If you love the comforting flavors of pizza and the satisfying heartiness of pasta, you are going to be absolutely smitten with this Pepperoni and Sausage Pizza Pasta Recipe. It’s the perfect mash-up of gooey melted cheese, spicy pepperoni, and savory Italian sausage all wrapped around tender rotini pasta. Every bite bursts with that classic pizza vibe but in a fun, shareable pasta format that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Once you make this one, it’s guaranteed to become a go-to recipe that everyone at the table asks for again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows many bowls and plates with different food ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. There is a large white bowl on the right filled with dry yellow spiral pasta, next to it is a small white bowl with shredded white cheese. Above that is a jar of red sauce. To the left, there is a large white bowl full of shredded yellow cheese. Below it, a white plate with round red pepperoni slices. Next to that, a green bowl with chopped white onions and another green bowl with a red and white mix of ground meat. Small bowls filled with minced garlic, red chili flakes, and other spices are placed near the center. A bunch of fresh leafy green parsley is also visible in the middle. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, quality ingredients is key to capturing the authentic pizza flavors in this recipe. Each item plays a special role—from the robust Italian sausage for savory depth to the creamy mozzarella that blankets every bite in cheesy goodness.

16 ounces rotini pasta: The spiral shape holds onto sauce and cheese beautifully, making every forkful flavorful.
1 tablespoon olive oil + more for tossing: Adds richness and prevents the pasta from sticking together.
1 small yellow onion, diced: Brings subtle sweetness and a tender crunch once sautéed.
6 cloves garlic, minced: Boosts the aroma with that classic Italian punch.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Intensifies garlic flavor for a well-rounded taste.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds extra depth without overpowering the dish.
1 pound Italian sausage: The star protein—spicy, savory, and perfectly crumbly.
28 ounces pizza sauce: The tomato base loaded with herbs and spices to carry the pizza vibe.
1/2 cup water: Keeps the sauce luscious and helps it coat the pasta evenly.
8 ounces shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese: Melts into a gooey, cheesy blanket atop the pasta.
1/2 cup pepperoni: Adds that deliciously crispy and spicy pizza topping experience.
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Offers a salty, nutty finish both inside and as garnish.
Kosher salt: Essential seasoning to bring out all the flavors.
Fresh cracked pepper: Provides a mild heat and aromatic kick.
Fresh chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, and red pepper flakes for garnish: Brightens up the dish and adds a final pop of color and flavor.

How to Make Pepperoni and Sausage Pizza Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pasta

Start by heating your oven to 375 degrees so it’s ready when you need to bake. Cook the rotini pasta just until al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite—this is important because it will continue cooking in the oven. Toss the cooked pasta with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper to infuse flavor and prevent clumping. Set it aside while you prepare the savory sausage mixture.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Cook Sausage

In a large sauté pan over medium heat, warm a tablespoon of olive oil. Add your diced yellow onion, seasoning it with a pinch of salt and pepper to help draw out moisture and sweetness. Cook while stirring frequently for about 4 minutes until translucent and tender. Stir in minced garlic along with garlic and onion powders to elevate all those lovely Italian flavors, cooking just one more minute so the aromas bloom. Now add the crumbled Italian sausage and cook it stirring often until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through, turning your kitchen into an irresistible pizza-scented paradise.

Step 3: Combine Sauce, Pasta, and Meat

Pour in the pizza sauce and water, stirring everything together until well mixed. Add the cooked rotini and toss to coat every twist and turn of pasta with the savory sausage and tomato sauce. If your pan is oven-safe, you’re a step ahead; if not, transfer this layered deliciousness into a 9×13 baking dish to get ready for the bake.

Step 4: Layer Cheese and Pepperoni, Then Bake

Scatter shredded mozzarella and pepperoni evenly across the top, making sure the cheese covers the surface for that golden melt. Cover the dish with foil to keep moisture in and bake for about 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and the edges get bubbly and inviting. For a final touch, remove the foil and broil for 1 to 2 minutes to get those lovely pepperoni edges crispy and slightly charred—utter perfection.

How to Serve Pepperoni and Sausage Pizza Pasta Recipe

The image shows a close-up top view of a round white pot filled with spiral pasta mixed with a chunky red meat sauce, evenly spread throughout. The pasta is a light orange color from the sauce, with visible textured pieces of ground meat in dark reddish-brown, giving a rich and hearty look. The pot has two white handles on each side and is placed on a white marbled surface, creating a clean and bright background. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley adds a vibrant pop of green that contrasts wonderfully with the rich reds and golden cheese, while a sprinkle of grated Parmesan gives an extra layer of savory depth. If you’re a fan of a little heat, red pepper flakes bring the perfect zing to wake up every forkful without overwhelming the dish.

Side Dishes

This hearty pasta stands beautifully on its own but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables brightens the meal and balances out the indulgence. Garlic bread is always a welcome companion here, enhancing the pizza vibes and providing a crunchy texture contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or fun family dinners, serve the Pepperoni and Sausage Pizza Pasta Recipe in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for a personalized touch. Alternatively, bake it in a deep-dish style and scoop it out buffet-style for easy serving. Either way, the melty cheese pulls and rich aroma will be a showstopper.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to airtight containers and refrigerate. This pasta holds up well and makes for a delicious next-day meal. Just stir gently before reheating to bring back the saucy, cheesy goodness without it drying out.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this Pepperoni and Sausage Pizza Pasta Recipe freezes nicely. Pack it in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to ensure even warming throughout.

Reheating

The best way to reheat is in the oven at 350 degrees, uncovered, until bubbly and warmed through, about 15–20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short bursts, stirring occasionally, to avoid drying out the pasta or toughening the cheese.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini is ideal because it holds sauce well, you can substitute with penne, rigatoni, or even fusilli. Just be sure to cook it al dente for the best texture.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Swap out the Italian sausage and pepperoni for plant-based alternatives or use extra vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers for a vegetarian-friendly version that still packs plenty of flavor.

Can I prepare this recipe without an oven?

If you don’t have access to an oven, you can finish it on the stovetop by covering the sauté pan after adding cheese to melt it gently. The texture will be slightly different, but still delicious.

How spicy is this dish?

The recipe has a moderate level of spice thanks to the Italian sausage and pepperoni. You can adjust heat by choosing mild or spicy sausage and controlling the amount of red pepper flakes added as garnish.

What kind of pizza sauce should I use?

Opt for your favorite jarred pizza sauce to keep things simple, or make your own with canned tomatoes and Italian herbs for a homemade touch. The sauce choice will influence the brightness and herb notes in the final dish.

Final Thoughts

This Pepperoni and Sausage Pizza Pasta Recipe is such a joyful celebration of flavors that combine the best of two beloved dishes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights yet special enough to impress guests, and it invites you to get creative with toppings and sides. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s become one of my favorite recipes to share and return to again and again. So go on, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this cheesy, saucy, pepperoni-packed delight!