Description
Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
Ingredients:
12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or ziti)
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup pepperoni slices
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or oven-safe skillet. Spread the mixture evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Arrange the pepperoni slices on top.
4. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Notes:
This Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining the flavors of a classic pizza with the heartiness of pasta. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings!
#PizzaCasserole #CheesyGoodness
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a foolproof casserole. First, ensure your oven rack is in the center position and preheat to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, cook the pasta in well-salted water; this is your only chance to season the pasta itself. After draining, do not rinse the pasta, as the starch helps the sauce adhere. In your large mixing bowl, combine the hot pasta with the marinara, seasonings, and half the mozzarella immediately—the residual heat will begin to melt the cheese, creating a creamy base. When assembling, press the mixture firmly into the greased dish to prevent dry spots. For the topping, layer the cheeses first, then add the pepperoni. This protects the pepperoni from burning and allows the cheese to bubble through.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp, simple green salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a true pizza parlor experience, serve with garlic breadsticks or cheesy bread. A side of roasted vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers is also an excellent choice. For gatherings, consider setting out small bowls of optional toppings like red pepper flakes, extra Parmesan, or a drizzle of hot honey for guests to customize their plate.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Cook pasta al dente and mix with sauce, seasonings, and half the mozzarella. Spread in a baking dish, layer with remaining cheeses and pepperoni, and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What are the best pasta substitutes for a gluten-free version? Use a sturdy gluten-free pasta like brown rice penne or chickpea rotini. Ensure your marinara sauce is also certified gluten-free.
Can I use different meats? Absolutely. Cooked and crumbled Italian sausage, diced ham, or sliced meatballs are fantastic alternatives. For a lighter option, try seasoned ground turkey.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish, covered with foil, in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
My cheese is browning too quickly. What should I do? If the top is browning before the casserole is heated through, loosely tent the dish with aluminum foil for the remainder of the baking time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: Pasta will continue to cook in the oven. Using mushy pasta will result in a soggy final dish.
- Not greasing the baking dish: This can lead to difficult cleanup and stuck-on, scorched cheese around the edges.
- Using cold sauce straight from the jar: Mixing cold sauce with hot pasta can cool everything down, requiring a longer bake time. Let the sauce come to room temperature first.
- Skimping on seasoning: Taste the pasta-sauce mixture before assembling. You may need to add a pinch of salt or more Italian seasoning to boost flavor.
Conclusion
This Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is more than just a simple weeknight dinner; it’s a crowd-pleasing fusion of two beloved classics that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a perfectly cheesy, bubbly, and satisfying dish every time. It’s versatile, forgiving, and guaranteed to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the delicious, comforting results of this easy-to-make family favorite.