Print

Pepperoni Pizza Pasta Bake

Pepperoni Pizza Pasta Bake
Print Recipe

Pepperoni Pizza Pasta Bake is a quick, cozy, and family-friendly dinner that combines classic pizza flavors with tender pasta and loads of melty cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this hearty bake brings the irresistible taste of pepperoni pizza to a comforting, easy-to-make casserole everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta

Protein & Vegetables

  • 1 cup sliced pepperoni
  • Optional: 1 cup diced bell peppers or sliced mushrooms

Sauce & Seasoning

  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Cheese

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling the penne pasta in salted water until just al dente, meaning it should still have a slight firmness as it will cook further in the oven. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Sauce Mixture: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic and diced onions until fragrant and translucent. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, allowing the mixture to simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
  3. Combine Pasta, Pepperoni, and Sauce: Transfer the cooked pasta into a large mixing bowl. Add the simmered sauce, sliced pepperoni, and any optional vegetables. Toss gently to combine everything evenly.
  4. Layer the Bake: Pour half of the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Add the remaining pasta on top and finish with a final layer of cheese.
  5. Bake Until Bubbly and Golden: Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the pasta; keep it al dente as it will soften during baking.
  • Use freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for best melting and flavor.
  • Layer cheese between pasta layers to keep the bake creamy and evenly cheesy.
  • Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to set and cool slightly before serving.
  • Customize spice level by adjusting the amount of pepperoni or adding chili flakes.

Nutrition

Keywords: pepperoni pizza pasta bake, pizza pasta casserole, family dinner, easy pasta bake, cheesy pasta

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/pepperoni-pizza-pasta-bake/