Get ready to meet your new weeknight hero: the Pepperoni Pizza Casserole! This recipe is the ultimate comfort food mashup, combining the irresistible flavors of a classic pepperoni pizza with the hearty, satisfying nature of a baked pasta dish. We’re talking tender pasta tossed in a rich marinara sauce, layered with creamy ricotta, melted mozzarella, and, of course, plenty of savory pepperoni. It’s a one-dish wonder that brings the whole family running to the table.
If you’re looking for a simple, crowd-pleasing meal that guarantees empty plates and happy faces, this is it. It requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor, making it the perfect solution for those busy evenings when you need a delicious dinner on the table fast.
Why This Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a Weeknight Winner
This isn’t just another casserole; it’s a game-changer for your dinner rotation. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
- Incredibly Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can master this dish. Just boil pasta, mix, layer, and bake!
- Family-Friendly Flavor: It has all the familiar, beloved flavors of pepperoni pizza, making it an instant hit with both kids and adults.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This casserole is a dream for making ahead. Assemble it when you have time and bake it right before dinner for a stress-free meal.
- Customizable: Think of this recipe as a base. You can easily add your favorite pizza toppings like mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers to make it your own.
Key Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple, easy-to-find ingredients that come together for a truly spectacular dish.
- Pasta: A short, sturdy pasta like rotini, penne, or ziti works best. They are perfect for catching all the delicious sauce.
- Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred marinara sauce to save time, or a simple homemade version if you prefer.
- Ricotta Cheese: This adds a wonderful creamy texture that balances the tangy sauce.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella will give you that perfect, gooey cheese pull.
- Pepperoni: The star of the show! Use classic sliced pepperoni, or grab some mini pepperonis for more flavor in every bite.
- Seasoning: A simple mix of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of red pepper flakes elevates the pizza flavor.
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making this cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is as easy as 1-2-3. Follow these simple steps for a perfect bake every time.
- Cook the Pasta: Start by cooking your chosen pasta according to package directions until it’s al dente. You want it to have a slight bite, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, half of the pepperoni slices, and half of the mozzarella cheese. In a separate, smaller bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with the Italian seasoning and garlic powder.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread half of the pasta mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Dollop the ricotta mixture evenly over the top. Add the remaining pasta mixture, spreading it into an even layer.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top and arrange the rest of the pepperoni slices. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Pro Tips for the Best Casserole
Want to take your casserole from great to absolutely amazing? Keep these simple tips in mind.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking the pasta to al dente is crucial. It will absorb sauce and continue to soften as it bakes, so starting with slightly undercooked pasta prevents a mushy result.
- Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly. For the ultimate gooey, cheesy topping, buy a block of mozzarella and shred it yourself.
- Let it Rest: After pulling the casserole out of the oven, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set up, making it much easier to slice and serve without falling apart.
Fun Variations to Try
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Supreme Pizza Casserole: Add cooked Italian sausage, sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions for a “supreme” version.
- Meat Lover’s Dream: Mix in cooked ground beef, crumbled bacon, and diced ham along with the pepperoni.
- Veggie-Packed: For a vegetarian twist that’s just as delicious, try our vegetarian baked ziti. Or, simply load this casserole with sautéed spinach, zucchini, and black olives.
What to Serve with Your Casserole
This Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a fantastic all-in-one meal, but it also pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides. A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast. For a truly classic pairing, serve it with some warm homemade garlic knots to sop up any extra sauce. Steamed broccoli or green beans are also excellent choices for adding a bit of green to the plate.
Make-Ahead & Storage Guide
This dish is perfect for planning ahead. You can assemble the entire casserole without baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven, adding about 10 minutes to the baking time.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, this casserole freezes well. For best results, assemble but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with a layer of plastic wrap and then a layer of aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
Yes, absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking it from cold.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or place the casserole back in an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
This recipe is very versatile! Try adding cooked Italian sausage, sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or black olives for a ‘supreme’ version. You can also swap the pasta for a low-carb alternative like zucchini noodles, though baking time may vary.
This casserole is a hearty meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables like broccoli, or a side of warm garlic bread to complete the meal.
More Easy Dinner Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this simple and delicious Pepperoni Pizza Casserole, you are sure to love some of our other family-favorite casserole dishes like our famous Chicken Bacon Ranch Spaghetti Bake. We hope this recipe becomes a staple in your home. Be sure to share your creations and tag us on Pinterest!
Pepperoni Pizza Casserole Recipe
Pepperoni Pizza Casserole (Easy, Cheesy, & Kid-Approved!)
Ingredients
Equipment
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
- In a small bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and optional red pepper flakes.
- In a large bowl, combine the drained pasta, marinara sauce, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the pepperoni slices. Stir until everything is well coated.
- Spread half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Drop spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta layer.
- Top with the remaining pasta mixture and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top and arrange the remaining pepperoni slices.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before garnishing with fresh basil and serving.
Notes
Don't overcook the pasta initially, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Al dente is perfect.
Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings like cooked sausage, mushrooms, or black olives.
