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Baked pizza pasta with pepperoni, cheese, and tomato sauce in a creamy rotini pasta dish.

Pizza Pasta

A quick and flexible pasta bake that combines the comforting flavors of pizza in a family-style dish, perfect for casual weeknights and gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12 oz Pasta (penne, rotini, rigatoni, or shells) Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well.
  • 1 jar Marinara or pizza sauce Use your favorite jarred or homemade sauce.
  • 2 cups Mozzarella cheese (shredded or fresh) Shredded melts easier; fresh is extra gooey.
  • 1 cup Pepperoni May substitute with turkey pepperoni.
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning Or a mix of oregano and basil.
  • 1 tsp Garlic (powder or fresh) Use powder for convenience, fresh is great.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese For topping.
Optional Toppings
  • 1 cup Mushrooms Fresh, sliced.
  • 1 cup Bell peppers Chopped.
  • 1/2 cup Black olives Sliced.
  • 1/2 cup Onions Chopped.
  • 1 cup Cooked sausage Optional.
  • 1/2 tsp Crushed red pepper flakes For added heat.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Boil the pasta in salted water until just barely tender, then drain well.
  2. In a large pot or skillet, warm the marinara or pizza sauce. Stir in Italian seasoning and garlic. Adjust flavor with a pinch of sugar if needed.
  3. Pour the drained pasta into the sauce and stir until evenly coated. Add a splash of water if the mixture is too thick.
  4. Incorporate a handful of mozzarella and a little Parmesan to create a creamy texture.
Assembly and Baking
  1. Transfer the saucy pasta into a baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella, pepperoni, and any additional toppings you prefer.
  2. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 to 20 minutes until hot and bubbly. For a crispier top, broil for 1 to 2 minutes, watching carefully.
  3. Allow the dish to rest for about 5 minutes before serving to thicken slightly.

Notes

Feel free to customize the toppings based on your preferences or what you have available. This dish can be made ahead of time and refrigerated, just add about 10 extra minutes to baking time when cooking from cold.