If you love an easy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying dinner that everyone will beg for again and again, this Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe is your new best friend. Picture al dente penne swirled in a luscious blend of creamy marinara and melted mozzarella, punctuated with spicy slices of pepperoni that add just the right kick and a golden, bubbly cheese topping that makes every bite heavenly. It’s cozy, crowd-pleasing, and comes together with simple ingredients that pack big flavor, perfect for a weeknight meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the key to pulling off this delicious Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe. Each element plays a special role—from creamy richness and tangy tomato goodness to that irresistible pepperoni punch and golden cheesy crust.
- 12 oz penne pasta: The perfect sturdy pasta that holds sauce and cheese beautifully without getting mushy.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: Adds a rich tomato base with a touch of sweetness and herbs.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Brings creamy smoothness that balances the acidity of the tomato.
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly to create that irresistible gooey texture.
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni: Provides spicy, savory bites that make this dish stand out.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that crisps up on the top layer.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Elevates the dish with fragrant herbs like oregano and basil.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Infuses a subtle depth of flavor without overpowering the other tastes.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle hint of heat for balance.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Used to gently cook the sauce ingredients and add richness.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Provides a fresh, vibrant touch to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, meaning it’s cooked through but still has a little firmness. This will ensure your bake holds its shape and doesn’t become mushy. Once cooked, drain well and set aside—it’s ready to soak up all those rich, saucy flavors coming next.
Step 2: Simmer the Creamy Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, gently warm the olive oil before stirring in the marinara sauce, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Let this blend come to a gentle simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until everything melds together into a luscious and fragrant sauce that’s creamy, tangy, and perfectly seasoned.
Step 3: Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Cheese
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss thoroughly to coat every piece. Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and half of the pepperoni slices so that they melt slightly and infuse their spicy flavor into the sauce. This mix ensures every bite bursts with cheesy, pepperoni goodness.
Step 4: Assemble in the Baking Dish and Layer Toppings
Transfer your tantalizing pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Now comes the best part: topping it with the remaining mozzarella, the rest of the pepperoni slices, and finishing with the grated Parmesan cheese. This layering creates that irresistible golden crust and an extra punch of spice on top.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden
Pop the dish into a 375°F oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is beautifully bubbly and golden brown. Let the pasta bake rest for 5 minutes after taking it out—it allows everything to set slightly and enhances the flavors so they really shine on your plate.
How to Serve Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling some freshly chopped parsley over your Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe adds a bright pop of color and a hint of freshness that contrasts perfectly with the rich, cheesy flavors. You could also add extra grated Parmesan or a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil to amp up the presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
This pasta bake pairs beautifully with crisp green salads featuring tangy vinaigrettes to cut through the richness. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread with a crunchy crust also complement the meal, making it a balanced and satisfying feast for you and your loved ones.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe in individual ramekins or layered in clear glass dishes to show off the cheesy layers. You could also try adding colorful bell peppers or sliced mushrooms inside the bake for extra texture and visual appeal, turning it into a customizable pasta dinner masterpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Pepperoni Pasta Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy nights when you want your dinner ready to go with minimal effort.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully. Just assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil or a lid, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual for a comforting meal anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the pasta bake in a 350°F oven until warmed through and the cheese is melty again, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, a microwave works well for individual portions, just cover loosely to keep moisture in and avoid drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne works great, rigatoni, ziti, or even fusilli will hold the sauce well and deliver that comforting texture you want in a baked pasta dish.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply swap the pepperoni for plant-based alternatives or add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to keep it hearty and flavorful without the meat.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Definitely. The sauce can be made a day in advance and refrigerated. Just warm it gently before combining it with the pasta to keep all the flavors fresh and vibrant.
What if I don’t have heavy cream on hand?
You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of butter to mimic the richness, though the sauce might be slightly less creamy but still delicious.
How spicy is the pepperoni in this recipe?
Pepperoni offers a mild kick that’s balanced by the creamy tomato sauce and cheese, so it’s flavorful without being overwhelmingly spicy—easy for most palates to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
This Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe is a warm, cheesy hug in a dish that’s easy to make and sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a hearty, comforting dinner, it delivers pure satisfaction in every bite. Give it a try and watch it quickly turn into your go-to pasta comfort food.
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Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This Pepperoni Pasta Bake is a comforting and cheesy American classic that’s perfect for an easy weeknight dinner. Featuring al dente penne pasta baked with a creamy marinara sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan, and plenty of spicy pepperoni, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s satisfying and flavorful.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Cheese and Toppings
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni (divided)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the pasta dish later.
- Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare the sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinara sauce, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cooking for 2–3 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to fully coat it with the creamy marinara sauce. Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and half of the sliced pepperoni to incorporate them evenly.
- Assemble the bake: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly top with the remaining mozzarella cheese, the remaining pepperoni slices, and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and garnish: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey pepperoni or plant-based alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version.
- Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra vegetables and nutrition.
- Use a mix of mozzarella and provolone for a different cheesy flavor.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta initially as it will continue cooking in the oven.
