Easy Pizza Pasta Bake Recipe
Introduction
Are you ready for a dish that combines two of your favorites? This easy pizza pasta bake is packed with cheesy goodness and zesty flavors, making it perfect for a family dinner or a fun night in. Get ready to dig into comfort food at its best!
Ingredients
- 1 pound raw penne pasta
- 3 cups marinara sauce (24 oz.)
- 10 ounces pepperoni slices
- 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F and position the oven rack in the top third of the oven to ensure even cooking and a nicely browned top.
- Step 2: Fill a large pot with water, add a generous amount of salt, and bring it to a boil. Cook the pasta 2 minutes less than the package directions to keep it slightly undercooked. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Stir in the marinara sauce and about one-third of the pepperoni slices.
- Step 3: Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly. Top with the grated mozzarella cheese and arrange the remaining pepperoni slices on top.
- Step 4: Bake the casserole uncovered for 20 minutes. Then switch the oven to broil and broil for a few minutes until the cheese and pepperoni are crispy and slightly browned. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Step 5: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, delicious pizza pasta bake!
Tips & Variations
- Try adding sliced black olives or chopped bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
- Substitute pepperoni with cooked sausage or ham for a different meat option.
- Use a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a richer taste.
- Make it vegetarian by leaving out the pepperoni and adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain the crispy top, or microwave on medium power if in a hurry, though the texture may soften.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like rigatoni, rotini, or fusilli will work well in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times if necessary.
Is it possible to make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
PrintEasy Pizza Pasta Bake Recipe
This easy pizza pasta bake combines the best of two beloved dishes: pizza and pasta. Featuring al dente penne pasta smothered in zesty marinara sauce, layered with pepperoni slices and melted mozzarella cheese, this comforting casserole is baked to bubbly perfection with a crispy, golden top. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it’s a simple, crowd-pleasing meal that satisfies your cravings for hearty, cheesy flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 1 pound raw penne pasta
- 3 cups marinara sauce (24 oz.)
Toppings
- 10 ounces pepperoni slices (divided)
- 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and place the oven rack in the top third position. This setup helps the dish cook evenly and develop a nicely golden top when broiling later.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook it for 2 minutes less than the package instructions to keep it slightly undercooked. Drain the pasta, return it to the pot, then stir in the marinara sauce and about one-third of the pepperoni slices to distribute the flavors evenly throughout.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the sauced pasta into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese uniformly over the pasta, then arrange the remaining pepperoni slices on top for an appetizing finish.
- Bake and Broil: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After baking, switch the oven setting to broil and broil for a few minutes until the pepperoni crisps and the cheese turns bubbly and golden brown. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the hot casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm for a delicious, cheesy pepperoni pasta bake that comforts and delights.
Notes
- Cooking pasta slightly underdone allows it to absorb more flavors during baking.
- Keep a close eye during broiling to prevent the cheese and pepperoni from burning.
- You can substitute pepperoni with cooked sausage or omit it for a vegetarian option.
- The casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking for convenience.
- Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture and richer flavor if preferred.
Keywords: pizza pasta bake, easy pasta bake, pepperoni pasta casserole, cheesy baked pasta, family dinner, comfort food
