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Pepperoni Pasta Bake

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A hearty, pizza-inspired pasta casserole loaded with pasta, marinara, pepperoni, and melty cheese, baked until bubbly and golden.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz (340 g) short pasta (penne or rotini)
  • 3 cups marinara or pizza-style sauce
  • 1.5 cups sliced pepperoni
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
  2. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until just under al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, then add garlic and cook 1 minute. Stir in Italian seasoning if using.
  4. Pour in marinara sauce and warm through.
  5. Combine cooked pasta with most of the sauce and 2/3 of the pepperoni in a large bowl.
  6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly.
  7. Sprinkle 2/3 of the mozzarella on top, then add remaining sauce and lightly swirl for a marbled effect.
  8. Top with remaining mozzarella, pepperoni, and Parmesan.
  9. Bake uncovered for 20–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  10. Broil for 1–3 minutes if desired to crisp the pepperoni, watching closely.
  11. Rest 5–10 minutes, garnish with basil, and serve.

Notes

  • Add vegetables like mushrooms, peppers, or spinach for extra flavor.
  • Use tortellini or rigatoni for texture variation.
  • For a creamier bake, mix cream cheese into the sauce.
  • Swap pepperoni for vegetarian alternatives for a meatless version.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/pepperoni-pasta-bake/