If you’re on the lookout for a delightful dinner that combines cheesy goodness with the hearty satisfaction of pasta, look no further than this Pepperoni Pasta Bake! This dish is a perfect blend of flavors, with al dente pasta enveloped in rich marinara sauce, and creamy ricotta, and topped with gooey mozzarella and savory pepperoni. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a comforting meal for the family, this recipe delivers on taste and ease. Let’s dive into the deliciousness of this Pepperoni Pasta Bake!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Pepperoni Pasta Bake isn’t just your average pasta dish; it’s a comfort food masterpiece that brings together the best of pizza and pasta in one easy-to-make casserole. Here are a few reasons why this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen:
- Cheesy Goodness: With layers of ricotta and mozzarella cheese, every bite is an explosion of flavor and creaminess.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Kids and adults alike adore this dish, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
- Simple Preparation: The steps are straightforward, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or meal prep.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
Ingredients for Pepperoni Pasta Bake
To create this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta: These shapes hold onto the sauce well and create a delightful texture.
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce: A quality marinara sauce forms the base of the flavor in this recipe.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: This creamy cheese adds richness and a delightful texture.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs elevates the dish with classic Italian flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A little garlic goes a long way in enhancing the overall taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: This adds depth to the flavor without the hassle of chopping onions.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a bit of heat, these will add a nice kick.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey, melted cheese is essential for that classic pasta bake experience.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the other cheeses.
- 1 (6 oz) package pepperoni slices: These add a savory and slightly spicy element to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For greasing the baking dish and enhancing flavor.
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional): A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a pop of color and flavor.
Directions for Making Pepperoni Pasta Bake
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the steps to create this mouthwatering Pepperoni Pasta Bake.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s at a rolling boil, add the penne or rotini pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente—typically about 8-10 minutes. It’s essential not to overcook the pasta since it will continue to cook in the oven. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
While the pasta is cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the pasta until it’s bubbly and golden brown. Additionally, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir the mixture until it’s well blended and smooth. This cheesy filling will add creaminess and flavor to your pasta bake, making each bite utterly delicious.
Step 4: Assemble the Pasta Bake
Now it’s time to bring everything together! In the greased baking dish, combine the cooked pasta and marinara sauce. Stir the mixture until the pasta is evenly coated in sauce. Then, dollop the ricotta mixture over the top of the pasta and gently stir to distribute it throughout. The goal is to create a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Pepperoni
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta and sauce mixture. This layer will melt beautifully and create a gooey cheese pull when served. Next, layer half of the pepperoni slices over the mozzarella cheese. This will ensure that every bite has a delicious hint of pepperoni.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in, and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to start melting. After 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top, along with the rest of the pepperoni slices. Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the pepperoni is slightly crispy.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once the Pepperoni Pasta Bake is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This resting time allows the cheese to set a bit, making it easier to serve. Before serving, garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an added touch of flavor and color. Then, scoop out generous portions, and enjoy this cheesy delight!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional values per serving (1 serving):
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sodium: 600mg
This Pepperoni Pasta Bake provides a satisfying meal with a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fats, making it perfect for a hearty dinner.
Perfect Pairings for Pepperoni Pasta Bake
While this pasta bake is delicious on its own, serving it with the right sides can elevate your meal even further. Here are some ideas to complement your dish:
Side Dish Ideas
- Garlic Bread: A classic pairing with any pasta dish, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious marinara sauce.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add a healthy element to your meal while providing a colorful presentation.
Beverage Pairings
For beverages, consider serving iced tea or sparkling water for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pasta bake. If you prefer something warm, a nice cup of herbal tea can also work well.
Tips for Making the Best Pepperoni Pasta Bake
1. Customize Your Ingredients
This recipe is incredibly versatile! Feel free to swap out the pepperoni for other proteins like cooked sausage, grilled chicken, or even vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. You can tailor the dish to suit your family’s preferences.
2. Make It Ahead of Time
Want to prepare ahead? You can assemble the Pepperoni Pasta Bake in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you’re ready to cook, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
3. Store Leftovers Properly
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave or bake in the oven until warmed through.
4. Check the Pasta Cooking Time
Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook while baking. Overcooking the pasta initially can result in a mushy texture in the final dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for penne or rotini, feel free to experiment with other shapes like ziti, fusilli, or even macaroni. Just be mindful of the cooking time and ensure the pasta is cooked al dente.
Can I Freeze the Pepperoni Pasta Bake?
Yes, this dish freezes well! To freeze, assemble the pasta bake but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and follow the baking instructions.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can skip the pepperoni and add more vegetables or even use a meat substitute to create a delicious vegetarian version. Spinach, zucchini, and mushrooms are all great options!
How Do I Make It Spicier?
If you love heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the marinara sauce before mixing it with the pasta. You can also increase the amount of red pepper flakes for extra kick.
Conclusion
This Pepperoni Pasta Bake is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings everyone together around the dinner table. With its layers of cheese, flavorful sauce, and hearty pasta, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish promises to satisfy and delight.
Don’t forget to check out these other delicious recipes for more inspiration:
- Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
- Smoky BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole
- Creamy Chicken Smoked Sausage Alfredo Skillet
So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in this cheesy, delicious Pepperoni Pasta Bake. Enjoy every bite!
Print
Easy Pepperoni Pasta Bake – Cheesy Dinner Delight!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a cheesy, crowd-pleasing Pepperoni Pasta Bake that’s perfect for family dinners! This easy-to-make dish combines flavorful pasta, rich marinara, and layers of gooey cheese, making it a delightful meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 (6 oz) package pepperoni slices
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until well combined.
- Assemble the Pasta Bake: In the greased baking dish, combine the cooked pasta and marinara sauce, stirring to coat evenly. Dollop the ricotta mixture over the pasta and gently stir to distribute.
- Add Cheese and Pepperoni: Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella and all of the Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Layer half of the pepperoni slices over the cheese.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle remaining mozzarella, and arrange the remaining pepperoni slices on top. Bake uncovered for another 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
- You can substitute the pasta shape according to your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the recipe
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Pepperoni Pasta Bake, Cheesy Pasta Bake, Italian Pasta Casserole