PIZZA CASSEROLE

Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

Saucy pasta, ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, and pepperoni in a bubbling family-style bake.

Jump to Recipe
Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings8
DifficultyEasy

Ingredients

For the Casserole

  • 1 pound penne or rotini
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan
  • 5 ounces sliced pepperoni

Substitutions

  • Use turkey pepperoni or a plant-based pepperoni in the same amount.
  • Use ricotta, cottage cheese, or a dairy-free ricotta alternative, draining watery substitutes first.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Heat the oven to 375°F. Boil pasta for 2 minutes less than package directions; drain.

Step 2: Make the sauce

Cook onion in oil for 4 minutes, add garlic for 30 seconds, then stir in marinara, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Make the sauce for Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

Step 3: Combine

Mix pasta with the sauce, ricotta, half the mozzarella, half the parmesan, and half the pepperoni.

Step 4: Assemble

Transfer to a greased 9-by-13-inch dish and top with remaining mozzarella, parmesan, and pepperoni.

Assemble for Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

Step 5: Bake

Cover for 15 minutes, then uncover and bake 10 to 15 minutes more, until bubbling and browned. Rest 5 minutes.

Bake for Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
Finished Pepperoni Pizza Casserole ready to serve

How to Store Leftovers

After serving, cool Pepperoni Pizza Casserole and refrigerate within 2 hours; use within 3 to 4 days. Keep the container sealed so the pasta or casserole does not dry at the surface.

How to Reheat

Cover the casserole and reheat at 350°F until the center is hot. Remove the cover for the final few minutes to restore some browning on the cheese and exposed pasta without drying the entire dish.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient Per Serving
Calories 560
Protein 27g
Carbohydrates 58g
Fat 25g
Sugar 9g

Nutrition is an estimate and can vary with brands, portion size, and substitutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I keep the casserole from drying out?

Bake it covered for the first part of the cooking time so the pasta heats in the sauce, then uncover only near the end for browning. For leftovers, reheat covered and add a spoonful of marinara if the pasta has absorbed most of the moisture.

Can I assemble it ahead?

Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate before the final bake. If it goes into the oven cold, allow extra time for the center to become fully hot before uncovering to brown the top.

About the Author

FreshFork Recipes Team edits each recipe page for clear measurements, consistent instructions, and practical cooking guidance.

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