Pepperoni Cheese Bake is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines the best of pizza flavors into a warm, cheesy casserole. This easy-to-make recipe layers zesty pepperoni with gooey cheese and a savory tomato sauce, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a fun addition to any gathering. With its rich, cheesy goodness and the spicy kick of pepperoni, this bake is sure to please both kids and adults alike. Serve it with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread for a complete and hearty dinner.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340g) cooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the marinara sauce until well combined. Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese, and half of the pepperoni slices.
- Assemble the Bake: Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese, and arrange the remaining pepperoni slices on top. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Enjoy this cheesy, pepperoni-packed bake hot from the oven for a delightful and hearty meal!
