Spicy Pepperoni Pasta Bake

Serves 6 · 15 min prep · 40 min cook

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 6 oz sliced pepperoni
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium diced yellow onion
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup torn fresh basil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. 1Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish.
2. 2Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until just shy of al dente, about 2 minutes less than package directions; drain and set aside.
3. 3While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the diced onion until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.
4. 4Add the minced garlic and half the pepperoni slices; cook 2 minutes more until the pepperoni begins to crisp and release its spicy oil.
5. 5Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper; simmer uncovered for 8 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and smells rich.
6. 6Combine the drained pasta with the sauce in the skillet or a large bowl, then fold in half the mozzarella and half the Parmesan so everything is evenly coated.
7. 7Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and scatter the remaining pepperoni slices across the top in a single layer.
8. 8Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the pepperoni so the cheese melts into a golden blanket.
9. 9Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and browned in spots and the pepperoni edges are crisp.
10. 10Let the bake rest 5 minutes, then tear the fresh basil over the top and scoop generous portions onto plates while still hot.