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Easy Pizza Pasta Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 53 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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

Find it online: https://lucabites.com/easy-pizza-pasta-bake-recipe/