Pizza Pasta Bake

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🍕 Pizza Pasta Bake

A bubbly, cheesy, one-pan wonder that tastes like your favorite slice.

  • Prep time: 15 minutes

  • Cook time: 25 minutes

  • Servings: 6-8 people

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (16 oz) Rotini or Penne pasta

  • 1 lb Ground Italian sausage (or ground beef)

  • 24 oz Marinara or Pizza sauce

  • 3 cups Shredded Mozzarella cheese

  • 4 oz Sliced pepperoni (mini or regular)

  • 1 tsp Dried oregano

  • 1/2 tsp Garlic powder

  • Optional: Sliced black olives, green peppers, or mushrooms.

Instructions

  1. Prep the Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil the pasta in salted water for 2 minutes less than the package instructions (it should be very firm/al dente). Drain and set aside.

  2. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned. Drain any excess grease.

  3. Combine: In a large mixing bowl (or right in the pot you boiled the pasta in), toss the cooked pasta, browned meat, sauce, oregano, garlic powder, and half of the pepperoni.

  4. Layer: Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.

  5. Top: Cover the top with the shredded mozzarella and the remaining pepperoni slices.

  6. Bake: Place in the oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and starting to turn golden brown.

  7. Serve: Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.

💡 Chef’s Tips & Notes

  • Al Dente is Key: Because the pasta sits in sauce and goes into the oven, it continues to cook. If you boil it until it’s soft, the final dish will be mushy.

  • The Cheese Factor: For the best “cheese pull,” grate your own mozzarella from a block. Pre-shredded cheese is coated in potato starch to prevent clumping, which stops it from melting as smoothly.

  • Veggie Loaded: If you want to sneak in nutrients, sauté finely chopped bell peppers and onions with the meat.

🥗 Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Approximate values based on 8 servings:

  • Calories: 480 kcal

  • Protein: 24g

  • Fat: 26g

  • Carbs: 42g

  • Fiber: 3g

✨ Benefits

  • Kid-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters usually can’t say no to the pizza flavor profile.

  • Meal Prep Champ: This dish actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.

  • High Protein: Between the meat and the cheese, it’s a very satiating meal.

❓ Common Questions (Q&A)

Q: Can I make this vegetarian? A: Absolutely. Swap the sausage for a meat alternative or double up on mushrooms and bell peppers. Use a “meat-style” marinara for extra depth.

Q: Can I freeze this? A: Yes! Assemble the dish but do not bake it. Wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Q: What should I serve on the side? A: Since this is quite heavy, a simple Caesar salad or roasted broccoli with lemon helps balance the richness.

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