Description
Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish that combines all the flavors of a classic pizza in a hearty, baked pasta format. Loaded with gooey mozzarella cheese, spicy pepperoni, and rich marinara sauce layered over perfectly cooked pasta, this casserole offers a satisfying, cheesy bite every time. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and makes excellent leftovers, making it perfect for busy weeknights or fun gatherings. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner recipe, something special for a potluck, or just a new twist on pizza night, this dish is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz Rigatoni or Penne Pasta (cooked al dente)
- 3 cups Marinara Sauce
- 3 cups Mozzarella Cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
- 6 oz Pepperoni Slices
- 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley or Basil, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 tsp Dried Oregano
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cup Sliced Mushrooms
- 1/2 cup Bell Peppers, diced
- 1/2 cup Black Olives, sliced
Instructions
- Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella cheese, and all of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly into the baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese and pepperoni slices.
- Add the remaining pasta mixture, followed by another layer of mozzarella cheese and pepperoni.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs and dried oregano if desired.