Pepperoni Pizza Casserole Recipe
Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a fun, comforting dish that combines all the flavors of a classic pepperoni pizza into a cheesy, hearty casserole. This easy-to-make casserole features pasta, pepperoni, marinara sauce, and plenty of melted cheese, bringing the best of pizza and pasta together in one dish. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights, parties, or family gatherings, and it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.
What makes this recipe so great is its simplicity and versatility. You only need a few pantry staples like pasta, marinara sauce, and pepperoni, which makes it an affordable and quick meal option. The casserole is rich and cheesy, with a generous layer of melted mozzarella on top and pepperoni scattered throughout, just like a pizza. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable — you can add your favorite pizza toppings or make it a bit lighter by using whole wheat pasta or reduced-fat cheese. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for pizza lovers looking for something a little different.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings
Why You Will Love This Recipe
1. Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
2. Customizable: The ingredients can be tailored to your liking by adding extra vegetables, proteins, or even swapping the dressing for a lighter option.
3. Perfect for Potlucks: Its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors make it an ideal choice for picnics, barbecues, or potluck parties.
4. Hearty but Light: While it’s filling and satisfying, the salad isn’t heavy, making it a great dish for warmer weather or lighter meals.
5. Make-Ahead Friendly: The salad holds up well in the fridge, allowing you to prepare it ahead of time, saving you time when you’re ready to serve.
Ingredients Notes
– Pasta: Most types of pasta work well in this recipe, but rotini, penne, or ziti are ideal because their shape holds the sauce and cheese well. Feel free to use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta if you prefer.
– Pepperoni: Regular or mini pepperoni slices can be used. If you prefer, you can substitute with turkey pepperoni or even other deli meats like salami or sausage.
– Marinara Sauce: A good quality marinara sauce will enhance the flavor of the casserole. You can also use pizza sauce or homemade tomato sauce if you prefer.
– Cheese: Mozzarella is the go-to cheese for this dish, but feel free to mix in some parmesan or cheddar for added flavor. For a creamier texture, you could also incorporate ricotta cheese or cream cheese.
– Seasonings: Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes can add extra depth of flavor to the casserole. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste.
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or lightly oil it to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the casserole mix: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the pepperoni, and seasonings like Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Stir to combine.
4. Assemble the casserole: Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and the rest of the pepperoni slices.
5. Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you prefer a crispier top, broil it for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of the baking time.
6. Serve: Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and enjoy!
Storage Options
Pepperoni Pizza Casserole stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To store, allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven (covered with foil) until heated through. If you have leftovers, they make a great lunch or quick dinner the next day.
For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2-3 months. To freeze, wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to eat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-30 minutes until heated through.
Variations and Substitutions
– Vegetarian Version: Skip the pepperoni and add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, and onions for a veggie-packed version of this casserole.
– Meat Lover’s: For a heartier dish, you can add cooked ground beef, sausage, or even bacon to the casserole for extra flavor.
– Spicy: Add jalapeños, banana peppers, or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
– Cheese Variations: Mix up the cheeses by using a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan for different flavor profiles.
– Healthier Option: Use whole wheat pasta, reduced-fat cheese, and turkey pepperoni to make the casserole a bit lighter without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion
Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a deliciously cheesy and comforting meal that’s perfect for busy nights, family dinners, or casual gatherings. With simple ingredients, minimal prep, and all the flavors of pizza baked into a satisfying casserole, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Whether you stick with the classic pepperoni or try different variations, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser!