Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a fun and comforting dish that feels like your favorite pizza in one easy-to-make meal. It’s packed with layers of gooey cheese, tasty pepperoni slices, hearty pasta, and a rich pizza sauce that brings everything together perfectly.
I love making this casserole when I want all the flavors of pizza without the hassle of rolling out dough or waiting for delivery. It’s a great way to satisfy pizza cravings, and the pepperoni adds just the right amount of spicy, savory goodness. Plus, it’s super simple to customize—you can add veggies or extra cheese if you like.
My favorite way to serve this is straight from the oven while it’s bubbling hot, with a little sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top for a pop of color. It’s a dish that the whole family enjoys, and I find it even tastes better the next day for leftovers. Trust me, this is a keeper for those nights when you want something cozy and delicious without much fuss.
Bake, Serve, Wear the Vibe 👕
Editor-picked tees our Oven To Fork readers love.
We may earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: Rotini holds sauce beautifully with its spiral shape. You can swap it for penne, rigatoni, or any pasta you enjoy. Just cook it al dente to avoid a mushy casserole.
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: These add hearty protein and flavor. If you prefer, skip the meat for a vegetarian version or try ground turkey or plant-based sausage alternatives.
Marinara or Pizza Sauce: This is the base flavor of the dish. Use your favorite jarred sauce or homemade for extra freshness. Tomato basil sauce works well, too.
Mozzarella Cheese: A must for that melty, stretchy texture! Whole milk mozzarella melts best, but part-skim works if you want less fat. You can also mix in provolone for extra richness.
Pepperoni: It gives the casserole its signature zing. Use turkey pepperoni for a leaner option, or add veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers to boost nutrition.
How Can I Get the Cheese Topping Perfectly Golden and Gooey?
Getting that golden, bubbly cheese on top is key to a great casserole. Here’s how:
- Use plenty of shredded mozzarella for a rich, gooey melt across the casserole.
- Spread the cheese evenly so it melts uniformly and forms a nice crust.
- Add the pepperoni slices on top before baking to let them crisp up without burning.
- Bake uncovered at 375°F for 20-25 minutes to allow the cheese to bubble and brown.
- If after baking you want more browning, place casserole under the broiler for 1-2 minutes—watch it closely to avoid burning!
Letting the casserole rest 5 minutes after baking helps the cheese set slightly for easier serving. These small tips help your casserole look and taste just like pizza fresh from the oven.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling the pasta; a bigger pot helps prevent sticking.
- Large skillet – perfect for sautéing onions, garlic, and browning the meat.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring and breaking up the meat.
- 9×13 inch casserole dish – roomy enough to bake all the pasta and cheese evenly.
- Cheese grater (if using block cheese) – fresh shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef with Italian sausage or ground turkey for different protein flavors.
- Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to sneak in extra veggies and add texture.
- Mix in some red pepper flakes for a mild spicy kick that pairs well with the pepperoni.
- Try a mix of mozzarella and provolone cheese for a creamier, richer melt.
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta & Meat:
- 12 oz rotini or pasta of choice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
Sauce & Seasonings:
- 3 cups marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a little heat
Cheese & Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni (plus extra for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. Plan for a short resting time of 5 minutes after baking, so in total, you’ll spend around 40 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pasta:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with olive oil or cooking spray. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until just al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Flavor Base:
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the diced onions and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. If you’re using ground beef or Italian sausage, add it now and cook thoroughly, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add Sauce and Seasonings:
Pour in the marinara or pizza sauce. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to bring the flavors together.
4. Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Cheese:
In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the meat sauce mixture, half of the sliced pepperoni, 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella, and the Parmesan cheese. Stir well so the pasta is fully coated with sauce and cheese.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Spread the pasta mixture evenly into your prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top and arrange the remaining pepperoni slices evenly over the cheese layer.
6. Bake and Serve:
Bake the casserole uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you like, and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Pepperoni or Pasta?
Yes! If using frozen pepperoni, thaw it in the fridge or at room temperature before adding to the casserole to ensure even cooking. For frozen cooked pasta, thaw completely and drain any excess moisture to avoid a soggy dish.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through and bubbly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions, stirring halfway for even heating.
What Can I Serve with Pepperoni Pizza Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a simple side of roasted veggies also complement it nicely.
