Description
Looking for a comforting, family-friendly dinner idea that’s easy to prepare and absolutely delicious? This Pepperoni Pizza Casserole combines the best of both worlds — the gooey, cheesy goodness of pizza with the hearty satisfaction of baked pasta. Each bite is filled with tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and perfectly crispy pepperoni slices. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, feeding a crowd, or just craving a cozy meal, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite pizza toppings for a personal touch.
Ingredients
12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
3 cups marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
30–40 pepperoni slices
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, toss with olive oil, and set aside.
- Mix the Casserole Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with marinara sauce, half the mozzarella, and half the Parmesan cheese. Stir until well coated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the pasta mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Arrange pepperoni slices evenly over the surface, and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. For a crispier top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with garlic bread or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner