Hot Honey Pepperoni Pasta: Bold Flavor 12 Oz

Name: Hot Honey Pepperoni Pasta: Bold Flavor 12 Oz
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 ounces pasta (penne or rotini); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup sliced pepperoni; 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes; ½ cup hot honey; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional); Olive oil for sautéing

by Fenna Saul

August 6, 2025

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Hot Honey Pepperoni Pasta has become my absolute go-to for a weeknight dinner that feels both exciting and incredibly comforting. I first stumbled upon this flavor combination when a friend made a spicy pepperoni pasta with honey, and I was instantly hooked by that perfect sweet and spicy kick. The aroma of simmering tomatoes, savory pepperoni, and that irresistible hot honey sauce filling my kitchen is pure magic. This easy hot honey pepperoni pasta recipe is surprisingly simple to whip up, even on the busiest evenings. Get ready for a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Hot Honey Pepperoni Pasta Bake

The sweet and spicy flavor profile is absolutely addictive.
It’s incredibly quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
You get that satisfying, comforting pasta dish with a gourmet twist.
This pepperoni pasta with hot honey is a fantastic budget-friendly meal.
It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will devour.
The combination of savory pepperoni and sweet heat is pure bliss.
This pepperoni pasta with hot honey is simple enough for beginners.
It’s a hearty dinner that feels special without a lot of fuss.

Hot honey pepperoni pasta ingredients for this dish

Gathering these simple components is the first step to your delicious meal. You’ll need 12 ounces pasta, penne or rotini work wonderfully. For that creamy, cheesy goodness, have 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese ready. Of course, you can’t have this without 1 cup sliced pepperoni – the star of our show! We’ll also need 1 small onion, diced, and 3 cloves garlic, minced for our aromatic base. The sauce comes together with 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes, and the magic ingredient: ½ cup hot honey. Don’t forget 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more if you like it extra spicy!), and salt and pepper to taste. A drizzle of olive oil for sautéing and optional fresh basil for garnish complete these essential hot honey pepperoni pasta ingredients.

How to Make Hot Honey Pepperoni Pasta

Making this delicious dish is a breeze! Follow these simple steps to create your own homemade hot honey pepperoni pasta that will impress everyone.

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Aromatics. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Get a large pot of salted water boiling and cook your pasta according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. While the pasta cooks, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes nice and translucent, usually about 3-4 minutes. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell its amazing fragrance.
Step 2: Create the Flavorful Sauce. Now it’s time to build the flavor! Pour the crushed tomatoes into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir in the hot honey, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and spicy sauce for your homemade hot honey pepperoni pasta.
Step 3: Combine and Assemble. Once your pasta is cooked and drained, add it directly to the skillet with the sauce. Toss in half of the sliced pepperoni and mix everything together well, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated in that glorious sauce. Pour this delightful pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top generously with the shredded mozzarella cheese, then artfully arrange the remaining pepperoni slices over the cheese.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection. Place the assembled baking dish into your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is beautifully bubbly and golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen will be incredible! Let your homemade hot honey pepperoni pasta rest for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if you like, for an extra pop of color and freshness.

Hot Honey Pepperoni Pasta: Bold Flavor 12 Oz - Hot Honey Pepperoni Pasta - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Hot Honey Pepperoni Pasta Dish

Want to elevate your pasta game? Here are a few tricks I’ve learned for making the most incredible hot honey pepperoni pasta dish:

Don’t skimp on the quality of your hot honey; a good brand makes a real difference in the sweet-heat balance.
Ensure your pasta is cooked just al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven, preventing it from becoming mushy.
Use a mix of cheeses if you like – provolone or even a sharp cheddar can add a nice depth.
Let the dish rest for at least 5-10 minutes after baking; this allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to serve.

What’s the secret to perfect Hot Honey Pepperoni Pasta?

The real secret to perfect spicy pepperoni pasta with honey is in layering the flavors and allowing them to meld. Using a good quality hot honey and not overcrowding the pan when sautéing the aromatics ensures a rich, balanced taste. For more recipe inspiration, check out our full collection of recipes.

Can I make Hot Honey Pepperoni Pasta ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire dish, minus the final pepperoni and cheese topping, up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. Add the topping just before baking, and you might need an extra few minutes in the oven.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Hot Honey Pepperoni Pasta?

