Twisty rotini pasta tossed with pizza sauce, pepperoni and gooey mozzarella, then topped with more cheese and crispy pepperoni slices. This pepperoni pizza casserole takes just five ingredients and 30 minutes, and kids absolutely love it.
Let’s talk about why it’s such a winner. It tastes exactly like pepperoni pizza, but it’s a filling pasta bake that’s easier to make than a pizza and feeds the whole family. Rotini is perfect here, because all those spirals trap the sauce and little bits of pepperoni.
Dicing the pepperoni that goes into the pasta is a small trick that makes a big difference. Every forkful gets some, and it’s easier for little ones to eat. Then the whole pepperoni slices go on top with a final layer of mozzarella and a sprinkle of oregano, so it looks just like a pizza coming out of the oven.
It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family movie nights, kids’ parties and potlucks.
Why You’ll Love This Pizza Casserole
- Just 5 ingredients: plus a sprinkle of oregano.
- Ready in 30 minutes: great for weeknights.
- Tastes like pizza: sauce, pepperoni and melty mozzarella.
- Kid-friendly: a guaranteed family favourite.
- Easy to customise: add your favourite pizza toppings.
Ingredient Notes & Easy Substitutions
Rotini – The spirals hold the sauce. Penne, ziti or shells also work.
Pizza sauce – Use your favourite jarred pizza sauce. Marinara works too.
Pepperoni – Diced for mixing in and whole slices for the top. Mini pepperoni saves you the dicing.
Mozzarella – Some goes into the pasta and the rest on top for that cheesy, golden finish.
Dried oregano – A classic pizza flavour sprinkled over the top.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pizza Casserole
1. Prep and cook the pasta
Heat the oven to 350°F and grease a casserole dish. Cook the rotini according to the package directions, then drain and return it to the pot.
2. Mix it up
Stir in the pizza sauce, diced pepperoni and 1 1/2 cups of mozzarella until everything is coated. Tip it into the casserole dish.
3. Top like a pizza
Sprinkle over the rest of the mozzarella, lay the whole pepperoni slices on top, and finish with a pinch of oregano.
4. Bake
Bake for 7 to 10 minutes, just until the cheese is melted. The pasta is already cooked, so it only needs a quick bake.
Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
Equipment
- Casserole dish
- Large pot
- Colander
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 24 oz pizza sauce
- 1 cup pepperoni diced (see Note 1)
- 1/2 cup whole pepperoni slices
- 2 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded, divided
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 350°F. Spray a casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and return it to the pot.
- Stir in the pizza sauce, diced pepperoni and 1 1/2 cups of the mozzarella, then pour into the casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup mozzarella over the top, add the whole pepperoni slices and sprinkle with the oregano.
- Bake for 7 to 10 minutes, until the cheese has melted. Serve.
Notes
- Pepperoni: Dicing the pepperoni that goes into the pasta makes it easier to eat. Mini pepperoni saves you the chopping.
- Nutrition: Estimated per serving from the ingredients, using part-skim mozzarella.
Nutrition
Tips for the Best Pizza Casserole
- Cook the pasta to al dente: it holds its shape when baked.
- Dice the pepperoni: every bite gets some.
- Don’t overbake: you’re just melting the cheese.
- Use freshly shredded mozzarella: it melts beautifully.
- Broil for a minute: if you’d like a bubbly, golden top.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: it can turn mushy.
- Too little sauce: use the full 24 ounces so it stays saucy.
- Baking too long: the pasta can dry out.
- Big pepperoni pieces in the pasta: dice them small.
Easy Ways to Change It Up
The recipe card is the original version. These are optional ideas:
- Supreme: add cooked sausage, peppers, onions, mushrooms and olives.
- Different pasta: penne, ziti or shells.
- Extra cheesy: add Parmesan or provolone.
- Turkey pepperoni: for a lighter option.
How to Serve Pizza Casserole
Serve hot with garlic bread or breadsticks and a simple Caesar or green salad. Extra pizza sauce on the side for dipping is a fun touch for kids.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Make ahead: assemble it, cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready. It may need a few extra minutes to heat through.
- Leftovers: store in an airtight container in the fridge and eat within a few days.
- Reheating: warm in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of sauce if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What pasta is best for pizza casserole?
Rotini is great because the spirals hold the sauce, but penne or ziti work too.
Can I use marinara instead of pizza sauce?
Yes. Marinara works well.
Can I add other pizza toppings?
Absolutely. Sausage, peppers, onions, mushrooms and olives are all great.
How long do I bake pizza casserole?
Just 7 to 10 minutes at 350°F, until the cheese has melted.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes. Assemble it, refrigerate, and bake when you’re ready, allowing a few extra minutes.
Cheesy, saucy and loaded with pepperoni, this pizza casserole is pizza night made easy.
Five ingredients, 30 minutes, and happy faces all round.
