Pepperoni Pasta Bake

Imagine coming home after a long day to the intoxicating aroma of bubbling cheese and savory pepperoni wafting from your kitchen. That's the magic of a Pepperoni Pasta Bake. This dish combines the best of two beloved comfort foods—pizza and pasta—into one scrumptious casserole that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Jump to:

• Pepperoni Pasta Bake
• 📖Printable Recipe:
• Pepperoni Pasta Bake
• 📋Ingredients
• 🔪How Do I Make It?
• 🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?
• ⏲️Chef's Tip
• 💭Frequently Asked Questions
• 🥘More Easy Casseroles

Pepperoni Pasta Bake

🎥Video Recipe:

📖Printable Recipe:

📋Ingredients

• 1 white onion, chopped
• 1 tbe tomato paste
• 1 can (400g/14oz) tomato sauce
• ¾ cup chicken stock
• 1 cup mozzarella, shredded
• 1 ball fresh mozzarella, sliced
• ⅔ cup sliced pepperoni (+more for the topping)
• ⅓ cup sliced black olives (+ more for serving)
• 300 g (10 oz) pasta
• salt and pepper to taste
• fresh basil for serving
• 1 bell pepper
• 2 cloves of garlic

🔪How Do I Make It?

Preheat the oven to 190C/375F.

Heat up a skillet with some olive oil and saute onions and bell peppers for 10 minutes. Add tomato paste and garlic, cook for 1 minute. Add pepperoni slices, cook for 5 minutes.

Mix in olives, tomato sauce and chicken stock. Bring the sauce to a boil, cook for 5 minutes.

Cook pasta in a large pot of salted water for 3-4 minutes. Drain.

Mix pasta with tomato sauce and ½ cup shredded mozzarella. 

Transfer the pasta into a baking dish, top with shredded mozzarella, sliced mozzarella and some pepperoni slices. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Serve topped with some olives and fresh basil.

🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?

Fresh Green Salad

A crisp, fresh green salad is the perfect complement to this hearty dish. Think mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. The acidity from the salad dressing balances the richness of the pasta bake.

Garlic Bread

Nothing goes better with a pasta dish than warm, buttery garlic bread. Use a baguette or ciabatta, slather on some garlic butter, and toast it to golden perfection. The crunchy exterior and soft interior make it a delightful side.

Steamed Vegetables

For a lighter option, steamed vegetables such as broccoli, green beans, or asparagus work wonderfully. They add a nutritious component to your meal without overpowering the bold flavors of the pasta bake.

⏲️Chef's Tip

Choose Quality Ingredients

The quality of your ingredients can make or break your dish. Opt for high-quality pepperoni and cheeses, and use fresh vegetables whenever possible. Trust us; you’ll taste the difference.

Don’t Overcook the Pasta

Undercook your pasta by a few minutes before baking. This prevents it from becoming mushy and ensures it retains a pleasant texture after absorbing the flavorful sauce.

Customize to Your Taste

Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like mushrooms, spinach, or different types of cheese. Make the dish your own by adapting the recipe to suit your personal preferences.

💭Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pasta bake up to the baking step, cover it with aluminum foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake it as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Is This Recipe Freezer Friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled (but unbaked) pasta bake. Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. To bake from frozen, remove the coverings and bake at 190C/375F for 45-50 minutes.

What Type of Pasta Works Best?

Short, sturdy pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini work best for this recipe. They hold the sauce well and provide a satisfying bite.

Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?

Yes, whole wheat pasta can be used as a healthier alternative to traditional pasta. It has a nuttier flavour and offers additional fibre, making your dish more nutritious. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly, as whole wheat pasta may require a bit longer to cook.

How Long Does Leftover Pasta Bake Last in the Fridge?

Leftover Pepperoni Pasta Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of chicken stock or water to prevent it from drying out.

Can I Make a Vegetarian Version?

Absolutely! To create a vegetarian pasta bake, simply omit the pepperoni and replace it with your favourite vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can also add in some protein-rich ingredients like chickpeas or lentils for added substance.

Is It Possible to Make This Dish Gluten-Free?

Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of this dish by substituting regular pasta with gluten-free pasta alternatives. Just ensure that all other ingredients, including sauces and cheeses, are certified gluten-free.

🥘More Easy Casseroles

When it comes to comforting and satisfying meals, pasta casseroles reign supreme. They are versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. Check out these other delightful pasta casserole recipes that I just love:

• Cheesy Gnocchi Casserole
• Easy Chicken Lasagna
• Mushroom and Spinach Lasagna
• Creamy Shrimp Pasta Casserole
• Four Cheese Pasta Casserole