There’s something nostalgic and satisfying about a meal that brings together everything I love in one dish—cheesy, saucy, hearty, and full of pizza flavor.
This pepperoni pizza pasta bake is my ultimate comfort food when I want something easy, cheesy, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table.
It’s like biting into your favorite slice of pizza—only baked into a warm pasta casserole!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No need to order pizza—this bake has all the flavors in one easy dish
Family favorite—adults and kids devour it every time
Great for busy weeknights or casual gatherings
Flexible—use your favorite pasta or pizza toppings
Leftovers taste even better the next day
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Penne pasta – A sturdy base that holds sauce beautifully
Cottage cheese – Adds creaminess and a mild tang
Marinara sauce – Use your favorite brand or homemade
Shredded mozzarella – For that irresistible cheese pull
Pepperoni slices – Classic pizza flavor in every bite
Black olives & green bell pepper – Brings brightness and crunch
Italian seasoning – A touch of herbs to tie it all together
Pro Tips Before You Start
Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue cooking in the oven
Use full-fat cottage cheese for best flavor and texture
Feel free to add mushrooms, onions, or sausage for extra toppings
Want it spicy? Add crushed red pepper or spicy pepperoni
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Pasta Bake
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil the penne according to package instructions until just al dente.
Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a large bowl, stir together the cottage cheese, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked pasta, sliced pepperoni, olives, and chopped green pepper into the sauce mixture.
Gently fold everything together.
Step 4: Assemble in Baking Dish
Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.
Step 5: Bake
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling at the edges.
Step 6: Serve
Remove from the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes, and serve hot with extra pepper flakes or Parmesan if desired!
What to Serve It With
A crisp Caesar salad
Garlic bread or buttery breadsticks
Roasted vegetables like zucchini or broccoli
A glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon
Variations / Substitutions
Use ricotta or cream cheese instead of cottage cheese
Swap pepperoni for Italian sausage or veggie toppings
Try rotini or rigatoni if you don’t have penne
Make it vegetarian by omitting pepperoni
Storage & Leftovers
Let the casserole cool completely before storing.
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freeze: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months
Reheat: Warm in the oven or microwave until heated through
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours.
Can I use other pasta shapes?
Absolutely—ziti, rotini, or even shells work great.
What if I don’t like cottage cheese?
Swap it with ricotta or a mix of ricotta and sour cream.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes—just leave out the pepperoni and add your favorite vegetables.
How do I keep the cheese from burning on top?
If the top starts browning too fast, cover loosely with foil while baking.
Is it spicy?
No, but you can add crushed red pepper or spicy sausage to turn up the heat.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes! Use a larger baking dish or two medium ones and adjust the baking time slightly.
Final Thoughts
This pepperoni pizza pasta bake combines the best parts of pizza night and pasta night into one irresistible dish.
It’s hearty, flavorful, and loaded with gooey cheese—perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you just want something comforting after a long day.
Once you try it, you’ll come back to it again and again.
Pepperoni Pizza Pasta Bake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta according to package instructions, then drain.
- In a large bowl, mix cottage cheese, marinara, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Fold in cooked pasta, pepperoni, olives, and bell pepper.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Top with shredded mozzarella.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/pepperoni-pizza-pasta-bake/
Notes
- Use turkey pepperoni or plant-based pepperoni for a lighter version.
- Feel free to swap penne with rotini or rigatoni.
- Add extra veggies like mushrooms or onions for a loaded pizza vibe.
