Mexican Sloppy Joe Lasagna Casserole (Gluten-Free)

Ingredients

• 1 cup (113g) shredded cheddar cheese
• Additional chopped green onions, for garnishing
• 1 cup (227g) ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 green onions, trimmed and thinly sliced
• 2 tsp dried oregano leaves
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 6 to 8 oz (170g to 227g) penne pasta (gluten-free if needed)
• 1 lb (454g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, peeled and finely chopped
• 2 medium red bell peppers, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp taco seasoning mix (gluten-free if needed), about 1 packet
• 1/2 cup (118ml) water
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp oregano
• 2 cups (16 oz; 473ml)) tomato sauce

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Set a...: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Set a 9-inch square (2-1/2 qt; 23cm square or 2.37L) baking dish next to the stove and brush the interior with a little oil.

2. 2

   Cook the pasta according to package directions, pulling...: Cook the pasta according to package directions, pulling it out of the water just a little before done and rinsing with cold water. You want them to be al dente because they will finish cooking in the sauce while baking in the oven.

3. 3

   Make the Meat Layer: In a large saucepan,...: Make the Meat Layer: In a large saucepan, cook the beef over medium heat until no longer pink, breaking up clumps and drain. Add the onions and peppers and cook for 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the taco seasoning and water, bring to a boil, then cook over medium heat until thickened. Add the chili powder, cumin, and tomato sauce. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 5 to 10 minutes or until some of the liquid has evaporated and the sauce has thickened. Remove from the heat; stir in the cooked pasta.

4. 4

   Make the Cheese Layer: In a bowl, whisk...: Make the Cheese Layer: In a bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, Parmesan, green onions, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.

5. 5

   To Assemble: Spoon half of the meat/pasta mixture...: To Assemble: Spoon half of the meat/pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the ricotta mixture, smoothing it out to cover most of the first layer. And then spread the remaining meat over the top. Sprinkle the top with cheddar cheese.

6. 6

   Bake, uncovered, at 350°F (177°C) for 30 to...: Bake, uncovered, at 350°F (177°C) for 30 to 35 minutes or until bubbly and the cheese is melted. Remove from the oven and set aside for 10 minutes before cutting. Sprinkle the top with chopped green onions and serve.