If you’re craving a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that combines melty cheese, savory pepperoni, and perfectly cooked pasta, you are absolutely going to love this Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, with layers of flavor that come together in a rich marinara sauce, gooey mozzarella, and a hit of Italian seasoning. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this bake is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe has a star role. From the tender pasta to the spicy pepperoni and the two types of cheese that bring so much creaminess and depth, each element adds to a symphony of textures and flavors you will adore.
- 8 ounces rotini pasta: Twisty pasta shapes that hold sauce and melted cheese perfectly.
- 1 pound ground beef: Adds hearty richness and protein to balance the dish.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- ¼ teaspoon pepper: A subtle peppery kick to bring warmth.
- 1 cup (138 g) pepperoni slices: Classic pizza topping that delivers savory spice and a satisfying bite.
- 2 cups (226 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded: Creamy and melty, mozzarella makes the bake irresistibly gooey.
- 1 cup (113 g) mild cheddar cheese, shredded: Adds a sharp, mellow contrast to the mozzarella.
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce: The tangy tomato base that infuses the whole dish with bright, herby flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that ties everything together with classic Mediterranean notes.
How to Make Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) and giving your 9×13-inch baking dish a good spray of nonstick cooking spray. This little prep step ensures that your cheesy creation will slide out effortlessly after baking.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Season it with kosher salt and pepper, then cook until the beef loses its pink color and gets nicely browned—this usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess grease to keep the dish from feeling heavy.
Step 3: Combine All Ingredients
In the same skillet, toss in your cooked al dente rotini pasta, pepperoni slices, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, cheddar cheese, marinara sauce, and the Italian seasoning. Mix everything thoroughly so every twist of pasta is coated in that flavorful sauce with cheese and pepperoni woven throughout. The aroma at this stage is simply mouthwatering.
Step 4: Bake to Gooey Perfection
Transfer this lovely mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cup of mozzarella cheese generously over the top to create a bubbly, golden crust as it bakes. Slide your dish into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. When the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges start to brown, your Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe is ready to come out.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
Give the bake a few minutes to rest after baking. This lets it set just right for easier serving. If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top to add a burst of color and a hint of fresh, herbal brightness.
How to Serve Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe
Garnishes
While the dish is rich and flavorful on its own, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil adds a fresh, vibrant touch. If you want an extra layer of savoriness, consider a light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese right before serving for an irresistible finishing touch.
Side Dishes
Given how hearty this pasta bake is, it’s excellent alongside light sides. A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly. Garlic bread or soft dinner rolls also complement the cheesy, saucy pasta, making the meal feel complete without overwhelming your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta bake in individual ramekins or small casserole dishes to make portions feel special and personalized. You could even add a few pepperoni slices on top of each serving for a pretty, inviting look that teases the flavors inside.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the cheese from drying out, making it convenient for quick meals later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to save some for way later, this pasta bake freezes well. Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep nicely for up to 2 months, so you can enjoy comfort food even on your busiest days.
Reheating
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to preserve that baked-on cheese texture. If you’re short on time, the microwave works too, but covering the dish with a microwave-safe lid will help keep moisture in and prevent dryness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is great for holding sauce, penne, rigatoni, or even fusilli would work wonderfully. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it holds up well during baking.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the ground beef for a plant-based ground meat alternative or even sautéed mushrooms for a similar texture. The pepperoni can be replaced by vegetarian pepperoni or omitted altogether.
Can I make this dish spicier?
Definitely! Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or use spicy pepperoni. You could also mix in a splash of hot sauce to the marinara for an extra kick.
What cheese works best if I don’t have mozzarella or cheddar?
Provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a mild gouda would melt nicely and add unique flavors. Combining two different cheeses, like in this recipe, really gives the best texture and taste.
How long does it take to prepare from start to finish?
This Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe takes about 40 minutes including prep and baking, which is perfect for a satisfying dinner that doesn’t keep you waiting too long.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting and satisfying about a Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe that brings everyone to the table with smiles. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and just the right amount of cheesy goodness. I hope you give this recipe a try soon and enjoy every gooey, delicious bite as much as I do!
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Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A delicious and comforting Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake combining savory ground beef, tangy marinara sauce, and melty mozzarella and cheddar cheeses baked to perfection with pepperoni slices for a hearty family meal.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 ounces rotini pasta, cooked al dente
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Meat and Cheese
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup (138 g) pepperoni slices
- 2 cups (226 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup (113 g) mild cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook ground beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, season it with kosher salt and pepper, and cook until brown and no longer pink in the center, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain off any excess grease and remove the skillet from heat.
- Combine ingredients: In the same skillet with the cooked ground beef, add the cooked rotini pasta, pepperoni slices, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Bake: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, hot, and bubbly.
- Rest and serve: Allow the pasta bake to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then serve warm for a comforting, cheesy meal.
Notes
- Cooking the pasta al dente ensures it won’t become mushy during baking.
- Drain excess grease from the beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Use fresh parsley or basil as a garnish to brighten the dish visually and add fresh herbal notes.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
