No-Boil Pepperoni Pasta Casserole

This Pepperoni Pasta Casserole is one of my foolproof dinners to feed a crowd. My kids love this, my husband is obsessed and I love getting dinner on the table in under an hour with minimal prep work. Made with 5 ingredients.

If you’re craving a comforting, cozy, super family-friendly dinner recipe that is ridiculously easy to make—this pepperoni pasta casserole is calling your name. It’s a total weeknight win and something I turn to when I want a no-fuss meal that my whole family (yes, even the pickiest eaters) will devour.

This one is kind of like a mashup of pizza and pasta… in casserole form. You get that cheesy, saucy, baked goodness of a pepperoni pizza, but mixed into a hearty, nourishing pasta dish. It’s one of those back-pocket recipes you’ll want to make on repeat—especially during those extra busy weeks when the dinner hustle feels like a whole thing.

And you only need a handful of pantry and fridge staples to make it happen. We’re using small-shaped pasta, your favorite marinara, some bone broth for a little nutrient boost, organic shredded mozzarella, and of course—pepperoni slices on top for that classic pizza flavor.

It all comes together in one dish with almost no prep, and it’s easy to customize depending on what you have on hand. Let’s get into the magic of this pepperoni pasta casserole and why it’s one of my go-to baked pasta dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is that it uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry or fridge. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Small-shaped pasta of choice – gluten-free pasta if needed. I usually go for gluten-free penne, fusilli or elbows. Any short pasta works well!
• Marinara sauce – use your favorite jarred or homemade sauce.
• Bone broth – chicken, beef or veggie. This adds protein and nutrients while helping the pasta cook right in the oven.
• Shredded organic mozzarella – feel free to add more if you love it super cheesy!
• Pepperoni slices – I use an organic uncured brand and slice them if needed. Turkey pepperoni or plant-based also works.

How to Make Pepperoni Pasta Casserole

This recipe is designed to be as easy and low-maintenance as possible. No boiling pasta ahead of time. No fancy layering. Everything goes straight into the baking dish, and the oven does the rest of the work.

Here’s how to make it:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees and take out a 9×13 baking dish
2. Add the pasta to the baking dish and spread it across the dish
3. Add the broth and marinara sauce and mix well to evenly combine
4. Sprinkle cheese on top, followed by pepperoni slices then cover the dish with tin foil
5. Bake in oven for about 35-40 minutes then remove foil and broil for about 90 seconds so the cheese starts to bubble
6. Serve while warm with grate parmesan cheese if desired

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are a lot of reasons I keep coming back to this pepperoni pasta casserole recipe. Here are just a few:

1. It’s totally hands-off

No boiling pasta, no extra pots, no big cleanup. You throw everything into the baking dish, and the oven does the rest.

2. One dish = easy dinner and even easier cleanup

Less dishes = a happier me after dinner. IYKYK.

3. It’s kid-approved and picky-eater-friendly

My kids love this one, especially with the pepperoni on top. You get that pizza vibe without ordering takeout.

4. It’s packed with protein and real food ingredients

The bone broth adds a little boost of protein and collagen, and using organic cheese and pepperoni keeps the ingredients simple and clean. Plus, you can swap in gluten-free or high-protein pasta depending on what works for you.

5. It’s easy to meal prep and freezer-friendly

This casserole reheats really well. You can make it ahead of time, pop leftovers in the fridge, or even freeze it for later. Just store it in an airtight container and reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready.

Add-Ins and Variations

Want to switch it up or clean out your fridge? This recipe is super versatile. Here are some fun ways to customize it:

• Add veggies: chopped spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers mix in beautifully.

• Swap the protein: try adding ground beef, turkey, or crumbled sausage instead of or along with pepperoni.

• Make it dairy-free: use a vegan mozzarella or cashew-based cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.

• Go extra cheesy: stir in ricotta or add a sprinkle of parmesan between the layers.

• Use a different sauce: creamy vodka sauce, pesto, or arrabbiata are all delicious swaps if you want something new.

FAQs About Pepperoni Pasta Casserole

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prep the entire casserole in the baking dish earlier in the day, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just add 5–10 minutes to the bake time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

Does the pasta really cook in the oven?

Yes! As long as you use enough liquid (in this case, the broth and sauce), the pasta cooks perfectly in the oven while absorbing all the flavor. Just be sure to cover the dish tightly with foil while it bakes to trap the moisture in.

Can I freeze this?

Totally. Let it cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the whole dish into a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

The Bottom Line

This pepperoni pasta casserole is everything you want in a weeknight dinner: easy, cozy, flavorful, and made with real food ingredients that your whole family will love.

It’s cheesy, saucy, slightly crispy on top from the broiled pepperoni, and loaded with flavor. And it’s the kind of meal that doesn’t require any overthinking—just throw it together, let it bake, and enjoy.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just need something low-lift after a long day, this casserole has your back.

If you make it, be sure to tag me on Instagram @rachlmansfield—I love seeing your creations and how you make it your own!

More easy family dinners to try next:

Kung Pao Chicken and Rice Bowls

EPIC Pizza Smash Burger Tacos

Delish Broccoli Cheddar Meatballs (gluten-free)

20-minute Mongolian Beef and Rice Bowls