Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is the perfect way to enjoy the classic flavors of pizza in a comforting and easy-to-make casserole form. This hearty dish is sure to please pizza lovers of all ages with its layers of pasta, sauce, cheese, and pepperoni. In this article, we’ll guide you through creating the mouthwatering Pepperoni Pizza Casserole.
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Pepperoni Pizza Casserole Recipe
Savor the irresistible taste of Pepperoni Pizza Casserole that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into the recipe!
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Ingredients
Below is a comprehensive table featuring all the ingredients you’ll need to make this mouthwatering Pepperoni Pizza Casserole:
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| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rotini Pasta | 8 ounces |
| Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Ground Italian Sausage | 1/2 pound |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 |
| Green Bell Pepper (chopped) | 1 |
| Garlic Cloves (minced) | 2 |
| Marinara Sauce | 2 cups |
| Dried Oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Shredded Mozzarella Cheese | 2 cups |
| Pepperoni Slices | 30-40 slices |
| Fresh Basil Leaves | For garnish |
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish for the casserole.
- Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender and aromatic.
- Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet, and add the dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes.
- Add the cooked rotini pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until well coated.
- Spread half of the pasta mixture into the greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta.
- Place a layer of pepperoni slices over the cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, cheese, and pepperoni.
- Top the casserole with additional pepperoni slices for an extra pepperoni kick.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake the Pepperoni Pizza Casserole in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5 minutes or until the pepperoni turns crispy.
- Garnish the casserole with fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor.
Serve the Pepperoni Pizza Casserole with a side salad for a complete and delicious meal!
FAQ’s
- Can I use a different type of pasta for the casserole? Certainly! You can use any short pasta shape, such as penne or macaroni, for a variation.
- Can I use turkey pepperoni instead of regular pepperoni? Yes, turkey pepperoni is a great alternative for a lighter option with similar flavor.
- Can I add other toppings to the casserole? Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings like olives, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Can I make the casserole ahead of time? Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is best served fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead of time for quicker assembly.
- Can I freeze the leftover casserole? Yes, you can freeze the casserole (after baking) in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat before serving.
- Can I use store-bought pizza sauce instead of marinara sauce? Yes, you can use pizza sauce for a more concentrated pizza flavor.
Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a flavorful and comforting dish that captures the essence of pizza in a hearty casserole. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So, savor the mouthwatering taste of Pepperoni Pizza Casserole and enjoy every cheesy and pepperoni-filled bite!
