Pepperoni Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of pizza and pasta into a hearty meal. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this casserole is layered with tender pasta, savory tomato sauce, gooey cheese, and plenty of spicy pepperoni. The blend of Italian herbs and spices enhances the dish’s flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser. This easy-to-make recipe can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) pasta (penne or rigatoni work well)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 oz sliced pepperoni
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add Marinara: Pour in the marinara sauce and add the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Assemble Casserole: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the sauce. Stir until the pasta is well coated.
- Layer Ingredients: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top, followed by half of the pepperoni slices. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, cheese, and pepperoni.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top layer. Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, then serve hot.
Enjoy your Pepperoni Casserole as a comforting main dish, perfect for sharing with family and friends!
