Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

Who doesn’t love the flavors of a classic pepperoni pizza? Now, imagine all that cheesy, saucy goodness transformed into an easy, baked casserole—comfort food at its finest! Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a mouthwatering dish that combines pasta, rich tomato sauce, gooey melted cheese, and crispy pepperoni, all baked to perfection.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or whenever you crave pizza but want something more filling. Plus, it’s super customizable, so you can add your favorite pizza toppings or tweak it to fit your dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you need an easy, family-friendly recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds, this pepperoni pizza casserole is it! Here’s why:

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour with minimal prep.
• Kid-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters love it!
• Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead and reheat for later.
• Highly Customizable: Change up the toppings and base to fit your taste.

Ingredients Needed

To make the perfect pepperoni pizza casserole, gather the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• Pasta (penne or rotini) – Holds sauce well and provides a great texture.
• Marinara or pizza sauce – The base of that classic pizza flavor.
• Pepperoni slices – The star of the dish! Use regular or turkey pepperoni.
• Mozzarella cheese – For that gooey, melty goodness.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds extra cheesy depth.
• Italian seasoning – Enhances the pizza flavors.
• Olive oil – To prevent pasta from sticking.

Optional Add-Ins:

• Ground beef or sausage – For a heartier version.
• Bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives – Classic pizza toppings.
• Red pepper flakes – For a spicy kick.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add pasta and cook until al dente (firm but not overcooked).
3. Drain and toss with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Prepare the Sauce

1. In a large pan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat.
2. If using ground beef or sausage, cook until browned and drain excess fat.
3. Stir in marinara or pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using.
4. Let simmer for about 5 minutes to blend flavors.

Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta.
3. Pour half of the sauce over the pasta.
4. Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. Repeat another layer of pasta, sauce, and cheese.
6. Top with pepperoni slices and any extra toppings of choice.

Bake to Perfection

1. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
3. Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

• Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting quality.
• Pre-cook any extra toppings like mushrooms or sausage to avoid excess moisture.
• Let it rest before serving to allow flavors to settle.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
• Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushy texture.
• Pre-cook extra toppings like mushrooms or sausage to remove excess moisture.
• Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to set the layers.
• Customize it! Add your favorite pizza toppings like onions, olives, or bell peppers.

Variations of the Recipe

• Low-Carb/Keto: Swap pasta for cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
• Vegetarian: Replace pepperoni with more veggies or plant-based sausage.
• Spicy Version: Add jalapeños, spicy sausage, or extra red pepper flakes.

Pairing Suggestions

• Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
• Caesar salad – Adds a fresh, crisp contrast.
• Red wine or soda – Complements the cheesy, savory flavors.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

One of the best things about Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is that it stores and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious:

Storing in the Fridge

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
• Transfer leftovers into an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing for Later

• For longer storage, freeze individual portions or the entire casserole.
• Wrap the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or transfer portions into freezer-safe containers.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

1. Oven (Best Method):
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes (longer if frozen) until heated through.
2. Microwave (For Quick Reheating):
   • Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate.
   • Cover with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out.
   • Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
3. Air Fryer (For a Crispy Top):
   • Preheat air fryer to 350°F.
   • Place a portion in the air fryer basket.
   • Heat for 5-7 minutes or until warm and crispy on top.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.

2. What can I use instead of pepperoni?
Try sausage, ham, or a vegetarian alternative like mushrooms.

3. Can I make this without pasta?
Yes! Use spaghetti squash or zucchini for a low-carb version.

4. How can I make this casserole healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, low-fat cheese, and turkey pepperoni.

5. Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Freeze before or after baking for easy meal prep.

Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

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• Author: Isabella Florelle
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Enjoy the ultimate Pepperoni Pizza Casserole—a cheesy, delicious, and easy-to-make dish perfect for family dinners. This crowd-pleasing casserole is packed with classic pizza flavors, layered with pasta, marinara sauce, melted cheese, and crispy pepperoni. Try this comforting, kid-friendly meal today!

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or rigatoni)
• 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
• 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 6 oz pepperoni slices
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ lb ground beef or Italian sausage, cooked and drained
• 1 cup bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives, sliced
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes, for spice

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add pasta and cook until al dente (firm but tender).
3. Drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. If using ground beef or sausage, cook until browned and drain excess fat.
3. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the pasta.
3. Pour half of the sauce over the pasta.
4. Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. Repeat with another layer of pasta, sauce, and cheese.
6. Top with pepperoni slices and any extra toppings.

Step 4: Bake & Serve

1. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove foil and bake for 10 more minutes until cheese is bubbly.
3. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushy texture.
Pre-cook extra toppings like mushrooms or sausage to remove excess moisture.
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to set the layers.
Customize it! Add your favorite pizza toppings like onions, olives, or bell peppers.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes