Name: Pizza Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 0 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Yield: 8
Ingredients: - ½ lb. ground beef; - ½ lb. ground sausage mild, sweet, or hot Italian; - 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 high quality; - 8 oz. pizza sauce; - ¾ lb. penne; - ¼ cup Parmesan cheese grated; - 2 ½ cups whole milk/low moisture mozzarella shredded from a block; - 25 slices pepperoni; - 1 teaspoon dried oregano; - 1 teaspoon dried basil; - ½ teaspoon garlic salt; - 1 pinch red pepper flakes

Gather ’round the kitchen table, and let’s dive into the delightful world of Pizza Pasta. This fusion dish blends the best of two beloved classics, creating a meal that’s both comforting and thrilling. Imagine twirling forkfuls of pasta that capture the essence of a hearty pizza, with gooey cheese, savory sauce, and all your favorite toppings. It’s a culinary adventure that promises satisfaction with every bite, perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Growing up, Friday nights were a family affair with Mom’s inventive Pizza Pasta. The scent of bubbling cheese and oregano wafting through the air meant it was time to gather. Those evenings were filled with laughter and stories, as the warm, tomato-y pasta transported us to a cozy, comforting place. Even now, that first forkful feels like a delicious hug from home.

How did pizza pasta come to be?

The delightful fusion of pizza and pasta, known as Pizza Pasta, traces its roots back to creative cooks who couldn’t choose between their two Italian favorites. Originally, it was a clever way to use leftover pizza toppings mixed with pasta. Over the years, it’s evolved into a beloved dish of its own, often featuring rich tomato sauces, gooey cheese, and a variety of toppings. Its charm lies in its versatility, embracing both the rustic appeal of pizza and the comforting heartiness of pasta, making it a staple in many households.

What makes this dish irresistible?

When comfort food is on your mind, Pizza Pasta is your go-to! This delightful dish combines your love for pizza and pasta into one satisfying meal. Each ingredient adds a special touch, enhancing the flavors and making it oh-so-delicious.

Ground Beef: 🍖 Provides a hearty base, adding richness and depth. Try turkey if you’re feeling adventurous! Go for grass-fed beef for a more robust flavor, plus it’s packed with protein.
Ground Sausage: 🌭 Whether you choose mild, sweet, or hot Italian, sausage brings a savory kick. Sometimes I swap it for chicken sausage to lighten it up a bit. Look for sausages free from preservatives.
Yellow Onion: 🧅 Adds a sweet, aromatic base to the dish. A red onion can be a zesty substitute. Choose firm, unblemished bulbs for the best taste.
Green Bell Pepper: 🫑 This veggie pops with color and a slight crunch. Swap with red or yellow for sweetness if that’s more your jam. Loaded with vitamin C, it’s a nutritional win!
Beef Broth: 🥣 Enhances the meaty flavor while keeping the pasta moist. In a pinch, vegetable broth works too! Opt for low-sodium to control salt levels.
Garlic: 🧄 This aromatic bulb infuses the dish with warmth and depth. Fresh is best, but pre-minced works in a hurry. It’s known for its immune-boosting benefits.
Worcestershire Sauce: 🥫 A dash of umami goodness, it deepens the flavor profile. Soy sauce can be an alternative if needed. Choose one with natural ingredients for the best taste.
Hot Sauce: 🌶 Adds a fiery finish that lifts the dish. Adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance. Look for a sauce with minimal ingredients for purity.
Marinara Sauce: 🍅 Forms the rich, tangy backbone of the sauce. Homemade or a high-quality jarred version works wonders. It’s a great source of lycopene, an antioxidant.
Pizza Sauce: 🍕 Adds a concentrated, flavorful twist. If you’re out, marinara with a sprinkle of Italian herbs does the trick. Choose a brand with no added sugars for the freshest taste.
Penne: 🍝 The perfect pasta shape to catch every bit of sauce. Rigatoni can work if you’re out of penne. Whole-grain options provide extra fiber and nutrients.
Parmesan Cheese: 🧀 Brings a salty, nutty finish that complements the dish. Asiago is a lovely substitute. Always go for freshly grated for more flavor.
Mozzarella: 🧀 Melts into gooey perfection atop the pasta. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a mix with provolone. Shred your own for a smoother melt.
Pepperoni: 🍕 Classic pizza topper bringing its signature spicy kick. Turkey pepperoni is a lighter option. Choose nitrite-free varieties if possible.
Dried Oregano: 🌿 Offers that quintessential Italian aroma and flavor. Fresh oregano can add a brighter note. Known for its antioxidant properties.
Dried Basil: 🌿 Infuses a sweet, herby flavor throughout. Fresh basil leaves would shine if you have them on hand. Adds a touch of freshness and hints of health benefits.
Garlic Salt: 🧂 A convenient way to add flavor. If not available, a mix of garlic powder and salt works. Use sparingly to avoid over-salting.
Red Pepper Flakes: 🌶 Just a pinch to elevate the heat and intensity. They’re versatile and can be swapped or omitted based on preference.

