Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe
If you are craving a comforting, satisfying dinner that combines melty cheese, zesty pepperoni, and perfectly cooked pasta, this Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful meal that brings together the best flavors of an Italian classic, baked to golden, bubbly perfection. Whether you want an easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for friends and family, this dish delivers mouthwatering taste and heartwarming texture in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Sometimes the simplest ingredients are the most magical, especially in a pasta bake like this. Each item plays a crucial role, from the hearty pasta that provides structure, to the cheeses that add creamy richness, and the pepperoni slices for that signature savory kick.
- Rotini pasta, 8 ounces: Use rotini because its twists hold onto sauce and cheese beautifully.
- Ground beef, 1 pound: Adds meaty depth and a protein boost that makes this bake hearty and filling.
- Kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the dish.
- Pepper, 1/4 teaspoon: Gives a subtle warmth to balance the richness.
- Pepperoni slices, 1 cup (138 g): Brings a spicy, savory bite that is the heart of this recipe.
- Mozzarella cheese, 2 cups shredded, divided: Provides that irresistibly gooey, stretchy cheese factor.
- Mild cheddar cheese, 1 cup shredded: Adds a slightly sharp, creamy contrast to the mozzarella.
- Marinara sauce, 1 jar (24 ounces): Offers fresh, tangy tomato goodness that ties everything together.
- Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon: A perfect blend of herbs that brings a savory aroma and flavor.
How to Make Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Starting off is easy—preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This step ensures your pasta bake won’t stick and the oven will be just right for that perfect melt and bubble.
Step 2: Cook Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the ground beef seasoned with salt and pepper. Break it apart with a spoon while cooking, allowing it to brown nicely for about 8-10 minutes. Draining excess grease at this point helps keep the bake from becoming too oily but still juicy.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once the beef is cooked, it’s time to bring everything together. Toss the cooked pasta, pepperoni slices, half of the shredded mozzarella, cheddar cheese, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning right into the skillet. Stir everything gently but thoroughly so that all those flavors mingle beautifully before transferring the mixture to your baking dish.
Step 4: Add Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the surface of your pasta mixture. This will create a luscious, golden cheese crust during baking that everyone will adore.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly
Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese on top is melted, bubbling, and golden in spots. Let it rest a few minutes out of the oven before serving to allow everything to set slightly for perfect slices.
How to Serve Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like fresh chopped parsley or basil add a burst of color and a fresh herbal brightness that balances the richness and makes the presentation pop.
Side Dishes
This pasta bake pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, garlic bread, or even roasted veggies. They provide a lovely contrast and complement the hearty, cheesy main act perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving individual portions in small ramekins for a fun, personalized touch. You could also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the top for an unexpected flavor twist that guests will remember.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This makes it a fantastic option for next-day lunches or easy dinners when you’re short on time.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead, this pasta bake freezes beautifully. Store portions in freezer-safe containers or wrap the whole baking dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To bring leftovers back to life, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly again, usually about 20-25 minutes. Microwaving works for a quick fix but may result in less crispy cheese topping.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rotini is ideal for holding sauce, penne, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni would work well and offer a slightly different texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and pepperoni, and add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for amazing flavor and texture.
What’s the best cheese blend for this bake?
A mix of mozzarella and mild cheddar offers great meltability and flavor. Feel free to experiment with provolone or parmesan for a sharper edge.
How spicy is the Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe?
The spice level is mild to moderate, thanks to the savory pepperoni. If you like it spicier, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or switch to spicy pepperoni varieties.
Can I prepare the pasta bake in advance and bake later?
Yes, you can assemble the pasta bake ahead of time, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if the dish is cold from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table every single time. It’s an easy dish packed with flavor, perfect for busy nights or impressing guests without fuss. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own family favorite!
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Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A comforting and cheesy pepperoni pasta bake that combines cooked rotini pasta with seasoned ground beef, pepperoni slices, marinara sauce, and a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Baked to golden perfection, this hearty casserole makes a perfect weeknight dinner for the whole family.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces rotini pasta, cooked al dente according to package instructions, drained
Meat and Seasonings
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Cheeses
- 2 cups (226 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded, divided
- 1 cup (113 g) mild cheddar cheese, shredded
Other Ingredients
- 1 cup (138 g) pepperoni slices
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook ground beef: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until fully cooked and no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes. Drain off any excess grease from the skillet.
- Combine ingredients: To the skillet with the cooked beef, add the cooked rotini pasta, pepperoni slices, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together until well combined. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Be sure to drain excess grease from the cooked beef to prevent the dish from becoming too oily.
- Cook the pasta just until al dente to avoid mushy texture after baking.
- Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
