Description
A delightful fusion of sweet and spicy, this Hot Honey Pepperoni Pasta Bake combines comforting pasta with zesty pepperoni and a touch of sweet heat, creating an ultimate comfort food experience.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil a large pot of water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, hot honey, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, the sauce from the skillet, and half of the sliced pepperoni. Mix well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
- Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, then arrange the remaining pepperoni slices.
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- For variations, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control the spice level.
- Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack.
- This dish can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: N/A