1️⃣ Preheat & Prep: Set your oven to 375°F and get that pasta water boiling! Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, then drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl.

2️⃣ Make the Sausage Meatballs: While the pasta cooks, grab a medium bowl and mix together the Italian sausage, Italian seasoning, black pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Roll into mini meatballs using a ½ tablespoon-sized scoop.

3️⃣ Cook the Meatballs: Heat a frying pan over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil, and swirl to coat. Drop in the mini meatballs and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. (Sometimes I toss in some finely diced onion for extra flavor—highly recommend!)

4️⃣ Assemble the Dish: Add half of the cooked meatballs to the spaghetti along with half of the mini pepperoni. Stir in mozzarella and parmesan (if using—I always throw in an extra ¼ cup of parm because, well, cheese). Pour in your favorite marinara or pasta sauce and mix everything together until well combined.

5️⃣ Bake It: Transfer the spaghetti mixture to a casserole dish and top with the remaining mozzarella, parmesan, meatballs, and pepperoni. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and beautifully golden brown.

6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy! Dig in while it’s hot and gooey—preferably with some garlic bread on the side. 😍