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Pepperoni Pasta Bake

Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Pepperoni Pasta Bake, where pizza meets pasta in a cozy dish perfect for any occasion. With layers of tender pasta, rich sauce, pepperoni, and gooey cheese, this meal is quick to prepare and sure to please family and friends. Discover how to elevate your comfort food game with simple ingredients and customizable options. It's the ultimate dish for weeknight dinners or potlucks! #PepperoniPasta #ComfortFood #EasyRecipes #PastaBake #FamilyFavorites #YummyFood

Ingredients
  

8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini works best)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper, diced

1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 1/2 cups sliced pepperoni

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

      Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

        Combine Ingredients: In the skillet, add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

          Mix in Pasta and Pepperoni: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the tomato mixture. Fold in half of the sliced pepperoni and 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese. Stir until well combined.

            Assemble Bake: Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining pepperoni and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly across the top.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Servings: 6-8