Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Pasta Bake
Everything you love about a loaded pepperoni pizza baked into one cozy, cheesy pasta casserole. Tender pasta, savory beef, rich pizza sauce, crispy pepperoni, and layers of bubbling mozzarella come together for the ultimate family-friendly comfort food.
Servings
6 servings
Ingredients
12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
1 cup pepperoni slices
2 cups pizza sauce or marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup diced onion
1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until just al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened.
Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
Stir in the pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Assemble the Pasta Bake
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce mixture.
Fold in half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, and half of the pepperoni slices.
Transfer everything into a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
Top with the remaining mozzarella, Parmesan, and pepperoni slices. Add olives if using.
4. Bake Until Bubbling
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden around the edges.
For extra crispy pepperoni, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
5. Garnish and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a fresh finish.
Delicious Serving Ideas
Serve this cheesy pizza pasta bake with:
Garlic bread
Caesar salad
Roasted vegetables
Ranch or marinara dipping sauce
Tips for the Best Pizza Pasta Bake
Use spicy Italian sausage for extra flavor.
Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or cooked bacon for a deluxe pizza version.
Swap mozzarella for a pizza cheese blend if desired.
Leftovers taste even better the next day.
This warm, cheesy casserole brings all the flavors of your favorite pepperoni pizza into one easy baked dinner everyone will ask for again and again.
