Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

Save this recipe on:

Warm, cheesy, and packed with irresistible flavors, Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mashup you didn’t know you needed. This dish combines the gooey, melty goodness of your favorite pizza with the hearty satisfaction of a baked pasta casserole. Every bite bursts with zesty tomato sauce, stretchy mozzarella, crispy-edged pepperoni, and tender pasta, making it a total crowd-pleaser for family dinners, game nights, or any time you crave a cozy meal.

Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner, a fun party dish, or just a creative way to satisfy pizza cravings without ordering takeout, this Pepperoni Pizza Casserole checks all the boxes. It’s simple to put together, highly customizable, and makes fantastic leftovers—if there are any! Let’s dive into what you’ll need to whip up this delicious fusion.

---

Ingredients for Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

• 12 oz pasta (penne, ziti, or rigatoni work best)
• 2 cups pizza sauce (or marinara sauce)
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 package pepperoni slices (about 30–40 slices)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Optional toppings: sliced black olives, diced bell peppers, mushrooms, cooked sausage
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

---

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente. (You want it slightly firm, so it doesn’t get mushy during baking.) Drain the pasta and toss it lightly with a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.

---

Step 2: Mix with Sauce and Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the pizza sauce, half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the pepperoni slices, and the minced garlic. Stir well until everything is evenly coated and distributed.

---

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top, making sure it’s generously covered.

---

Step 4: Top with Pepperoni and Seasoning

Arrange the remaining pepperoni slices evenly over the cheese layer. Sprinkle dried oregano and Italian seasoning on top for that classic pizza flavor. Add any extra toppings you love, like olives or peppers, if you’re feeling creative!

---

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown. For an extra crispy pepperoni topping, you can broil it for an additional 2–3 minutes—just keep a close eye on it!

---

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Slice and serve warm, and watch it disappear!

---

Storage Instructions

To store any leftover Pepperoni Pizza Casserole, allow the dish to cool completely first. Transfer the leftovers into an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or a lid. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions or the entire casserole. Wrap it securely with plastic wrap and then foil, or use freezer-safe containers. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

---

Estimated Nutrition

Please note these values are approximate per serving:

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Cholesterol: 60mg

(Nutrition may vary based on extra toppings and specific brands used.)

---

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pasta works best for Pepperoni Pizza Casserole?

Short, sturdy pasta like penne, rigatoni, or ziti works best because they hold the sauce well and bake nicely without turning mushy.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it up to a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Is there a way to make this casserole healthier?

Yes! Use whole wheat pasta, turkey pepperoni, and low-fat cheese to cut down on calories and fat without sacrificing flavor.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely! Bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and spinach are delicious additions that blend well with the pizza flavors.

How do I keep the casserole from drying out?

Make sure to use enough sauce to coat the pasta generously, and cover it loosely with foil for the first half of baking if needed.

Can I use a different cheese blend?

Of course! A mixture of provolone, mozzarella, and cheddar can add extra richness and depth to the flavor.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F covered with foil for about 15 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the pepperoni or replace it with vegetarian pepperoni or extra veggies for a meat-free version that’s just as tasty.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: