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Cheesy Beef and Pepperoni Pasta Bake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.8 from 25 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

A hearty and comforting Cheesy Beef and Pepperoni Pasta Bake featuring tender pasta, savory ground beef, zesty marinara, and layers of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, perfect for a satisfying family dinner.

Ingredients

Pasta and Sauce

  • 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta
  • 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Meat and Vegetables

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Cheese and Garnish

  • 1 cup sliced pepperoni
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Oven and Pasta: Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook Beef Mixture: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion; cook until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess grease if needed.
  3. Add Garlic and Sauce: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the sauce for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
  4. Combine Pasta and Meat Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce and half of the sliced pepperoni, mixing well to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
  5. Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the top. Arrange the remaining pepperoni slices decoratively on the cheese layer.
  6. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
  7. Rest and Garnish: Remove from oven and let the pasta bake rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired to add freshness and color.

Notes

  • For extra cheesiness, add a layer of ricotta or cottage cheese between the pasta and sauce before baking.
  • This dish can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake, making it perfect for meal prep.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/cheesy-beef-and-pepperoni-pasta-bake-recipe/