Pepperoni Pizza Casserole, If you're a fan of both pepperoni pizza and comforting casseroles, you're in for a treat with this mouthwatering Pepperoni Pizza Casserole recipe. With layers of ooey-gooey cheese, zesty tomato sauce, hearty pasta, and of course, plenty of savory pepperoni, this casserole brings all the flavors of your favorite pizzeria right to your dinner table. It's a family-friendly dish that's simple to prepare and sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients Pepperoni Pizza Casserole :
- 2 cups of your favorite pasta (penne, rotini, or similar)
- 1 jar (24 oz) of your preferred tomato pasta sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions Pepperoni Pizza Casserole :
Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Layer the Casserole:
- Spread half of the cooked pasta evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour half of the tomato pasta sauce over the pasta and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Layer half of the sliced pepperoni on top.
- Repeat the Layers:
- Create a second layer by repeating the steps above with the remaining pasta, sauce, cheese, and pepperoni.
- Add Seasonings:
- Evenly sprinkle the dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the top of the casserole.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes.
- Uncover and Finish Baking:
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra pop of flavor and visual appeal.
Enjoy Your Savory Creation!
Indulge in the amazing flavors of this Pepperoni Pizza Casserole that perfectly captures the essence of a classic pepperoni pizza. This dish is not only a hit with kids but also a delightful way to satisfy your pizza cravings in a convenient casserole format. Share it with family and friends, and watch it disappear within minutes. Remember to make extra because everyone will be asking for seconds!
Here's an approximate nutritional breakdown for the Pepperoni Pizza Casserole recipe. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes:
Nutritional Information Pepperoni Pizza Casserole (per serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: ~450 kcal
- Protein: ~20g
- Carbohydrates: ~45g
- Dietary Fiber: ~3g
- Sugars: ~5g
- Fat: ~20g
- Saturated Fat: ~8g
- Cholesterol: ~45mg
- Sodium: ~1200mg
Please note that these values can change based on the type and brand of ingredients you use. It's a good idea to check the nutrition labels on the products you buy for a more accurate calculation, especially if you're following a specific dietary plan or have dietary restrictions.