Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a fun and tasty twist on classic pizza that you can enjoy as a comforting, cheesy baked dish. It’s packed with layers of hearty pasta, lots of melted cheese, zesty tomato sauce, and of course, plenty of pepperoni slices that give it that perfect pizza flavor. The crispy, golden top makes it feel like a warm hug on a plate.
I love making this casserole when I want all the flavors of pizza but in an easier, hands-off way. It’s one of those meals that comes together quickly but feels special enough to share with family or friends. I usually make a big batch so there are leftovers—this dish tastes amazing even the next day and reheats like a dream.
My favorite way to enjoy Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is with a simple green salad on the side and maybe a little garlic bread if I’m feeling fancy. It’s a great meal for busy weeknights when you want something filling and satisfying without too much fuss. Plus, it’s always a hit with kids and grown-ups alike!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rotini works great here because its twists hold the sauce well. You can swap for penne, rigatoni, or even macaroni—whatever you have on hand.
Marinara Sauce: A good pizza or marinara sauce is important for that tomato flavor. If you don’t have store-bought, canned crushed tomatoes mixed with garlic and Italian herbs work too.
Ricotta Cheese: Adds creaminess that balances the tangy sauce. No ricotta? Cottage cheese or cream cheese are okay alternatives, but ricotta’s texture is best.
Mozzarella Cheese: Use fresh shredded mozzarella if you can. It melts beautifully and gives that gooey pizza feel. For a different twist, try a mix with provolone or cheddar.
Pepperoni: Classic pepperoni gives a spicy, savory kick. Feel free to use turkey pepperoni or omit if you want a vegetarian dish—add extra veggies instead.
How Do I Get the Cheese Melty and Golden on Top?
This part makes the casserole look and taste like pizza! To get bubbly, golden cheese on top, use these tips:
- Bake uncovered so the cheese can brown instead of steaming under a lid.
- Use a mix of mozzarella cheese and a bit of Parmesan for flavor and that nice golden color.
- Keep an eye on the casserole toward the end of baking—if the cheese isn’t browning as you’d like, switch to the oven’s broil setting for 1-2 minutes but watch carefully so it doesn’t burn.
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes. It helps the cheese set, making the casserole easier to scoop and enjoy without everything sliding apart.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – perfect for boiling pasta evenly without spills.
- Colander – helps you drain pasta quickly and easily.
- Mixing bowl – where you’ll combine all your ingredients smoothly.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – roomy enough for layering your casserole ingredients.
- Spatula or large spoon – great for mixing and spreading ingredients evenly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pepperoni for cooked Italian sausage for a meaty, bold flavor.
- Add sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies and texture.
- Mix in fresh basil or oregano for a brighter, herbal note.
- Use a combo of mozzarella and cheddar cheese for a sharper, gooey bite.
Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 12 oz (about 3 cups) rotini or any short pasta
- 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or cooking spray (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, 25 minutes to bake, plus a 5-10 minute resting time before serving. All in all, you can have a delicious Pepperoni Pizza Casserole on your table in around 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Pasta:
Boil water in a large pot and add a pinch of salt. Cook the rotini or pasta of choice according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set it aside.
3. Mix Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara or pizza sauce, ricotta cheese, 1½ cups of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, sliced pepperoni, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything gently until the mixture is evenly combined.
4. Layer the Casserole:
Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the remaining mozzarella cheese over this layer. Then add the rest of the pasta mixture on top, spreading evenly. Finally, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
5. Add Pepperoni and Bake:
Arrange extra pepperoni slices evenly over the cheese layer. Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Rest and Serve:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps it set and makes serving easier. Then scoop up your delicious Pepperoni Pizza Casserole and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Pepperoni for This Casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen pepperoni, but be sure to thaw it completely before adding to the casserole. Simply leave it in the fridge overnight or thaw quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. This helps the pepperoni cook evenly without excess moisture.
Can I Make Pepperoni Pizza Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through or microwave individual servings until hot.
What Can I Serve with Pepperoni Pizza Casserole?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for freshness. Garlic bread or breadsticks are great additions if you want extra carbs and garlic flavor.
