Pepperoni Pizza Pasta Bake
A cozy and comforting dish combining the flavors of pizza with hearty pasta, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz Pasta (penne or rotini) Choose your favorite shape!
- 3 oz Pepperoni slices Feel free to use turkey or veggie options for a lighter twist.
- 2 cups Marinara sauce Organic varieties can enhance the flavor.
- 2 cups Mozzarella cheese Go for freshly shredded for ultimate meltiness.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Consider using nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning Dried basil and oregano work perfectly if you’re out.
- 1 tbsp Olive oil Avocado oil can be a great substitute.
Instructions
Preparation
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add in your pasta. Cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes, and drain.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella, Italian seasoning, and half of the pepperoni slices. Stir until well mixed.
- Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan evenly on top, then adorn with the rest of the pepperoni slices.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling beautifully.
- Let it settle for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
You can add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or fresh spinach for a healthy twist. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes! Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish inclusive. Experiment with a blend of cheeses like cheddar or gouda for enhanced depth.