Craving pizza but want something different? This Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is the answer. Imagine tender pasta baked in a rich marinara sauce, layered with savory pepperoni, and blanketed in a blanket of gooey, melted mozzarella cheese. It's the comforting, crowd-pleasing mashup you never knew you needed. This recipe transforms classic pizza night flavors into a simple, satisfying, and unbelievably delicious baked dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a hungry crowd. Forget delivery—this easy-to-make casserole delivers all the flavor with none of the hassle.
Why You'll Love It
- Unbeatable Comfort Food: This casserole combines the best parts of pasta and pizza, creating a hearty and deeply satisfying meal that's pure comfort.
- Effortless to Make: With minimal prep and just a few simple ingredients, you can have this dish ready to bake in minutes. It's a lifesaver for those busy days.
- Crowd-Pleaser Guaranteed: Everyone from kids to adults will devour this. The familiar flavors of pizza make it an instant hit at any family dinner or potluck.
- Customizable: While the pepperoni is a star, this recipe is a great canvas for adding your favorite pizza toppings like bell peppers, mushrooms, or black olives.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This casserole tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or a quick lunch.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta (rotini or penne): The foundation of our casserole. These shapes are perfect for trapping the sauce and cheese in their nooks and crannies.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: Provides the rich, tomato base that gives this dish its classic "pizza" flavor. It binds all the ingredients together.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates that signature gooey, stretchy cheese pull we all love. It's the essential top layer that makes this a true casserole.
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni: Adds a salty, savory, and slightly spicy kick that defines the pizza experience. It's the star of the show.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the sauce a fragrant, authentic Italian flavor profile. It elevates the entire dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Used to season the pasta water and the final dish, ensuring all the flavors are balanced and bright.
Instructions
- Boil: Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain well using a colander and return to the pot.
- Combine: In the pot with the cooked pasta, add the marinara sauce, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, half of the sliced pepperoni, and the Italian seasoning. Use a large spoon to stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble: Pour the pasta mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and the rest of the pepperoni slices over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly. Use an oven mitt to carefully remove the dish from the oven.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes to set before serving. This makes it easier to cut and serve. Use a large serving spoon to scoop generous portions.
Pro Tips
- Upgrade Your Sauce: Use a high-quality marinara sauce for a richer, more complex flavor. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Don't Overcook the Pasta: Boil the pasta until it's just al dente. Since it will continue to cook in the oven, this prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Pre-Shred Your Cheese: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, shredding a block of whole milk mozzarella yourself will give you a better melt and a creamier texture.
- Crispy Pepperoni Edges: For extra-crispy pepperoni, arrange the slices on top of the cheese so they're exposed to the direct oven heat.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble the entire casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic Breadsticks: The classic partner for any pasta dish. Serve warm, buttery breadsticks for dipping into the sauce.
- Simple Green Salad: Cut the richness of the casserole with a light, crisp green salad tossed in a vinaigrette.
- Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed broccoli or asparagus adds a healthy element and a vibrant contrast.
- Extra Toppings: Set out bowls of chopped black olives, diced onions, or extra parmesan cheese for guests to customize their plates.
Conclusion
This Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is the perfect solution for anyone who wants a delicious, homemade meal without the fuss. It delivers all the beloved flavors of a classic pepperoni pizza in a simple, satisfying, and easy-to-clean-up baked dish. From the cheesy top layer to the hearty pasta base, every single bite is pure comfort. This recipe is destined to become a new family favorite, promising a stress-free dinner that tastes like a weekend treat. Say goodbye to complicated cooking and hello to the ultimate, crowd-pleasing casserole that you'll make again and again.