Looking for a delicious family meal that’s a breeze to whip up? Easy Pizza Pasta is here to save the day! This dish combines the best flavors of pizza with hearty pasta, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. It’s customizable, appealing to both kids and adults alike, and can easily be tailored to fit your family’s preferences.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 450
Protein: 20 grams
Carbohydrates: 50 grams
Fat: 20 grams
Fiber: 3 grams
Sugar: 6 grams
Sodium: 800 mg
Why Make Easy Pizza Pasta
Easy Pizza Pasta is not only a scrumptious meal, but it’s also packed with nutrition. The penne pasta serves as a great source of carbohydrates, providing the energy you need. With marinara sauce rich in tomatoes and mozzarella cheese that oozes delight, this dish is full of flavors that will please everyone at the table. It’s versatile too; feel free to switch up ingredients based on what you have on hand!
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 a complete meal, serve Easy Pizza Pasta alongside a fresh green salad dressed with vinaigrette. You might also consider pairing it with garlic bread to satisfy those carb cravings. For a fun twist, serve with a side of ranch dressing for dipping!
How to Store Easy Pizza Pasta
Store leftovers of Easy Pizza Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is a great option. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When reheating, add a splash of marinara sauce to bring back moisture.
Expert Tips for Cooking Easy Pizza Pasta
- For extra flavor, try adding chopped bell peppers or sautéed onions to the mix.
- Use a blend of cheeses; provolone or cheddar can add amazing depth.
- If you’re using whole grain pasta, increase the cooking time slightly to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.
Delicious Variations of Easy Pizza Pasta
- Add some heat with jalapeños or spicy sausage for a spicy kick.
- Go vegetarian by swapping out pepperoni for mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- For a fresh twist, try adding some lemon zest and fresh herbs like basil or oregano.
Conclusion
Don’t miss out on trying Easy Pizza Pasta! It’s a wonderful blend of flavors that’s both simple to prepare and satisfying to eat. Perfect for any occasion, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Give it a try and enjoy the smiles it brings!
Easy Pizza Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 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.
Cheeses
- 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese, shredded Melts into creamy, gooey goodness.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated Adds a sharp, nutty contrast.
Toppings
- 1 cup Pepperoni Slices Brings the bold, meaty punch of pizza.
Seasonings and Oils
- 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.
- 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.
