Recipe: Pepperoni Pizza Baked Pasta
Ingredients
- Olive oil
for greasing the baking dish
- 1 pound dried rotini pasta
- 32 ounces marinara sauce
divided
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 4 ounces thinly sliced pepperoni
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
divided
Directions
- 1
Arrange a rack in the middle of the oven and heat to 400°F. Lightly coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil; set aside.
- 2
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook for 2 minutes less than suggested on package instructions until it's very al dente, as it will keep cooking when baked. Drain well.
- 3
Transfer the pasta to a large bowl. Add 3 cups of the sauce and oregano and stir until combined. Stir in the pepperoni.
- 4
Pour half of the pasta mixture in the prepared baking dish and spread into an even layer. Sprinkle with 1/2 of the cheese. Top with the remaining pasta. Spread the remaining sauce in an even layer over the pasta. Sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
- 5
Bake until the top is lightly golden and the cheese is bubbling, 20 to 25 minutes. Let cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
Recipe: Pepperoni Pizza Baked Pasta
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About this Recipe
Craving the comforting, familiar flavors of pizza and pasta rolled into one supremely satisfying dish? This Pepperoni Pizza Baked Pasta delivers on all fronts, bringing together cheesy goodness and robust Italian-American taste in a way that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe shines by combining classic elements – savory pepperoni, a rich marinara base, and plenty of gooey mozzarella – with the hearty texture of rotini pasta. The result is a substantial baked pasta that feels indulgent yet is straightforward to prepare, making it a perfect candidate for a comforting meal any night of the week.
What to Expect
Prepare for a wonderfully bubbly, golden-brown top layer that hints at the deliciousness within. As you delve in, you'll discover tender rotini pasta thoroughly coated in a vibrant marinara sauce, each bite offering that satisfying chew. The star, thinly sliced pepperoni, provides its signature salty, slightly spicy kick, perfectly complemented by generous stretches of melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a dish that embodies warmth and heartiness, ideal for gathering around the table and satisfying even the biggest appetites.
Customization & Variations
This Pepperoni Pizza Baked Pasta is wonderfully adaptable. For a meatier dish, consider adding cooked crumbled Italian sausage alongside the pepperoni, or for a vegetarian option, simply omit the pepperoni and stir in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. If rotini isn't on hand, other short pasta shapes like penne, ziti, or cavatappi will work beautifully.
Serving & Context
This comforting Pepperoni Pizza Baked Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a dish that's both easy and deeply satisfying. It's also a fantastic option for casual get-togethers, potlucks, or family dinners. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad and some warm garlic bread to complete a truly delightful meal.