If you love pizza and pasta, this Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is the perfect fusion dish for you! It combines all the flavors of a classic pepperoni pizza with the heartiness of baked pasta, making it a crowd-pleasing meal for family dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings.
This easy-to-make casserole is loaded with pepperoni, gooey mozzarella, tangy pizza sauce, and savory Italian seasoning, all baked to perfection. Plus, it’s customizable—you can add your favorite pizza toppings like bell peppers, mushrooms, or sausage for extra flavor.
Below, you’ll find the full recipe, step-by-step instructions, and answers to frequently asked questions to ensure your casserole turns out delicious every time!
Pepperoni Pizza Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta (rotini, penne, or any short pasta)
- 1 jar (24 oz) pizza sauce (or marinara sauce)
- 2 cups pepperoni slices (divided—some for mixing, some for topping)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional add-ins: cooked sausage, diced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, olives
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain well.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, pizza sauce, 1½ cups pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with remaining ½ cup pepperoni and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over it.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or farfalle works well. Avoid long pasta (like spaghetti) as it doesn’t hold the sauce as evenly.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can:
- Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freeze it unbaked for up to 3 months—just thaw before baking.
3. Can I use homemade pizza sauce?
Yes! If you prefer homemade sauce, use 2½ cups of your favorite marinara or pizza sauce.
4. How do I store leftovers?
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
5. Can I add other pizza toppings?
Definitely! Try:
- Cooked Italian sausage
- Sautéed mushrooms & bell peppers
- Black olives or jalapeños for extra flavor
6. Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! Kids love the cheesy, pepperoni-packed flavor. For picky eaters, you can reduce the seasoning or add extra cheese.
7. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients (especially pepperoni) are gluten-free.
Tips for the Best Pizza Casserole
✅ Don’t overcook the pasta—it will soften more while baking.
✅ Use full-fat cheese for the best melt and flavor.
✅ Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for an extra crispy top.
✅ Let it rest before serving so it holds together better.
Final Thoughts
This Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of pizza in a comforting pasta bake. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to be a hit!
Have you tried this recipe? Share your twists in the comments below! 🍕🍝
