Easy Baked Pizza Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving something that tastes like your favorite pizza but in a cozy, comforting pasta form, you’re going to adore this Easy Baked Pizza Pasta Recipe. It’s one of those magical dishes that bring all the best pizza flavors together with cheesy, saucy pasta baked to bubbly perfection. I absolutely love how this turns out every time – it’s quick, fuss-free, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. So grab your apron and let me walk you through making this fan-freaking-tastic baked pizza pasta that’s sure to become a family fave!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Easy Baked Pizza Pasta Recipe is how the ingredients come together effortlessly to create a hearty, satisfying meal. Keep an eye out for a good quality pizza sauce—it makes a huge flavor difference. Also, pick a pasta that holds sauce well like rotini, which is my go-to for this dish.

• Ground beef or Italian sausage: I love using sausage for extra flavor, but beef works great if you prefer milder taste.
• Onion: Diced onion adds a subtle sweetness and texture that complements the sauce perfectly.
• Garlic: Just a clove; it melds beautifully without overpowering the dish.
• Italian seasoning: This blend boosts those classic pizza vibes.
• Pizza sauce: Choose a jarred sauce that you love—homemade works, too!
• Water: A splash to loosen up the sauce and help it coat the pasta nicely.
• Rotini pasta: Twisted shapes catch all that cheesy sauce wonderfully.
• Mozzarella cheese: Use fresh shredded mozzarella for that melty, gooey goodness.
• Pepperoni slices: Pepperoni gives it that iconic pizza flair, but feel free to swap or add other toppings.

Variations

One of the things I really enjoy about this Easy Baked Pizza Pasta Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. Whether you want to kick up the heat, make it meatless, or sneak in extra veggies, here are a few ways I like to switch it up.

• Meat alternatives: Try ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a leaner or vegetarian version—I did this once for my nephew, and he couldn’t tell the difference.
• Extra veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach with the beef for more texture and nutrients.
• Cheese combos: Mix mozzarella with provolone or parmesan for a richer cheese layer.
• Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage to give it a bit of a kick.

How to Make Easy Baked Pizza Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the pasta just right

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook 3 cups of rotini pasta according to the package instructions—usually about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Don’t overcook; you want a little bite because it’ll continue cooking in the oven. Drain the pasta well and set it aside.

Step 2: Brown the beef and build flavor

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook your ground beef (or Italian sausage) along with the diced onion, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Break up the meat as it cooks so it browns evenly. Once it’s no longer pink and the onions are tender, drain any excess grease—this keeps the dish from being too oily.

Step 3: Combine sauce, pasta, and toppings

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, mix together the pizza sauce and water—adding water helps the sauce coat every bite smoothly. Stir in the cooked pasta, half the mozzarella, the cooked beef mixture, and half of the pepperoni slices (cut in half for better distribution). Mix everything gently but thoroughly.

Step 4: Bake to bubbly, cheesy perfection

Spray a 9×9 or 11×7-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. Pour in your pasta mixture and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top, then arrange the rest of the pepperoni slices on top for that signature look and flavor. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.

How to Serve Easy Baked Pizza Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

I love sprinkling a little fresh chopped basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and brightness. If you’re feeling cheesy, a light dusting of grated Parmesan makes it even more irresistible. Sometimes, I add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle heat boost.

Side Dishes

Since this pasta is hearty, I keep sides simple. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette are my go-to’s because you can’t beat extra cheesy carbs. Steamed broccoli or roasted veggies also pair nicely for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like assembling this recipe in individual ramekins—makes for super cute, personalized servings. You could even sprinkle some edible gold dust for a fun twist. Another idea is to serve alongside a charcuterie platter with salami, cheese, and olives for a pizza party vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually let the baked pizza pasta cool completely, then transfer individual portions to airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days without losing flavor or texture. Just make sure to cover it tightly so the pasta doesn’t dry out.

Freezing

This recipe freezes surprisingly well! I freeze it in meal-sized portions wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil. When I’m ready to enjoy, I’ll thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. Freezing saves me so much time on busy weeks.

Reheating

To bring leftovers back to life, I pop them in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the cheese melts again. If you’re in a rush, the microwave works too—just cover loosely to keep moisture in. Adding a few drops of water helps keep it from drying out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Easy Baked Pizza Pasta Recipe has become one of my absolute go-tos when I want something comforting without the hassle. It’s a total crowd-pleaser that’s flexible enough to suit whatever ingredients you have on hand or whatever mood you’re in. I’m pretty sure after trying it once, you’ll want to keep it in your regular dinner rotation the same way my family does. So go ahead—give it a try and enjoy that satisfying, bubbly slice-of-pizza-in-pasta-form goodness!

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