This hearty, cheesy pasta bake is a family favorite that combines tender penne, rich marinara sauce, melty mozzarella, and crispy pepperoni slices. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or game day gatherings.
Cheesy Baked Pepperoni Pasta
Servings
8
servingsPrep time
10
minutesCooking time
40
minutesCalories per serving
420
kcalIngredients
1 pound uncooked penne pasta
3 cups (24 oz) marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
10 ounces sliced pepperoni
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions
- Prepare the Pasta:
– Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and position the rack in the top third of the oven.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne for 2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest (al dente). Drain and return to the pot. - Mix the Ingredients:
– Stir in the marinara sauce and about 1/3 of the sliced pepperoni into the cooked pasta. Mix until evenly combined. - Transfer and Layer:
– Pour the pasta mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
Top with shredded mozzarella and the remaining pepperoni slices. - Bake and Broil:
– Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, then switch to broil for a few minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the pepperoni is slightly crisp. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Notes
- Use mini pepperoni:
or cut standard slices into halves for better distribution in each bite. - Make it ahead:
Assemble the dish earlier in the day and refrigerate. Just increase baking time by 5–10 minutes if cold. - Add-ins welcome:
Feel free to mix in sautéed veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions for extra flavor and texture.
This baked pepperoni pasta is the ultimate comfort food easy to make, endlessly satisfying, and loaded with flavor. Serve it with a crisp side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.
