Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe

If you’re anything like me, you know that nothing beats the warmth and comfort of a cheesy, baked pasta dish on a cozy night in. This Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe has quickly become a go-to for busy weeknights or casual family dinners because it brings together all the best flavors—gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, and hearty pasta—in one irresistible casserole. I love this recipe because it’s easy to pull together, yet it feels special enough to impress guests or treat yourself after a long day.

What makes this Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe really stand out is how well the flavors meld while baking, creating a bubbly, golden top with melty cheese underneath and pockets of flavorful pepperoni throughout. Plus, it’s incredibly forgiving—you can tweak it to add more veggies or extra spice if that’s your jam. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want to make it again and again!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple ingredients come together beautifully and are often kitchen staples, making the Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe easy to put together anytime you want. A good tip: pick quality pepperoni and fresh mozzarella for the best cheesy, savory bite.

• Rotini pasta: The spiral shape holds sauce and cheese well, giving you a perfect bite every time.
• Ground beef: Adds hearty flavor and richness that balances the pepperoni’s spice.
• Kosher salt & pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance the meat mixture’s flavor.
• Pepperoni slices: Pepperoni is of course the star here—choose your favorite kind, spicy or mild.
• Mozzarella cheese: Use shredded mozzarella for that classic melty texture; reserve some for topping.
• Mild cheddar cheese: Adds a subtle sharpness and depth to the cheesy filling.
• Marinara sauce: A jarred marinara works great—smooth, tangy, and packed with tomato flavor.
• Italian seasoning: Brings herbs like oregano and basil to round out the flavors perfectly.

Variations

I’m all about making recipes your own, and this Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe is no exception. You can easily add veggies or swap meats to fit your mood or what you have on hand.

• Vegetable Boost: I love tossing in bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives—my family barely notices the veggies hidden in there!
• Spicy Twist: Using spicy pepperoni or a pinch of red pepper flakes kicked this up a notch when we needed more heat.
• Cheese Swap: Try substituting mozzarella with provolone or adding Parmesan on top for an extra savory layer.
• Meat Alternatives: Ground sausage or turkey works great if you want to change it up or make it lighter.

How to Make Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing your 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray—this step is key to prevent sticking and helps the pasta bake come out clean and beautiful. Meanwhile, cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions but be sure to drain it al dente so it doesn’t get mushy in the bake.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook your ground beef seasoned with kosher salt and pepper until it’s no longer pink—about 8 to 10 minutes. This is where you build flavor, so be sure to break the beef into small pieces and drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from getting oily.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Once your beef is ready, add the cooked pasta, pepperoni slices, half the mozzarella, shredded cheddar, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning right into the skillet with the beef. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and has that rich, saucy look. Pour this mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of your pasta mixture—this will form that irresistible golden cheese crust while baking. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving so the bake sets and slices nicely.

How to Serve Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe

Garnishes

I’m a sucker for fresh parsley or basil sprinkled over the top to add a pop of color and a fresh flavor contrast to the richness of the cheese and meat. Sometimes I also add a light sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for heat if we want to spice it up.

Side Dishes

Simple green salads with a tangy vinaigrette are my go-to to cut the richness, but roasted veggies like broccoli or green beans also make a delicious, easy pairing with this pasta bake.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like serving the bake in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets. It feels more elevated and fun—plus, everyone gets their own cheesy, melty portion!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover pasta bake in an airtight container in the fridge where it keeps well for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cool it down fully before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully! I usually portion it into individual containers, freeze until solid, and then transfer to freezer bags. When I’m ready, I thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, I cover the pasta bake with foil and heat in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, a microwave works but the oven method keeps it from drying out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can honestly say this Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe has saved me on more than one busy night, and it’s always a hit with everyone at the table. It’s one of those recipes I reach for when I want something comforting, easy, and crowd-pleasing all in one dish. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—and don’t be shy about adding your own twist to make it truly yours!

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