If you’re a fan of both pizza and pasta, our delicious pizza pasta recipe allows you to savor the best of both worlds in one flavorful dish. This delightful fusion combines the savory flavors of a cheesy pizza with the hearty satisfaction of pasta, making it the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining friends, this easy pizza pasta recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Growing up, weekend dinners at my grandmother’s house were a special treat. She would whip up a dish that combined all our favorite ingredients into one sensational meal, something she liked to call “pizza pasta surprise.” It was a hit at every family gathering, and the memory of its rich, savory aroma filling the kitchen still lingers with me today. I’ve recreated this beloved recipe, adding a few modern twists while maintaining that cherished, homely essence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fusion Delight: Combines two classic favorites—pizza and pasta—into one harmonious dish.
- Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of prep and cook time, it’s perfect for busy nights.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to suit various tastes and dietary needs.
- Kid-Friendly: A surefire hit for family meals with flavors everyone loves.
Ingredients Notes
This recipe calls for everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. For the pasta, use your favorite shape—penne and fusilli work exceptionally well. For the cheese, a mix of mozzarella and parmesan provides the best melt and flavor. Feel free to add any of your favorite pizza toppings, like pepperoni, olives, or green peppers.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant and golden.
Step 3
Add in your choice of marinara or pizza sauce, followed by your selected toppings like pepperoni or sautéed mushrooms. Stir well to combine.
Step 4
Mix the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Transfer the mixture to a large baking dish.
Step 5
Top with grated mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Rest for a few minutes before serving.
Storage Options
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This dish also freezes well—simply portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, skip the pepperoni and add vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms. Want a gluten-free option? Use gluten-free pasta. For a spicy kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This pizza pasta dish is perfect for a lunch or casual dinner. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a slice of garlic bread for a complete meal. It’s the ideal dish for a cozy night in or when hosting a casual dinner party with friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, absolutely! You can easily swap out any meat toppings for more vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or even artichokes. Consider adding some extra cheese or a sprinkle of Italian herbs to amp up the flavors if you’re omitting meats like pepperoni.
What type of pasta works best with this recipe? The beauty of this pizza pasta recipe is its versatility. While penne and fusilli are ideal choices due to their ability to hold sauce, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent overcooking.
Can I prepare this dish in advance? Yes, it’s a great make-ahead meal! Assemble the dish right up until the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold to ensure it’s heated through evenly.
Pizza Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta use your preferred type
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup pepperoni slices optional
- 0.25 cup sliced black olives
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat. Add the cooked pasta and stir to coat.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top, followed by the pepperoni slices and olives. Cover and cook until the cheese is melted.
