Easy Pepperoni Pizza Pasta: A Comforting Family Dinner
The aroma of bubbling cheese and tangy tomato sauce fills the air, wrapping around you like a warm hug. Picture yourself on a cozy evening, laughter echoing around the kitchen as the kids play nearby, eagerly awaiting dinner. With each bite of this Easy Pepperoni Pizza Pasta, memories of simpler times flood back, as if every forkful carries a story. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of togetherness and the little joys found in shared moments.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Easy Pepperoni Pizza Pasta is the perfect blend of familiarity and comfort. Here’s why you’ll want to add it to your weeknight menu:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Family Appeal: With its cheesy goodness and pepperoni, it satisfies even the pickiest eaters.
- Versatile Dish: Suitable for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering.
- Nutritious Twist: You can easily sneak in veggies, making it a healthier option without sacrificing taste.
- Make Ahead: This dish stores well, which means leftovers can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner the next day.
Ingredients with Notes
Gathering the perfect ingredients is essential for the best flavor. Here’s what you’ll need for this Easy Pepperoni Pizza Pasta:
- 8 oz. pasta (any short shape, but penne or rotini work best)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced; feel free to use fresh for a flavor boost)
- 1 can (15 oz.) crushed tomatoes (look for high-quality canned tomatoes or make your own)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (adds that classic pizza flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded; the ooey-gooeyness is key!)
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices (you can substitute turkey pepperoni for a healthier option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, offers a burst of freshness)
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
This Easy Pepperoni Pizza Pasta is a quick family meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, yet the flavors are rich and satisfying.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. About two minutes before it’s done, reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the rest. Set the pasta aside.
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Sauté Garlic: In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it; you want this to lightly golden.
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Make the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce thickening here, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
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Combine Ingredients: Lower the heat and add the cooked pasta to the sauce. Pour in a bit of reserved pasta water if needed to achieve your desired consistency. Stir well to coat all the pasta with the delicious sauce.
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Add Cheese and Pepperoni: Sprinkle in half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the pepperoni slices, mixing everything together until the cheese is melted and gooey.
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Transfer and Top: Pour the pasta mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese and pepperoni on top.
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Broil: Turn your oven to broil and place the baking dish inside for about 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. Keep an eye on it, as broilers can vary, and you don’t want it to burn!
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Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and enjoy your Easy Pepperoni Pizza Pasta warm.
Tips and Variations
- Vegetable Boost: Toss in cooked spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for additional nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese Lovers: Experiment with a blend of cheeses, such as cheddar or provolone, for a richer taste.
- Spice It Up: Add cooked sausage or even diced jalapeños for those who like a kick.
- Pasta Swap: Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can easily be substituted to suit dietary needs.
Serving Ideas
This dish shines brightly on busy weeknights but is also perfect for gatherings, game nights, or a cozy date night in. Pair it with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy it alongside a glass of red wine or sparkling water to cleanse the palate. The vibrant colors and fragrant herbs will add a festive touch to your table.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This Easy Pepperoni Pizza Pasta also freezes beautifully—just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F until warmed through, adding a splash of water or more cheese to keep it moist and delicious.
Chef’s Pro Tips
- Rest the Dish: Let your Easy Pepperoni Pizza Pasta rest for a few minutes after coming out of the oven; this allows the flavors to meld perfectly.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality pasta can transform the dish; always opt for the best ingredients you can find.
- Experiment with Cheese: Mixing different types of cheese can enhance the depth of flavor; try adding a sprinkle of Parmesan.
FAQs
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Can I make this a vegetarian dish?
Absolutely! Simply omit the pepperoni or replace it with a plant-based alternative. -
What other types of pasta can I use?
Short pastas like fusilli, farfalle, or even whole grain options work wonderfully in this dish. -
How do I reheat leftovers?
For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave, adding a little water to prevent it from drying out. -
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare everything ahead of time and bake it just before serving. -
What can I serve it with?
A fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables are great accompaniments.
Conclusion
There’s something incredibly heartwarming about sharing a meal that brings people together. This Easy Pepperoni Pizza Pasta is one of those dishes that feels like home, capturing the essence of family and tradition with every bite. It’s a comfort food classic that invites laughter and conversation around the table. So grab your loved ones, dive into this delightful recipe, and savor the happiness it brings. We all need a little indulgence in our lives, and this pasta dish is the perfect way to find it. Enjoy!
Contents
Easy Pepperoni Pizza Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 8 oz. pasta (any short shape, but penne or rotini work best)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced; feel free to use fresh for a flavor boost)
- 1 can (15 oz.) crushed tomatoes (look for high-quality canned tomatoes or make your own)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (adds that classic pizza flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded; the ooey-gooeyness is key!)
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices (you can substitute turkey pepperoni for a healthier option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, offers a burst of freshness)
Instructions
Cooking Preparation
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. About two minutes before it’s done, reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the rest. Set the pasta aside.
- In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it; you want this to lightly golden.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce thickening here, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
- Lower the heat and add the cooked pasta to the sauce. Pour in a bit of reserved pasta water if needed to achieve your desired consistency. Stir well to coat all the pasta with the delicious sauce.
- Sprinkle in half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the pepperoni slices, mixing everything together until the cheese is melted and gooey.
- Pour the pasta mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese and pepperoni on top.
- Turn your oven to broil and place the baking dish inside for about 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. Keep an eye on it, as broilers can vary, and you don’t want it to burn!
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and enjoy your Easy Pepperoni Pizza Pasta warm.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.
📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest