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This pizza pasta bake is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something comforting and easy. Combining penne pasta, rich marinara sauce, pepperoni, and melty mozzarella, it tastes like your favorite pizza transformed into a cozy casserole. It takes minimal prep and cooks in under an hour, making it a reliable go-to dinner that satisfies both kids and adults alike.
I first made this after a long day with little energy, and it quickly became a family favorite. Now, whenever I make it, the kids ask for seconds and it brings back those cozy fall evenings when we all just wanted something warm and easy.
Ingredients
- Penne pasta: holds its shape well and its ridges help the sauce cling, preventing a mushy bake
- Marinara sauce: provides that classic tomato base. Choose a quality brand like Rao’s or Classico for the best flavor
- Pepperoni: adds savory, slightly spicy flavor with crispy edges on top for that authentic pizza feel
- Mozzarella cheese: melts perfectly, creating a gooey, golden top that binds everything together
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and position the rack in the upper third. This helps get a nice browning on top.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne for two minutes less than the package recommends. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy after baking. Drain the pasta well.
- Mix Pasta and Sauce:
- Return the drained pasta to the pot. Stir in the marinara sauce and about one third of the pepperoni slices until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Bake:
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9 by 13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Arrange the remaining pepperoni slices on the cheese to create that classic pizza look.
- Bake and Broil:
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles. Switch the oven to broil and carefully broil for 2 to 3 minutes until the pepperoni crisps. Watch closely to avoid burning.
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I learned early on that undercooking the pasta slightly is crucial — following package directions leads to mushy results. Another memorable moment was when I tried whole wheat pasta to be healthy, but it just didn’t work for this dish. Sometimes classic ingredients are best for comfort food like this.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in disposable foil containers covered tightly with foil. Reheat from frozen in a 375 degree oven for about 30 minutes.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap penne for rotini, ziti, or farfalle if needed Try adding cooked Italian sausage or diced vegetables like bell peppers and olives for a supreme pizza version Replace marinara with Alfredo sauce and add spinach for a white pizza variation Use diced cooked chicken tossed in buffalo sauce instead of pepperoni for a buffalo chicken twist
Serving Suggestions
This bake pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with Italian dressing Garlic bread is a kid favorite and easy to prepare alongside — just butter a split French loaf with garlic powder and warm it in the oven A glass of inexpensive red wine can elevate the meal for grown-up dinners without complicating things
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Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Rotini, ziti, or farfalle work well. Just avoid thin pasta shapes, as they may become too soft during baking.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble it up to a day in advance and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cook time.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or covered in the oven at 350°F until hot.
- → How can I change up the flavor?
Try adding sausage, bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives. Swapping marinara for Alfredo or buffalo sauce also works well.
- → Can I freeze it?
Yes! Portion it into foil containers, cover, and freeze. Reheat from frozen at 375°F for about 30 minutes.
- → Is there a vegetarian version?
Omit the pepperoni and add vegetables like mushrooms, peppers, and olives. Plant-based pepperoni is also an option.