Name: Pizza Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 0 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Yield: 6
Ingredients: - ½ lb. ground beef; - ½ lb. ground sausage; - 1 small yellow onion, diced; - 1 small green bell pepper; - ½ cup beef broth; - 3 cloves garlic, minced; - 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce; - 1 teaspoon hot sauce; - 32 oz. marinara sauce; - 8 oz. pizza sauce; - ¾ lb. penne; - ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated; - 2 ½ cups whole milk/low moisture mozzarella, shredded; - 25 slices pepperoni; - 1 teaspoon dried oregano; - 1 teaspoon dried basil; - ½ teaspoon garlic salt; - 1 pinch red pepper flakes

The first time I tried a fusion of pizza and pasta, it was love at first bite. This delightful dish, Pizza Pasta, combines the gooey cheese and tangy sauce of a classic pizza with the comforting textures of perfectly cooked pasta. It promises an irresistible experience, bringing together the best of both culinary worlds. Imagine the rich aroma filling your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table.

Once, while hosting a small gathering, I decided to make Pizza Pasta. As the cheesy goodness bubbled in the oven, the savory scent wafted through the air, sparking nostalgia and excitement among friends. That evening, laughter and stories intermingled with the delicious feast, creating memories as warm and inviting as the dish itself.

The journey of pizza pasta: where flavors meet

Pizza Pasta is a delightful fusion born from Italy’s rich culinary tapestry. This recipe cleverly combines two beloved dishes: the hearty flavors of pizza with the comforting textures of pasta. Originally, it emerged as a family-style dish to use up pizza toppings and leftover pasta. Over time, it’s evolved into a customizable classic, with endless topping combinations. What’s unique is its versatility—it represents the playful spirit of Italian cooking, inviting home chefs to experiment and enjoy each bite.

What’s in the mix for your pizza pasta?

Creating a mouthwatering Pizza Pasta is all about combining hearty flavors with a delightful twist. Each ingredient here plays its part to make that happen. From savory meats to gooey cheese, every element adds its magic, and I’ve got tips to make your cooking experience a breeze.

Ground Beef: 🍖 Bringing richness and depth to the dish, ground beef offers a savory base. If you’re looking to switch things up, ground turkey can be a leaner alternative, just keep an eye on the flavor. I find grass-fed beef brings a more robust taste.
Ground Sausage: 🌶️ Whether mild, sweet, or hot, Italian sausage gives each bite a kick of flavor. I often go for hot if I’m feeling adventurous. Try to opt for locally made sausages; they tend to be fresher and more flavorful.
Yellow Onion: 🧅 This small yet mighty ingredient adds sweetness and depth. When selecting onions, go for those with shiny, papery skin. If onions are too strong for your taste, shallots provide a milder alternative.
Green Bell Pepper: 🫑 Adding a splash of color and a hint of crunch, green bell peppers are wonderful. If you’ve got red peppers sitting in the fridge, they’re sweeter and just as good. Fresh peppers with firm skin and no wrinkles are ideal.
Beef Broth: 🍲 A splash of beef broth elevates the meaty base, making the flavors sing. Opt for low-sodium broth to have more control over seasoning. In a pinch, chicken broth works but gives a lighter flavor.
Garlic: 🧄 No Italian-inspired dish is complete without garlic. It adds that aromatic zing we love. Fresh cloves are always best; pre-minced ones may save time but lose some flavor. Keep them in a cool, dry spot for longevity.
Worcestershire Sauce: 🥄 This sauce is like a secret weapon, enhancing savory notes. If you’re out, soy sauce can be a quick substitute, though it’s slightly different in flavor. A quality brand makes all the difference; I’ve noticed Lea & Perrins is a crowd favorite.
Hot Sauce: 🌶️ For that extra kick, hot sauce is your friend. Adjust based on your preference or use sriracha for a sweeter heat. Always good to have a bottle around—great for drizzling on anything really!
Marinara Sauce: 🍅 The heart of the dish, binding all ingredients with its tomatoey goodness. Go for high-quality, jarred versions if making from scratch isn’t on the cards. Organic options often provide a fresher taste.
Pizza Sauce: 🍕 Just a smidge for that authentic pizza vibe! It’s thicker and more seasoned than marinara. You could blend extra marinara with some herbs in a pinch. Homemade sauces rule, but good store-bought ones work wonders too.
Penne: 🍝 Penne’s tubular shape grabs onto that sauce beautifully. I’ve found whole wheat or gluten-free options work if dietary needs call for it. Cook it just a minute shy of al dente; it’ll continue to soften when you bake.
Parmesan Cheese: 🧀 Adding a nutty depth, Parmesan is a must. Grate it fresh for the best melt and flavor. Pecorino Romano is a fun alternative—saltier but equally delightful.
Mozzarella: 🧀 Creamy, stretchy magic on top! Whole milk mozzarella melts better, so avoid pre-shredded versions if you can. They often have anti-caking agents that affect texture.
Pepperoni: 🍕 This classic topping adds spice and richness. Try turkey pepperoni for a lighter option without losing flavor. Buy from a deli counter for fresher slices.
Dried Oregano & Basil: 🌿 These herbs infuse authentic Italian flavors. Fresh herbs can be substituted; just triple the amount since dried herbs are more potent. I love keeping both on hand for pizzas and pastas alike.
Garlic Salt: 🧂 It’s a simple way to add both seasoning and flavor. Regular salt works too, just add extra garlic. Always handy for those mid-cooking taste tests!
Red Pepper Flakes: 🌶️ Just a pinch adds gentle heat. If you love spice like I do, feel free to adjust to taste—a little goes a long way!

Each of these ingredients is like an old friend, reliable and always bringing something special to the table. Whether you’re following the recipe to the letter or swapping in some of my suggestions, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

Kitchen gadgets you’ll love for pizza pasta🍽️

Having the right tools can elevate your cooking game and make the process more enjoyable and efficient. Here are some essentials you might want to consider:

Skillet: A good-quality, non-stick skillet is perfect for sautéing and browning meats, like in our Pizza Pasta recipe. If non-stick isn’t available, cast iron can be a great alternative, offering even heat distribution.
Silicone Spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of pans without scratching them. If you don’t have one, a wooden spoon can also suffice, though it might not be as effective in preserving non-stick surfaces.
Large Pot: Essential for boiling pasta, a large pot allows noodles to cook evenly without sticking together. In a pinch, you can use a Dutch oven if a large pot isn’t on hand.
Casserole Dish: A staple for oven-baked dishes, providing space for layering ingredients. A deep baking sheet can work as a substitute, though it may affect cooking time.
Box Grater: Perfect for shredding cheese from a block, which melts better than pre-packaged shredded cheese due to the lack of anti-caking agents. If unavailable, pre-shredded cheese is a convenient alternative.

These tools not only make cooking smoother but also enhance the joy of creating delicious meals!

How do we make this pizza pasta delicious?👩‍🍳

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before diving into cooking, have all your ingredients measured and ready on your countertop. This little prep step makes the process smoother and saves you from searching mid-recipe for that elusive spice jar.
Step 2: Boil the Pasta
Fill a large pot with water and set it on the stove over high heat. Once the water hits a rolling boil, generously sprinkle salt into it. This enhances the flavor of the pasta. Toss in the penne and cook it for just a smidge less than al dente, as it’ll cook further in the oven later.
Step 3: Get the Oven Ready
Now’s the time to preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures it’ll be the perfect temperature when your pasta is ready to bake.
Step 4: Brown the Meat and Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, combine the ground beef, sausage, and diced onions. Let them cook for about four minutes. Introduce the diced green bell pepper to the mix, and continue for another five minutes, or until the meat is thoroughly browned. Don’t forget to drain off the excess grease—the last thing you want is a greasy pasta bake!
Step 5: Build the Flavor Base
Lower the heat to medium and pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a silicone spatula to lift those flavorful browned bits. Stir in the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce along with your dried oregano, basil, garlic salt, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Let this fragrant mixture meld for about a minute.
Step 6: Simmer the Sauce
Stir in both the marinara and pizza sauces, ensuring everything is well combined. Allow this to simmer gently while you finish up the pasta. This cozy mix will be the heart of your dish.
Step 7: Incorporate the Parmesan
Bring the heat down to low and fold in the grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a delightful richness to the sauce. Give it a few stirs to make sure the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce.
Step 8: Combine with Pasta
Drain the cooked penne and add it to the sauce in your skillet. Stir everything together until the pasta is beautifully coated in the sauce.
Step 9: Prepare for Baking
If your skillet can’t go into the oven, transfer the pasta mixture into a lightly greased 9 x 13-inch casserole dish. This ensures a non-stick experience later on.
Step 10: Add the Final Touches
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the pasta, followed by a layer of pepperoni slices. These will give your dish that classic pizza flair.
Step 11: Bake Covered
Cover your dish with a lid or aluminum foil (sprayed with non-stick spray to prevent sticking) and let it bake for a cozy 10 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld wonderfully.
Step 12: Finish Baking Uncovered
Take off the cover and continue baking for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden-brown. If you’re a fan of an extra-crispy top, you can broil it for about a minute—just keep a close watch to avoid any singed cheese.
Step 13: Serve and Enjoy
Optional: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or a bit more Parmesan before serving for that extra touch of flavor. Now, grab a plate and dive in while it’s warm and gooey—your taste buds will thank you!

Creative spins and tweaks

When I decided to experiment with this pizza pasta, I ventured into the realm of gluten-free by swapping out the penne for a gluten-free variety. The result was satisfyingly close to the original, with that same comforting, cheesy allure we all adore.

For a lighter version, I tried a low-carb twist by substituting the pasta with zucchini noodles. The zoodles absorbed the rich marinara flavors beautifully, and surprisingly, the dish retained its hearty essence despite the missing carbs.

To spice things up, I once gave it an Indian flair by introducing a dash of garam masala and a sprinkle of cilantro. The spices blended seamlessly with the pizza sauce, giving an unexpected yet delightful fusion twist.

Creative plating for pizza pasta

Imagine your pizza pasta nestled in stylish wide-rimmed bowls, allowing each colorful ingredient to shine. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves or a handful of arugula on top for a pop of green and a peppery twist. For that extra pizzazz, shave some delicate Parmesan curls over the dish, letting them melt gently into the sauce. How about pairing this with a vibrant Caprese salad? The juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella will make your guests’ taste buds dance. Add a touch of whimsy with a crusty garlic bread side, primed for dipping in any leftover sauce.

Sip and savor: perfect drinks for pizza pasta

You know what goes perfectly with a steaming plate of Pizza Pasta? A crisp, cold apple cider. The sweetness of the cider plays wonderfully with the tangy tomato sauce and savory cheese. If cider’s not your thing, a frosty glass of lemon iced tea makes a refreshing counterpart to the hearty, rich flavors and gives a little zing with every sip. On cooler days, I might even snuggle up with a mug of warm spiced chai. It sounds a bit like a quirky choice, but the aromatic spices in the tea harmonize surprisingly well with the Italian vibes.

Keeping leftovers fresh and tasty

When storing your pizza pasta, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, pop it in the freezer for up to two months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the pasta with foil to keep it moist and bake until heated through, about 20 minutes. If you’re in a rush, a microwave works too—just stir halfway through to ensure even heating. Always check that it’s piping hot to ensure food safety.

Avoid these common mistakes 🖐️

Mistakes can happen even in the most delicious of kitchens, but don’t worry! One common hiccup is overcooking the pasta. Aim for that perfect “al dente” texture; otherwise, you might end up with a mushy meal. Cook it just a minute less than the package suggests before mixing it into the sauce.

Another sneaky slip is not fully draining the grease from the meat. This can make the dish too oily. Make sure to drain thoroughly for a richer, more balanced flavor.

Sometimes, folks forget to season as they go. Remember, seasoning each layer is key to a flavorful dish. A little dash here and there works wonders.

Lastly, when broiling, keep a close eye on that top layer of cheese. It turns golden quite fast—like magic!—but magic that can burn if unattended. Enjoy this culinary adventure, and have fun while you’re at it!

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What can I use as an alternative to penne pasta?

If you’re out of penne, rotini or rigatoni work wonderfully due to their ability to hold sauce in their ridges. Feel free to choose any pasta shape you love!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of adding cheese and pepperoni. Cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, then bake as directed when ready to serve.

How can I make this recipe spicy?

To add more spice, increase the hot sauce, or sprinkle extra red pepper flakes. A touch of cayenne pepper can also bring more heat to the party.

Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Yes, you can swap the ground beef and sausage with plant-based meat alternatives or simply add more veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant for a hearty vegetarian spin.

What sides go well with pizza pasta?

A fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette or a side of garlic bread complements this dish perfectly. A glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon also pairs nicely.

Savor the joy of pizza pasta creation!🎉

So there you have it, a delightful Pizza Pasta Recipe that’s sure to steal the spotlight at your dinner table. Why not give it a whirl and unleash your inner chef? Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and finding flavors that make your heart sing. Feel free to toss in extra cheese, swap out the veggies, or amp up the spice level—make it your own culinary masterpiece. Dive in, get creative, and most importantly, enjoy every delectable bite. You’ve got this!

Pizza Pasta Recipe