Pepperoni Pizza Pasta Bake

Introduction

If your family loves pizza and pasta, this Pepperoni Pizza Pasta Bake combines the best of both! Tender pasta is tossed in a rich meat sauce, topped with plenty of mozzarella cheese and crispy pepperoni, then baked until bubbly and golden. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that’s also perfect for making ahead and freezing.

Ingredients

• 1 pound elbow macaroni or rotini
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 24 ounces marinara or pizza sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 ounces sliced pepperoni
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or two small foil pans.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until the beef is browned. Drain any excess grease.
4. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
5. Add the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Mix the cooked pasta into the sauce until evenly coated.
7. Spread half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella.
8. Add the remaining pasta, then top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
9. Arrange the pepperoni slices over the top.
10. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling. For crispier pepperoni, broil for 2–3 minutes.
11. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Freezer Instructions

• Assemble the casserole but do not bake.
• Wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed, adding 10–15 minutes if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6–8