Description
This Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the best of pizza and pasta in one hearty casserole. With a gooey cheese topping, savory pepperoni, and aromatic Italian seasonings, this bake is a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta:
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheese and Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups sliced pepperoni
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking dish: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook pasta: Cook pasta in salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Combine pasta with sauce: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Add 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup Parmesan, and half of the pepperoni; stir well.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spread evenly. Top with remaining mozzarella, Parmesan, and pepperoni. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and serve: Let the bake rest for 5 minutes, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve.
Notes
- Use mini pepperoni or cut regular slices into halves for easier bites.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Can be assembled ahead and refrigerated until ready to bake.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