Measure ingredients out before beginning
Begin heating a large pot of water to cook the pasta in and generously salt the pasta water once a boil is reached
Preheat the oven to 375°
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat
Add the ground beef, sausage, and onions to the skillet and cook for 4 minutes
Add the peppers and cook for 5 more minutes, or until the meat is browned and cooked through, then drain the grease
Reduce the heat to medium and add beef broth, using a silicone spatula to clean the bottom and sides of the skillet
Add the garlic, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and seasonings, then stir to combine and heat for 1 minute
Add the marinara and pizza sauce, stirring to combine, and let it simmer, partially covered, while boiling the pasta for 1 minute less than al dente according to package instructions
Reduce the heat of the sauce to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese
Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet, stirring to combine
Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9 x 13-inch casserole dish if your skillet isn’t oven safe to 450 degrees
Top with mozzarella and then with pepperoni
Cover and bake for 10 minutes
If covering with foil, spray one side with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking
Uncover and bake for 15 minutes, or until your desired color is obtained on the top
If desired, broil at 450 for about 1 minute to brown the top more, watching it carefully
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, then remove and serve

Must-have tools for a perfect pizza pasta party!🍽️

Creating delightful dishes is a breeze with the right kitchen tools on hand. These essentials make cooking more efficient and enjoyable.

Large Skillet: A versatile skillet is perfect for sautéing meats and vegetables. If you don’t have one, a wide saucepan can serve as a practical substitute.
Silicone Spatula: Ideal for scraping every last bit from your pans without scratching them. If unavailable, a wooden spoon can also do the trick.
Casserole Dish: Essential for transferring dishes to the oven. If you lack one, an oven-safe skillet or a baking sheet lined with foil can work in a pinch.
Cheese Grater: Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully and enhances flavor. Lacking one? A vegetable peeler can shave cheese for a similar effect.
Measuring Spoons and Cups: Precision in measuring ensures the perfect balance of flavors. In a pinch, estimate using standard spoons and cups, but for best results, invest in a set.

Creating pasta magic: an easy journey!👩‍🍳

Step 1: Gather and Measure Ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, take a moment to organize and measure out all your ingredients. This little bit of prep work sets a smooth cooking process in motion and ensures nothing is forgotten along the way. Plus, having everything at arm’s reach can make you feel like a pro in your kitchen!
Step 2: Boil the Pasta Water
Grab a large pot and begin heating some water on the stove for the pasta. Once it reaches a rolling boil, toss in a generous amount of salt. This step not only seasons the pasta but enhances the overall flavor of your dish. Keep an eye on it while you work on other steps.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
It’s time to get your oven ready by preheating it to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is at the perfect temperature when you’re ready to bake your creation to gooey perfection.
Step 4: Brown the Meat and Sauté Veggies
Place a large skillet on medium-high heat and introduce the ground beef, sausage, and diced onions to the party. Let them cook for about 4 minutes, enjoying the aroma as they mingle. Then, add the bell peppers and continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the meat is nicely browned. Don’t forget to drain the excess grease, keeping the dish delicious, not greasy.
Step 5: Deglaze and Season
Lower the heat to medium. Pour in the beef broth and use a silicone spatula to scrape up all the flavorful bits stuck to the skillet. Stir in the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and your chosen seasonings. This stage is all about building flavors, so give it a good stir and let it cook for a minute to allow everything to meld together beautifully.
Step 6: Add the Sauces and Simmer
Mix in the marinara and pizza sauces, ensuring they’re well incorporated. Let this simmer gently, partially covered to avoid splatters, while you cook the pasta. The goal here is a rich, savory sauce that coats every bite of your dish.
Step 7: Cook the Pasta
In your boiling pot of water, cook the penne pasta, aiming for just shy of al dente according to the package instructions. This way, it will continue to cook to the perfect texture once combined with the sauce in the oven.
Step 8: Combine with Cheese
When your sauce is nicely simmered, reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese. This gives the sauce a creamy touch and adds a delightful salty kick. Drain your pasta and fold it lovingly into the skillet, ensuring each piece is enveloped in sauce.
Step 9: Transfer to Baking Dish
If your skillet isn’t oven-safe to 450 degrees, transfer the pasta mixture to a lightly greased 9 x 13-inch casserole dish. This not only makes for easy baking but also simplifies serving later on.
Step 10: Top with Cheese and Pepperoni
Now for the fun part—sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella over the top, followed by the pepperoni slices. This cheesy layer is key to achieving that pizza-like finish.
Step 11: Bake Covered
Cover the dish and let it bake for 10 minutes. If you’re using foil, spray one side with non-stick spray to keep it from sticking to the cheesy topping. This step helps everything meld together, making the dish irresistible.
Step 12: Finish Baking Uncovered
Uncover your dish and let it continue baking for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. For extra crispiness, you might want to broil it for an additional minute, but keep a watchful eye to prevent burning.
Step 13: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, feel free to sprinkle some fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese over the top for a touch of color and flavor. Serve it up hot and enjoy the delightful blend of pizza and pasta right from your oven!

Customize your pizza pasta adventure!

Experimenting with this dish has yielded some delightful surprises. For a gluten-free option, swap the penne for gluten-free pasta, which retains a firm texture and pairs perfectly with the rich sauce. Vegan enthusiasts can substitute ground beef and sausage with plant-based alternatives and use vegan cheese. The savoriness remains intact, and it’s a hit with plant lovers.

Seasonal twists bring unique flavors; try adding roasted butternut squash in the fall for a subtle sweetness. A Mediterranean flair can be achieved by incorporating olives and artichokes, which add a tangy contrast. Each variation offers a deliciously different experience.

Creative ways to serve your pizza pasta

Set the stage for a cozy dinner party by serving your Pizza Pasta in rustic bowls, letting the layers of cheese and sauce shine like culinary art. Sprinkle with fresh basil leaves and a dusting of Parmesan for that extra touch. A side of garlic breadsticks adds a crunchy contrast, while a mixed greens salad with a zesty vinaigrette refreshes the palate. For a fun twist, use mini pizza cutters at each place setting. It’s a playful nod to the dish that’ll spark conversation and keep things light-hearted at the table.

Sip suggestions for pizza pasta perfection!

When I’m twirling a forkful of that delightful Pizza Pasta, nothing hits the spot like a chilled glass of sparkling lemon water. It’s got that refreshing zing that cuts through the rich tomato and cheesy goodness, making each bite feel like the first. And if I’m feeling a bit fancy, a tall glass of iced herbal tea, maybe with a hint of mint, adds a lovely aromatic twist. For those sweet moments, a splash of peach iced tea never fails to add a sunny burst to the meal. Whatever your choice, make sure it makes you smile!

Keeping your pizza pasta fresh and toasty

To keep your pizza pasta fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, grab a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a little water over the top to retain moisture, and heat it in the microwave until warmed through. If you prefer the oven, cover with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. Always ensure it reaches at least 165°F inside for safety. Remember, don’t leave it out at room temperature for more than two hours to avoid those pesky bacteria!

Avoid these common mistakes 🖐️

Embarking on the adventure of making Pizza Pasta can sometimes lead to a few oops moments, but no worries—I’ve got you covered! One common misstep is overcooking the pasta. Remember, you want it just shy of al dente since it will continue to cook in the oven.

Another pitfall is neglecting to drain the grease after cooking the meat. This can result in a greasy dish, so a quick drain will do wonders and lead to flavorful success.

And when it comes to cheese, avoid pre-shredded mozzarella. Opt for a block and shred it yourself; it melts much better since it doesn’t have added anti-caking agents.

Lastly, forgetting to spray the foil when covering your dish can lead to all that gooey cheese sticking to it. A little spritz of non-stick spray will ensure your cheesy topping stays in the right place—on top of your delicious creation!

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What kind of sausage should I use for Pizza Pasta?

You have a few tasty options when choosing sausage for Pizza Pasta. Mild, sweet, or hot Italian sausage can all work well, depending on your preference for spice and flavor. Feel free to mix and match them to suit your taste buds!

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, you can simply omit the ground beef and sausage. Instead, add more veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or even eggplant. You might also include plant-based meat alternatives for that hearty texture.

How can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be a lifesaver! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the pasta in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or use the microwave for a quicker option.

What can I use instead of penne pasta?

If you don’t have penne on hand, don’t worry! You can substitute it with other types of pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or even ziti. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for cooking times since they might vary.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Pizza Pasta ahead of time! Assemble the dish up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When it’s time for dinner, simply pop it into the oven, and you’re good to go.

Savor the joy of pizza pasta bliss!🎉

So, there you have it, a delightful blend of pizza and pasta that’s sure to become a household favorite. Why not give it a whirl in your kitchen? This recipe is wonderfully flexible, just like that friend who always goes with the flow. Swap out ingredients to suit your cravings or dietary needs—add a little heat with some chili flakes or toss in your favorite veggies. Cooking is all about experimenting, so don’t be shy! Channel your inner chef and enjoy the process. You’ve got this!