If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that’s bursting with bold flavors and cheesy goodness, look no further than this Cheesy Beef and Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that combines savory ground beef, zesty pepperoni, melty mozzarella, and creamy cheddar layered over perfectly cooked rotini pasta, all smothered in a rich marinara sauce. This pasta bake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that melds classic Italian-American flavors into one irresistible casserole you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Cheesy Beef and Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe is surprisingly simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of flavors, textures, and vibrant colors. From the tender pasta to the savory meats and gooey cheeses, every element shines on its own and better together.
- Rotini pasta (8 ounces): The spirals are perfect for catching sauce and cheese in every bite.
- Ground beef (1 pound): Adds hearty richness and a savory base for the bake.
- Kosher salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances the flavors of the beef and pasta without overpowering.
- Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Just a touch for subtle warmth and depth.
- Pepperoni slices (1 cup): Brings a spicy, meaty punch and a fantastic texture contrast.
- Mozzarella cheese (2 cups, shredded): Melts beautifully to create that gooey, stringy cheese pull we all love.
- Mild cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded): Adds a creamy tang and golden color.
- Marinara sauce (24 ounces): Infuses every layer with bright tomato flavor and herbs.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A fragrant blend that ties all the ingredients together.
How to Make Cheesy Beef and Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prep Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure your cheesy masterpiece releases easily after baking.
Step 2: Cook Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add your ground beef and season with kosher salt and pepper. Cook it thoroughly, breaking it up as it browns, until there’s no pink left—about 8 to 10 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess grease for a leaner, less oily bake.
Step 3: Combine Key Ingredients
Using the same skillet for flavor foundation, add the perfectly cooked rotini pasta, pepperoni slices, half of your shredded mozzarella, all the cheddar, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning. Stir until everything is well incorporated and the pasta is nicely coated in the rich sauce.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the cheesy beef and pepperoni mixture to your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top to create that golden, bubbly cheese crust. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is hot and irresistibly bubbly.
Step 5: Rest and Ready to Serve
Once out of the oven, allow the bake to rest for a few minutes so it sets just right. This makes serving easier and makes sure every bite holds together. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you like a touch of color and freshness.
How to Serve Cheesy Beef and Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil leaves not only brightens up your Cheesy Beef and Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe but also adds a hint of herbal freshness to balance the rich cheese and meats. You could even dust a bit of freshly grated Parmesan for an extra punch of umami.
Side Dishes
This dish is a full meal on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some garlicky roasted vegetables. These sides add a crunch and fresh contrast to the creamy, cheesy pasta goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun family dinner, serve this pasta bake straight from the dish, encouraging everyone to dig in family-style. Want to elevate it for company? Plate individual portions with a drizzle of extra marinara and fresh herbs on top, serving alongside warm garlic bread or cheesy stuffed breadsticks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Beef and Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, tightly covered or stored in an airtight container to maintain moisture and flavor. It makes for an easy lunch or quick dinner the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this pasta bake freezes wonderfully. Divide it into single portions or freeze the whole casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container. It will stay delicious for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly, about 20 minutes. For quicker reheating, the microwave works well, but the oven helps keep the cheese texture perfect and the edges slightly crispy again.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta for the bake?
Absolutely! While rotini is ideal for catching sauce, penne, rigatoni, or shells are great alternatives. Just cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t become mushy during baking.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap out the ground beef and pepperoni for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant, and add plant-based sausage alternatives if you like. Just ensure whatever substitutes you use are cooked before baking.
How spicy is the pepperoni in this dish?
Pepperoni typically has a mild to moderate spice level that adds warmth but not overwhelming heat, balancing well with the creamy cheeses and savory beef.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance and bake later?
Definitely! You can assemble the entire pasta bake and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it comes straight from the fridge.
What cheese combinations work best for this recipe?
Mozzarella and mild cheddar complement each other perfectly here, but feel free to experiment by adding provolone, Parmesan, or even a little spicy pepper jack if you want a flavor twist.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Beef and Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe is a total game-changer for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. It’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures that feels both indulgent and homey. Trust me, once you make it, this cozy, cheesy, meaty pasta bake will become a cherished favorite in your recipe rotation. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy pure comfort in every bite!
Print
Cheesy Beef and Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Beef and Pepperoni Pasta Bake is a deliciously comforting casserole that combines al dente rotini pasta with savory ground beef, spicy pepperoni slices, and a rich blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Baked in a marinara sauce seasoned with Italian herbs, this hearty dish is perfect for a family dinner or gathering, delivering a warm, cheesy, and flavorful meal in about 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Pastas and Meats
- 8 ounces rotini pasta, cooked al dente
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup (138 g) pepperoni slices
Cheeses
- 2 cups (226 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded (divided)
- 1 cup (113 g) mild cheddar cheese, shredded
Sauce and Seasonings
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Nonstick cooking spray (for greasing the baking dish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Season it with ½ teaspoon kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Cook until no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Remove from heat and drain any excess grease.
- Combine Ingredients: Using the same skillet, add the cooked rotini pasta, pepperoni slices, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning. Mix all ingredients thoroughly to evenly distribute flavors.
- Bake: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, hot, and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the pasta bake rest for a few minutes to set. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- Cook pasta al dente according to package instructions to prevent it from becoming mushy after baking.
- Drain excess grease from the cooked beef to reduce fat content and avoid a greasy casserole.
- You can substitute pepperoni with sliced cooked sausage or omit it for a milder flavor.
- For extra flavor, add minced garlic or chopped onions when cooking the ground beef.
- This dish can be made ahead by assembling it and refrigerating for up to 24 hours before baking; add extra baking time if cold from the fridge.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
