Easy Cheesy Pizza Pasta Bake – A Simple & Delicious Dinner
Craving a comforting and flavorful meal? This Easy Cheesy Pizza Pasta Bake is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Packed with savory flavors and cheesy goodness, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
About Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, deseeded and diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (14.5 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 12 ounces dried pasta (penne, rotini, or shells work well)
- 2 ounces pepperoni slices
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, torn into pieces
Instructions:
- Prep the Sauce: In a large skillet or pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and oregano, bring to a simmer, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the Pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Assemble and Bake: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the tomato sauce. Pour the mixture into a lightly greased baking dish. Top evenly with the pepperoni slices and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the pasta bake cool slightly before serving. Enjoy hot with a side salad or your favorite vegetables.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for some extra heat.
- Veggie Boost: Add chopped mushrooms, spinach, or olives to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Make it Meatless: Substitute the pepperoni with extra vegetables or use plant-based sausage.
- Leftovers: Store any leftover pasta bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.