Craving the irresistible flavors of pizza combined with the hearty satisfaction of pasta? This Pizza Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort dish that brings the best of both worlds together in one cheesy, saucy, and oh-so-delicious casserole. Loaded with tender pasta, savory tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, and all your favorite pizza toppings, this bake is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you want a cozy meal that pleases a crowd. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it’s a guaranteed winner that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Pizza Pasta Bake
Pizza flavors in a pasta dish: All your favorite toppings baked into cheesy pasta.
Comfort food classic: Warm, gooey, and satisfying every time.
Easy to prepare: Simple layering and baking make weeknight cooking a breeze.
Customizable: Add your favorite meats, veggies, or extra cheese.
Feeds a crowd: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Make-ahead friendly: Prepare in advance and bake when ready to serve.
Ingredients for Pizza Pasta Bake
Start with pasta that holds sauce beautifully, penne, rigatoni, or your favorite bite-sized shapes. Here’s what you’ll need:
Penne pasta: This tubular pasta holds onto the sauce beautifully, making every bite a flavor explosion.
Olive oil: A splash of this liquid gold adds richness and helps sauté the ingredients.
Italian sausage: The star protein! It brings a savory, spiced flavor that’s hard to resist.
Onion: Diced onions add sweetness and depth to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with a fragrant aroma that’s simply irresistible.
Bell pepper: Adds a pop of color and a slight crunch, balancing the dish’s textures.
Diced tomatoes: These provide a juicy base, adding moisture and a fresh taste.
Tomato sauce: A smooth layer of sauce ties everything together, creating that classic pizza flavor.
Dried oregano and basil: These herbs bring the essence of Italian cuisine right into your kitchen.
Red pepper flakes: Optional, but they add a delightful kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Sliced pepperoni: A must for pizza lovers! It adds a savory, slightly spicy touch.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey, melty cheese that makes this dish a true comfort food.
Grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this adds a nutty flavor and a touch of elegance.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in the dish.
Fresh basil leaves: Optional for garnish, they add a fresh, aromatic finish.
For those looking to mix things up, consider substituting the Italian sausage with a plant-based option or loading up on extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini. You can find the exact measurements for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Pizza Pasta Bake
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this delicious Pizza Pasta Bake! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown cheese topping.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Remember, you want it firm enough to hold up in the bake!
Step 3: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. The aroma will be irresistible!
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 3-4 minutes. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to your dish.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes. Let those flavors meld together!
Step 6: Mix Pasta and Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, sausage and vegetable mixture, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well. This is where the magic begins!
Step 7: Transfer to Baking Dish
Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and sliced pepperoni. It’s looking delicious already!
Step 8: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Keep an eye on it; you want that perfect melt!
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm and enjoy every cheesy bite!
Tips for Success
Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.
Feel free to customize the toppings—add your favorite veggies or switch up the cheese.
Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burning your mouth.
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the sauce.
Make it ahead of time and refrigerate; just bake it when you’re ready to serve!
Equipment Needed
Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works wonders for browning sausage and sautéing veggies.
9×13-inch baking dish: Any oven-safe dish will do if you don’t have this size.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining all those delicious ingredients.
Colander: Essential for draining the pasta after cooking.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for mixing and serving your cheesy masterpiece.
Variations
Vegetarian Delight: Swap the Italian sausage for a plant-based sausage or add extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a hearty, meatless option.
Cheesy Twist: Experiment with different cheese blends, such as provolone, cheddar, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free penne pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for those who love a bit of heat.
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can be added for a burst of flavor and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread for a classic pairing that everyone loves.
Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the bake.
Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of red wine, like Chianti, to complement the flavors.
Presentation: Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and aroma.
FAQs about Pizza Pasta Bake
Can I make Pizza Pasta Bake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve. This makes it a perfect option for busy weeknights or gatherings.
What can I substitute for Italian sausage?
If you’re looking for alternatives, try using ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian twist, plant-based sausage or a mix of your favorite vegetables works wonderfully!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. It’s just as delicious the next day!
Can I freeze Pizza Pasta Bake?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
What sides pair well with Pizza Pasta Bake?
Garlic bread and a fresh side salad are perfect companions. They balance the richness of the bake and add a refreshing touch to your meal.
Final Thoughts
Creating this Pizza Pasta Bake is more than just cooking; it’s about bringing people together. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone gathering around, eager to dig in. Each cheesy, flavorful bite is a reminder of cozy family dinners and laughter shared over a hearty meal. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or serving it at a gathering, this dish is sure to become a favorite. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the joy of cooking, and let this comforting recipe warm your heart and home. You won’t regret it!
Pizza Pasta Bake is a comforting dish that combines the flavors of pizza and pasta into a delicious baked meal.
Ingredients
Scale
8 ounces penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup sliced pepperoni
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, sausage and vegetable mixture, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and sliced pepperoni.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, substitute the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it entirely and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
Experiment with different cheese blends, such as provolone or cheddar, for a unique flavor twist.