A common pitfall is overcooking the pasta initially, leading to a mushy final product. Another is not letting the sauce simmer long enough, which means the flavors won’t fully develop. Lastly, make sure your oven is properly preheated for even cooking. Proper cooking temperatures are crucial for many dishes, like this turkey meatloaf recipe.

Best Ways to Serve Hot Honey Pepperoni Pasta

This amazing hot honey pepperoni pasta dish is so versatile! For a truly satisfying meal, I love serving it alongside a crisp, fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette. The acidity cuts through the richness of the pasta beautifully. Another great option is some crusty garlic bread – perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. When thinking about pairing drinks, a crisp lager or even a slightly off-dry Riesling complements the sweet and spicy notes wonderfully. For those seeking the best pepperoni pasta with spicy honey, consider a side of roasted broccoli or asparagus for added color and nutrients. You might also enjoy our crispy roasted cauliflower.

Nutrition Facts for Hot Honey Pepperoni Pasta

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for this delightful hot honey pepperoni pasta dish:

Calories: 480 kcal
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: N/A
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: N/A
Fiber: N/A
Sugar: N/A
Sodium: N/A

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your spicy honey pepperoni pasta recipe. For more information on healthy eating, consult resources on nutrition.

Hot Honey Pepperoni Pasta: Bold Flavor 12 Oz - Hot Honey Pepperoni Pasta - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat Hot Honey Pepperoni Pasta

Once this delicious hot honey pepperoni pasta has cooled down completely, it’s time to think about storage to keep it tasting its best. I like to portion it into airtight containers. For refrigeration, it will stay good for about 3 to 4 days. If you’re planning further ahead, this dish also freezes beautifully. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and pop them into the freezer for up to 3 months. This makes having a quick meal incredibly easy later on. You might also like our Korean BBQ meatballs for another easy meal prep option.

When you’re ready to reheat your homemade hot honey pepperoni pasta, you have a couple of great options. For a single serving, the microwave works well; just heat it in 1-minute intervals until warmed through, stirring halfway. If you’re reheating a larger portion, cover the baking dish with foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain its texture and flavor, ensuring your leftovers are just as enjoyable as when they were first made. For other make-ahead ideas, consider our boat dip rotel ranch dip.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hot Honey Pepperoni Pasta

What is hot honey pepperoni pasta?

Hot honey pepperoni pasta is a modern comfort food dish that combines the savory, slightly spicy notes of pepperoni with the sweet heat of hot honey, all tossed with pasta. It’s a delightful fusion that offers a balanced sweet, spicy, and savory flavor profile, making it a popular choice for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Is this recipe good for hot honey pepperoni pasta for dinner?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for hot honey pepperoni pasta for dinner. It’s relatively quick to prepare, uses common ingredients, and delivers a flavor that’s both comforting and exciting, making it ideal for a weeknight family meal or a casual get-together. The combination of pasta, pepperoni, and that signature hot honey sauce is a guaranteed hit. For other dinner ideas, explore our beef and bowtie pasta with alfredo sauce.

Can I use different kinds of pasta for this dish?

Yes, indeed! While penne or rotini are great choices because their shapes hold sauce well, you can use almost any short pasta shape. Bowties, shells, or even fusilli would be fantastic for your spicy honey pepperoni pasta recipe. Just ensure you cook it to al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven.

How do I make the hot honey yourself if I don’t have any?

Making your own hot honey is super simple! You just need regular honey and red pepper flakes (or your favorite chili pepper). Gently warm about a cup of honey in a saucepan over low heat, stirring in 1-2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes. Let it infuse for about 10-15 minutes, then strain out the flakes if you prefer a smooth sauce, or leave them in for extra texture and heat. This homemade version is perfect for your homemade hot honey pepperoni pasta.

Variations of Hot Honey Pepperoni Pasta You Can Try

Feeling adventurous? This dish is a fantastic base for all sorts of delicious twists! If you’re craving something extra decadent, try making a creamy hot honey pepperoni pasta by stirring in a dollop of ricotta cheese or a splash of heavy cream into the sauce before assembling. For those seeking a lighter option or catering to dietary needs, a gluten-free hot honey pepperoni pasta is easily achieved by swapping out regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. And for a plant-based delight, you can create a satisfying vegan hot honey pepperoni pasta by using vegan pepperoni, your preferred plant-based cheese, and ensuring your hot honey is vegan-friendly (most are, but check the label!). These variations ensure there’s a perfect version for everyone!