Cheesy Baked Pizza Pasta

As the winter chill sets in, there’s nothing quite like gathering around a table filled with comfort food that warms you from the inside out. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe that’s perfect for feeding a hungry crowd: Cheesy Baked Pizza Pasta with Italian Sausage and Pepperoni.

Cheesy Baked Pizza Pasta with Italian Sausage and Pepperoni

This has all the delicious flavors of your favorite spicy pepperoni and Italian sausage pizza, but in pasta form. We’re taking those familiar, beloved tastes and transforming them into a warm, comforting bake. And, to keep things a little on the healthier side, I’ve thrown in some fresh spinach. It’s like sneaking greens into your diet without anyone noticing!

Cheesy Baked Pasta Tips

Baked pasta dishes can range from delightfully rich and tasty to disappointingly soggy and overcooked. Here’s how to ensure yours turns out perfectly:

  • Cook Pasta to Al Dente: Start by cooking your pasta only until it reaches the al dente stage. Remember, it will continue to cook in the oven.
  • Baking Time and Temperature: Keep the baking time brief—ideally no more than 20 minutes. Use a hot oven to maintain moisture.
  • Choosing the Right Dish: Opt for a wide, shallow baking dish over a narrow, deep one. This choice helps the pasta cook evenly and quickly, while also providing more surface for a deliciously crispy top layer.
  • Veggie-Free Option: If you’re not in the mood for veggies, this recipe can be made without the onions, spinach and bell pepper mixture and will still taste great. The sausage, pepperoni, and cheese provide plenty of flavor on their own.

My spicy baked pizza pasta is the ultimate comfort food. The fiery kick from the sausage and pepperoni, the richness of the cheeses, and the subtle heat from the Calabrian chiles make this baked pasta a standout. (Pro tip: My favorite is the Trader Joe’s Italian Bomba Hot Pepper Sauce).

It’s perfect for those winter evenings when you want something hearty, deliciously comforting, and sure to please everyone at your table. 

I hope you can gather your friends or family and let this Cheesy Baked Pasta with Italian Sausage and Pepperoni be the star of your winter feast. Let me know what you think with a rating and review!

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Cheesy Baked Pizza Pasta Recipe

Cheesy Baked Pizza Pasta

Recipe by Jason Hill – CookingSessions.com
Imagine all the delicious flavors of your favorite spicy pepperoni and Italian sausage pizza, but now in pasta form. We're taking those familiar, beloved tastes and transforming them into a warm, comforting bake. And, to keep things a little on the healthier side, we've thrown in some fresh spinach. It's like sneaking greens into your diet without anyone noticing!
No ratings yet
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8

Ingredients
  

  • 20 oz. spicy Italian turkey sausage casings removed
  • 45 oz. Rao’s marinara sauce about 1 1/2 jars
  • 8 oz. pepperoni or spicy salami
  • 1 pound bite-size pasta cooked al dente
  • 1/2 onion diced
  • 2 cups chopped spinach optional
  • 1 bell pepper diced
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 2 tablespoons Calabrian Chile paste optional
  • 1 1/2 cups grated parmesan
  • 16 oz. fresh mozzarella cubed
  • Calabrian Chile Oil or olive oil, for drizzling

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F and give your baking dish a light coat of olive oil.
  • Mix up the ricotta blend: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, egg yolk, ½ cup of grated parmesan, and if you’re feeling adventurous, the Calabrian Chile paste. Season this mixture with a bit of salt and pepper, and mix until it’s all nicely blended.
  • Sauté your sausage: Cook the Italian sausage in 2 tablespoons of olive oil until it’s nice and browned. Drain the juices and set aside in a bowl or plate.
  • Veggie time: In the clean pan, sauté your onion and bell pepper with a little olive oil. Add the chopped spinach, cover, and let it wilt down.
  • Pasta to the rescue: Boil your pasta in salted water until it’s just al dente, then drain it.
  • Combine: Mix the cooked pasta with the ricotta mixture, another 1/2 cup of parmesan, the sausage, and the sautéed veggies. Give it a good gentle toss.
  • Sauce and cheese: Pour in the heated marinara sauce and add the cubed mozzarella, mixing everything just enough to distribute the cheese.
  • Bake to perfection: Transfer this delightful concoction into your baking dish. Top it off with the remaining parmesan, pepperoni, and extra mozzarella if you’re feeling extra cheesy. Drizzle with Calabrian Chile oil for that final touch of heat and flavor.
  • Into the oven: Bake, uncovered, for about 20 minutes, or until everything is bubbling and the top is nicely browned. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and the cheese set.
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Keyword bell peppers, Italian recipes, Italian sausage, mozzarella, pasta, pepperoni, pizza
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AboutJason Hill

Hi, I’m Jason Hill, host of YouTube’s “Chef Tips” series. I graduated from culinary school in 1998, and gained my experience working the lines in Southern California. I launched my cooking videos in 2007. I love sharing quick and easy recipes that get people back in the kitchen.

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