Introduction

If you're a fan of both pasta and pizza, then this Pepperoni Pizza Pasta is the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings. It takes the classic flavors of pizza and combines them with the comfort of pasta, creating a delicious and hearty meal that everyone will love.

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be made in under an hour, making it ideal for weeknights or even gatherings with friends. With gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, and a rich tomato sauce, it promises to be a hit at the dinner table.

Perfect for both kids and adults, this recipe allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Let’s dive into this delightful pasta dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 oz sliced pepperoni
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions & Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the bell pepper is tender.
5. Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta with the sauce and half of the pepperoni slices. Toss to coat all the pasta evenly.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining pepperoni slices and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Pepperoni Pizza Pasta hot!

FAQs

What can I do if my pasta is too dry?

If your pasta seems dry, add a splash of water or extra tomato sauce to moisten it before baking.

Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat or gluten-free pasta; just adjust the cooking time as necessary.

What if my cheese isn't melting properly?

If your cheese is not melting well, try covering the dish with aluminum foil for the first part of baking.

Can I add other toppings like mushrooms or olives?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any toppings or vegetables you enjoy in your pizza.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.

What can I use instead of pepperoni?

You can substitute pepperoni with cooked sausage, diced ham, or even a variety of vegetables.

What if I want a spicier version?

For more heat, try adding diced jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Conclusion

Pepperoni Pizza Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together all the beloved flavors of pizza into a comforting pasta experience. It's an easy recipe that allows you to personalize according to your taste preferences, making it great for family dinners or casual get-togethers.

With its cheesy, savory goodness, this meal is sure to please everyone at your table. Don't hesitate to get creative with toppings and dressings to make it your own—enjoy every bite!

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Irresistible Peanut Butter Chocolate Caramel Cookies

Peanut Butter Chocolate Caramel Cookies | Easy & Irresistible Recipe made approachable with clear cues, pantry staples, and flexible swaps.

Ingredients

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup caramel bits
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large bowl, mix together the peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
• Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
• Stir in the baking soda until fully incorporated.
• Fold in the chocolate chips and caramel bits gently.
• Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
• Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Notes

Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.

For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.

Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.