If you’re searching for a truly comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner, look no further than this Pepperoni Pasta Bake. It’s a bubbly, cheesy casserole packed with all the flavors of your favorite pizzeria, but with the heartiness of a homemade pasta dish. Layered with saucy pasta, gooey cheese, and crispy edges of pepperoni, it’s the ultimate fusion of two comfort food classics. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a meal that reheats beautifully, this Pepperoni Pasta Bake is about to become your new weeknight staple.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Pepperoni Pasta Bake so irresistible is how each ingredient brings something special to the table. These simple, everyday staples come together to create a dish that’s rich in flavor, texture, and color — making every bite as satisfying as the last.
- Pasta (12 oz penne or rigatoni): Choose a sturdy pasta that holds up to baking and soaks up all that savory sauce.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds depth and helps sauté the aromatics for a flavorful base.
- Onion (1 small, finely chopped): Provides a natural sweetness and a subtle crunch to the sauce.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Brings that irresistible, savory aroma that defines classic Italian-inspired dishes.
- Marinara or pasta sauce (24 oz jar): This is the heart of the dish, so choose a sauce you love!
- Dried oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Lends an earthy, herbal note that makes the sauce sing.
- Dried basil (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sauce with its sweet and slightly peppery flavor.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Adds a gentle kick for those who like a little heat.
- Mozzarella cheese (1 1/2 cups, shredded, divided): Delivers that gooey, melty goodness everyone craves in a pasta bake.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Gives the bake a nutty, salty lift and a little extra richness.
- Pepperoni slices (20–25): The star topping, crisping up beautifully in the oven with loads of flavor.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning every layer just right.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a pop of color and freshness for a beautiful finish.
How to Make Pepperoni Pasta Bake
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne or rigatoni according to the package instructions until just al dente. Remember, the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, so you want it slightly firm. Once it’s ready, drain and set aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened and translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute, just until fragrant — this little step makes a world of difference in flavor!
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in your favorite jar of marinara or pasta sauce, then add the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, which allows the flavors to meld and deepen. Once it tastes just right, season with salt and black pepper as needed.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Cheese
Grab a large mixing bowl and toss the cooked pasta with your simmered sauce. Add 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until everything is evenly coated and deliciously cheesy. This ensures every bite of your Pepperoni Pasta Bake is full of flavor.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top, then layer the pepperoni slices evenly so each portion gets plenty. Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges. If you like your pepperoni extra crispy, broil for an additional minute or two at the end — just keep an eye on it!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let your Pepperoni Pasta Bake rest for a couple of minutes. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness, then serve warm. Get ready for happy faces all around!
How to Serve Pepperoni Pasta Bake
Garnishes
For a picture-perfect finish, sprinkle your Pepperoni Pasta Bake with freshly chopped parsley or basil. A dusting of extra Parmesan never hurts, and a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick for spice lovers. These little touches brighten the dish and make it feel restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad tossed in vinaigrette, or some garlicky roasted vegetables. Don’t forget a basket of warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up every last bit of that cheesy, saucy goodness — it’s the ultimate comfort food combo!
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try baking your Pepperoni Pasta Bake in individual ramekins for personalized servings at a dinner party. You can also scoop it into hollowed-out bell peppers before baking for a colorful, veggie-packed presentation. Or, serve in a deep dish and top with extra pepperoni roses for a show-stopping centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Pepperoni Pasta Bake keeps like a dream! Simply let it cool to room temperature, then cover tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days — perfect for easy lunches or a no-fuss dinner later in the week.
Freezing
Want to prep ahead? Assemble the unbaked casserole, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed, adding an extra 10 minutes if needed. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze!
Reheating
To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until heated through. For single servings, the microwave works well too — just heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between. If the pasta looks a bit dry, add a splash of marinara or water before reheating to revive that saucy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While penne and rigatoni are classic choices because they hold sauce well, you can use ziti, fusilli, or even shells. Just stick to similarly sized, sturdy shapes for the best results.
What’s the best way to make this dish vegetarian?
Simply swap in your favorite plant-based pepperoni or omit it altogether. You can also add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the sauce to bulk up the veggies and flavor.
Can I add meat to the sauce for a heartier casserole?
Definitely! Brown some ground beef, turkey, or Italian sausage with the onions before adding the garlic and sauce. This will make your Pepperoni Pasta Bake extra filling and packed with protein.
How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Be sure to cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to soften while baking. Avoid overcooking during the boiling step and it’ll hold its shape perfectly in the casserole.
Can I make this Pepperoni Pasta Bake ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate it, unbaked. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a cozy, fuss-free dinner that brings everyone to the table with smiles, this Pepperoni Pasta Bake is the answer. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and pure comfort in every bite. Give it a try — your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!
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Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Pepperoni Pasta Bake is a comforting, cheesy casserole perfect for easy weeknight dinners. Featuring al dente pasta baked in a flavorful marinara sauce with mozzarella, Parmesan, and plenty of pepperoni, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both filling and delicious. The dish is simple to prepare, reheats well, and can be customized with additional proteins or lighter pepperoni options for a versatile meal.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or pasta sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Cheese and Toppings
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 20–25 slices of pepperoni
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Simmer Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet and stir in dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 5–7 minutes to develop flavors. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the prepared sauce, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly. Pour the pasta mixture evenly into the dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese on top, then evenly layer the pepperoni slices over the cheese.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty, cheesy pepperoni pasta bake.
Notes
- You can add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the sauce for extra protein and heartiness.
- For a lighter option, substitute regular pepperoni with turkey pepperoni or veggie pepperoni.
- This pasta bake reheats well, making it an excellent dish for meal prep and leftovers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 790mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
