Description
This Pepperoni Pizza Casserole combines all the flavors of a classic pepperoni pizza in a comforting pasta bake. With layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, gooey cheese, and crispy pepperoni, this dish is a family favorite for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta:
- 12 ounces rotini or penne pasta
Meat Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara or pizza sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Cheese and Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup mini or sliced pepperoni
- Chopped parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the meat sauce: In a skillet, heat olive oil, brown the ground beef, add garlic, pizza sauce, and Italian seasoning. Simmer and season with salt and pepper.
- Combine pasta and sauce: In a mixing bowl, mix cooked pasta and meat sauce. Add 1 cup of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Transfer to a baking dish.
- Top and bake: Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top, add pepperoni slices, and bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley or basil, and serve.
Notes
- You can add sliced black olives, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a veggie-packed version.
- Consider using turkey pepperoni or a plant-based alternative for a lighter dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
