Pizza Pasta Bake
Pizza Pasta Bake is what happens when pizza night meets pasta night and they have the most delicious pizza and pasta baby. This pizza pasta recipe gives you all the classic pizza flavors in a hearty, cheesy casserole that the whole family loves!
Love easy casseroles? Check out our: Hamburger Tater Tot Casserole, French Fry Casserole, or Chicken and Stuffing Casserole.
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My kids go absolutely crazy for this dish. I made it last night and they devoured the whole thing quickly! It’s like I combined their two favorite pizza flavors into one amazing dinner that actually gets them to sit at the table without complaining.
One of the twins said it’s the only casserole he can eat, LOL! I’m sure it will become a family favorite at your house too!
What you’ll love about this pizza pasta casserole:
Recipe Ingredients for Pasta Pizza:
You’ll need the following ingredients to make this pizza n pasta:
- Rotini pasta (or penne pasta if you prefer)
- Pizza sauce
- Marinara sauce (or spaghetti sauce)
- Heavy cream
- Garlic powder
- Italian seasoning
- Onion powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- Slices of pepperoni (or mini pepperoni)
Ingredient Notes:
- Pasta Shape: Rotini works perfectly because the spirals hold onto the sauce, but penne pasta or even whole wheat pasta work too.
- Pizza Sauce: Don’t skip this! It’s what gives the dish those authentic pizza flavors that make it taste just like your favorite pizza toppings.
- Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce creamy and rich, balancing the tangy tomato sauce flavors.
How to make pizza bake bake step-by-step:
Check out the quick visual guides below. For full instructions and ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the end.
Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Cook pasta al dente according to package directions; drain.
Step 3: In a large bowl, mix pizza sauce, marinara sauce, heavy cream, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Give it a good stir to combine everything.
Step 4: Add cooked pasta and 1 cup mozzarella cheese to create the pasta mixture. Toss to combine.
Step 5: Transfer to prepared baking dish. Top with remaining 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, then arrange pepperoni slices on top in a single layer of pepperoni.
Step 6: Cover with aluminum foil and bake 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake 8 to 10 minutes more until the cheese melts and is bubbly and golden.
Step 7: Serve hot.
PRO TIP:
Cook pasta just until al dente, since it will continue cooking in the oven. If using gluten-free pasta, undercook slightly, as it softens faster and can become mushy.
Storage and Reheating:
Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It can be kept for up to 3 days.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen if dry. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until thoroughly warmed.
Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months for longer storage.
Additions and Substitutions:
ADDITIONS:
- Vegetables: Add diced green peppers, black olives, or red onion to the sauce for extra flavor and more of your favorite pizza toppings.
- Meat: Try ground sausage, turkey pepperoni, or crispy bacon for different protein options.
- Cheese: Mix in some parmesan cheese or try different types of cheeses for variety.
- Seasonings: Sprinkle red pepper flakes for heat, or add fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil on top.
- Extras: Add any additional toppings you love on pizza!
SUBSTITUTIONS:
- Pasta: Any short pasta shape works well, or try uncooked pasta if making this in an Instant Pot.
- Cream: Half-and-half can substitute for heavy cream if you prefer lighter.
- Sauce: Use homemade Italian dressing mixed with marinara for a different flavor twist.
- Pepperoni: Use any pizza topping you love! My favorite thing is how this cheesy pepperoni pizza pasta is totally customizable.
FAQs about this Pizza Casserole Recipe:
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the entire dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Just keep in mind the pasta may absorb some of the sauce as it sits, so you might want to undercook it slightly or add a little extra sauce to prevent it from drying out. When ready to bake, add about 10 extra minutes to the covered baking time. Perfect for one of those easy dinner recipes you can prep ahead.
Why is my pasta bake dry?
This usually happens if the pasta isn’t fully coated in sauce or if it’s been over baked. Covering the dish with foil helps lock in moisture. If you prep the casserole ahead of time, remember the pasta can soak up some of the sauce while it sits in the fridge, so adding a little extra sauce before baking can help keep it creamy.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Prepare two 9×13-inch baking dishes or use one very large casserole dish. Bake as directed, but allow a little extra time in the oven since the larger quantity will take longer to heat through. This makes it perfect for feeding a crowd.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Add the uncooked pasta, pizza sauce, marinara, seasonings, and about 3-4 cups of water. Cook on high pressure for 4–5 minutes with a quick release. Stir in the cheese and pepperoni, then serve right away or transfer to an oven-safe dish and broil for a few minutes to get that golden top.
What can I serve with this Pepperoni Pizza Casserole?
This is pizza casserole is hearty enough to be a complete meal, but a simple green salad, green beans, or garlic bread makes nice sides if you want to round out the dinner.
DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?
I’m excited for you to try this Pizza Pasta Bake! After you make it, please leave a rating to let me know your thoughts on it – I’m eager to hear if you loved it as much as we do! Find us on IG + TikTok: @littlechefwithin
Pizza Pasta Bake
Equipment
Ingredients
- 12 ounces rotini pasta uncooked
- 1 (14 ounce)jar pizza sauce
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook pasta al dente according to package directions; drain.
- In a large bowl, mix pizza sauce, marinara sauce, heavy cream, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add cooked pasta and 1 cup mozzarella cheese. Toss to combine.
- Transfer to prepared baking dish. Top with remaining 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, then arrange pepperoni slices on top.
- Cover with foil and bake 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake 8–10 minutes more until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve hot.
Notes
Pro Tip:
Cook pasta just until al dente, since it will continue cooking in the oven. If using gluten-free pasta, undercook slightly, as it softens faster and can become mushy.Nutrition
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