Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake

Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake

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Introduction

Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake combines the heartwarming goodness of pasta with the irresistible flavors of pizza. This dish is perfect for anyone looking to satisfy their cravings for something cheesy, meaty, and utterly comforting. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings where you want to impress without too much fuss.

What’s Unique About This Recipe

What sets this pasta bake apart is its clever use of pepperoni and three types of cheese—mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta—creating a dish that tastes like a cross between a hearty pasta meal and a pepperoni pizza. The addition of Italian herbs and a robust marinara sauce enriches the flavor, making it more than just a simple pasta dish. It’s a celebration of flavors that brings a touch of indulgence to your dinner table.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 24 oz jar of marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup pepperoni slices
  • Extra mozzarella for topping

Nutrition

Each serving of Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake approximately contains:

  • Calories: 420
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg
  • Sodium: 900mg
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 22g

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water until just al dente, about one minute less than the package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until onion is translucent.
  2. Pour in the marinara sauce, add water, and sprinkle with Italian seasoning. Let simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Cheese Mixture

  1. In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, the egg, and season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

  1. In a baking dish, spread half the cooked pasta. Layer half the sauce and half the cheese mixture over it.
  2. Repeat with the remaining pasta, sauce, and cheese mixture. Top with pepperoni slices and extra mozzarella.

Step 5: Baking

  1. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serving Tips

Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the meal.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the bake ahead of time and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Absolutely! Fusilli, rigatoni, or even shells work great in this recipe.

This Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake is a staple in my recipe collection for when I need a no-fuss yet satisfying meal. It’s perfect for when you want the comfort of pasta and the bold flavors of a pepperoni pizza. Each serving is loaded with cheesy goodness, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any table.

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