Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

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Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

Introduction:
Combine the flavors of everyone’s favorite pizza with the convenience of a casserole in this delicious recipe for Pepperoni Pizza Casserole. Packed with layers of pasta, savory sauce, gooey cheese, and zesty pepperoni, this easy-to-make dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether enjoyed for a weeknight dinner or served at a casual gathering, Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this comforting and flavorful casserole!

Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces rotini or penne pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1 cup sliced pepperoni
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Chopped fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
  2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the sauce for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
  6. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
  7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
  8. Transfer half of the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
  9. Sprinkle half of the sliced pepperoni over the pasta mixture in the baking dish.
  10. Repeat layers with the remaining pasta mixture and sliced pepperoni.
  11. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese.
  12. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
  13. Remove the foil and bake the casserole for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
  14. Remove the Pepperoni Pizza Casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
  15. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley, if desired, before serving.

Conclusion:
With its layers of pasta, savory sauce, gooey cheese, and zesty pepperoni, Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any pizza lover. Whether enjoyed for a family dinner or served at a casual gathering, this easy-to-make casserole is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings for the classic flavors of pepperoni pizza. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the irresistible taste of homemade Pepperoni Pizza Casserole!

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