If you’re looking for a dish that’s both easy to make and absolutely delicious, Easy Pizza Pasta is the perfect choice! This comforting meal combines the beloved flavors of pizza with pasta, making it a delightful treat for both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re celebrating a family gathering or simply trying to create something special on a busy weeknight, this dish fits the bill and can easily be customized to your liking.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 385
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 780mg
Why Make Easy Pizza Pasta
Easy Pizza Pasta isn’t just about convenience; it’s a delicious way to incorporate the flavors you love into a new form. The creamy, cheesy, and savory elements make it a family favorite, while the option to add or omit ingredients speaks to its versatility. Plus, it’s packed with carbs and protein, providing a satisfying meal that can easily be tailored to meet dietary preferences.
How to Make Easy Pizza Pasta Step by Step
Ingredients
Penne Pasta: 12 ounces – Provides the sturdy base that holds up well in baking.
Marinara Sauce: 3 cups – Delivers that rich, tomatoey flavor you love in pizza.
Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups shredded – Melts into creamy, gooey goodness.
Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup grated – Adds a sharp, nutty contrast.
Pepperoni Slices: 1 cup – Brings the bold, meaty punch of pizza.
Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon – Used to coat the pasta and keep it from sticking.
Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon – A blend of herbs that mimics classic pizza flavors.
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon – Enhances all the other ingredients.
Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon – Adds a gentle kick and balance.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional): 1/4 teaspoon – For those who like a bit of heat.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.
Cook pasta in salted water until just al dente, drain, and toss with olive oil. In a large bowl, mix the pasta, marinara sauce, half the mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading evenly.
Top with the remaining mozzarella and arrange pepperoni slices across the top like you would on a pizza.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top just before serving.
Let rest for 5 minutes, then scoop out generous portions and watch smiles appear.
How to Serve Easy Pizza Pasta
For the ultimate meal experience, consider serving your Easy Pizza Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate the dish even further. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauces for an added layer of flavor.
How to Store Easy Pizza Pasta
To keep your Easy Pizza Pasta fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results; just cover it with foil to maintain moisture. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Expert Tips for Cooking Easy Pizza Pasta
- Always cook pasta al dente for the best texture after baking.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors, like provolone or gouda.
- Customize your Easy Pizza Pasta by adding your choice of vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Adjust the spice levels by increasing or omitting red pepper flakes according to your taste.
- For a healthier twist, substitute whole-grain pasta and add spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
Delicious Variations of Easy Pizza Pasta
You can easily switch things up with Easy Pizza Pasta. For a spicy version, add jalapeños or sliced chili peppers. If you’re in the mood for a herbed twist, mix in fresh basil and oregano. Want it vegetarian? Skip the pepperoni and use zucchini, eggplant, or olives for extra flavor and texture.
With its flavorful ingredients and ease of preparation, Easy Pizza Pasta is a dish you won’t want to miss. It’s a wonderful way to satisfy cravings and create lasting memories at the dinner table. Try it tonight and discover how simple it can be to bring joy to mealtime!
Easy Pizza Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 12 ounces Penne Pasta Provides the sturdy base that holds up well in baking.
- 3 cups Marinara Sauce Delivers that rich, tomatoey flavor you love in pizza.
Cheese Ingredients
- 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese, shredded Melts into creamy, gooey goodness.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated Adds a sharp, nutty contrast.
Meat and Seasoning Ingredients
- 1 cup Pepperoni Slices Brings the bold, meaty punch of pizza.
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Used to coat the pasta and keep it from sticking.
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning A blend of herbs that mimics classic pizza flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt Enhances all the other ingredients.
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds a gentle kick and balance.
- 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional) For those who like a bit of heat.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish.
- Cook pasta in salted water until just al dente, drain, and toss with olive oil.
- In a large bowl, mix the pasta, marinara sauce, half the mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Baking
- Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading evenly.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella and arrange pepperoni slices across the top like you would on a pizza.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top just before serving.
- Let rest for 5 minutes, then scoop out generous portions and watch smiles appear.
