If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that combines the best of cheesy goodness and zesty pepperoni flair, then this Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe is about to become your new dinner obsession. Imagine tender rotini pasta perfectly coated in savory marinara, mingled with juicy ground beef and spicy pepperoni, all topped with a gooey blanket of melted mozzarella and cheddar. This dish brings family and friends together with its rich flavors and irresistible cheesy pull, making any night feel like a celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential to create the perfect harmony of flavor and texture in this Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe. Each element plays a role, from the al dente pasta adding body to the pepperoni bringing that classic spicy kick, all tied together with creamy melted cheese and zesty marinara.
- 8 ounces rotini pasta: Its spiral shape holds sauce and cheese beautifully for every bite.
- 1 pound ground beef: Adds a savory, meaty base that makes the dish filling and hearty.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper: A subtle spice that balances the richness of the cheese.
- 1 cup (138 g) pepperoni slices: The star ingredient provides that signature zesty heat and little bursts of flavor.
- 2 cups (226 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded, divided: For that stretchy, melty texture everyone loves.
- 1 cup (113 g) mild cheddar cheese, shredded: Adds a hint of sharpness and depth to the cheese blend.
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce: The rich tomato base that infuses the whole dish with vibrant flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that lifts the sauce and meat with classic herbal notes.
How to Make Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Get things going by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Don’t forget to lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray—this little step makes cleanup easier and keeps the cheesy bake from sticking to the pan.
Step 2: Cook Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high and add the ground beef along with kosher salt and pepper. Stir and break apart the meat, cooking until it’s thoroughly cooked through and no pink remains, about 8 to 10 minutes. Once done, drain any excess grease to keep things from getting too oily, ensuring a perfect texture in each bite.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Now comes the fun part. Add the cooked rotini, pepperoni slices, half of your shredded mozzarella, shredded cheddar, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning right into the skillet with the beef. Stir everything together thoroughly so each mouthful bursts with flavor. Then, transfer this cheesy, saucy mixture into your prepared baking dish, setting the stage for that gorgeous golden finish.
Step 4: Add Cheese Topping
Take the remaining cup of shredded mozzarella and sprinkle it evenly over the top of the pasta mixture. This layer is key because when it bakes, it transforms into a luscious, bubbly golden crust that’s impossible to resist.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese topping is beautifully melted, bubbling, and just starting to turn that perfect golden brown. Once out of the oven, allow your creation to rest for a few minutes—this helps the flavors to settle and makes serving easier.
How to Serve Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil adds a burst of color and a touch of freshness that brightens the rich, cheesy flavors. For extra flair, a light dusting of Parmesan cheese right before serving can make your Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe look and taste even more irresistible.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with crisp green salads like a Caesar or simple arugula with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is perfect for mopping up every delicious last bit of sauce and melted cheese.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or family dinners, consider serving the pasta bake in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for cute, personalized portions. Alternatively, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or add dollops of ricotta on top before baking to add layers of flavor and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen, making it taste even better the next day.
Freezing
This Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe freezes wonderfully. Place portions or the entire dish into a freezer-safe container, covered tightly with foil or a lid, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes until warmed through. For quicker reheating, microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heat.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta instead of rotini?
Absolutely! While rotini is perfect for holding the sauce and cheese, penne, rigatoni, or even elbows work great in this bake. Just be sure to cook your pasta al dente for the best texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can skip the ground beef and replace pepperoni with vegetarian or plant-based pepperoni alternatives. Adding extra veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers can boost the flavor and nutrition.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake later?
Definitely! Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a perfect meal prep recipe or time-saver for busy nights.
What types of cheese work best for this recipe?
Mozzarella is essential for that gooey melt, but mixing in cheddar adds a wonderful sharpness and depth. Feel free to experiment with provolone or Monterey Jack for a different twist.
How spicy is this dish?
The pepperoni gives a mild spicy kick, but the recipe isn’t overwhelmingly hot. If you prefer more heat, toss in crushed red pepper flakes or spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s both simple and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for an easy weeknight winner, this dish ticks all the boxes with its bold flavors, comforting textures, and eye-catching cheesy finish. Trust me, once you make it, it’ll quickly become a favorite on your dinner rotation.
