If you’re on the hunt for a comfort food that’s both quick and delicious, look no further than this Cheesy Pepperoni Potato Casserole. This dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, fusing the beloved flavors of pizza and pasta into a single, satisfying meal. With layers of tender potato gnocchi, rich marinara sauce, and heaps of melting cheese, it’s a feast that’s sure to delight both kids and adults alike. The crispy pepperoni adds the perfect finishing touch, creating a savory dish that offers everyone’s favorite pizza flavors and comforts of home-cooked comfort food.
Making this Cheesy Pepperoni Potato Casserole is a breeze. You can whip it up in just one pan, so cleanup is a snap! This easy dinner recipe is not just quick to prepare; it’s also highly versatile. You can customize your ingredients to suit your family’s preferences or dietary needs. Whether you choose to go the traditional route or switch things up with some delicious variations, this casserole is your ticket to a scrumptious meal that nourishes both body and spirit. Let’s dive into how you can make this delightful casserole at home!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Pepperoni Potato Casserole
- Quick and Easy: Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe can be prepared in 30 minutes.
- Family-Friendly: A dish that kids will adore while adults can appreciate the delightful blend of flavors.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required, making it convenient for any home cook.
- Customizable Ingredients: Tailor it to your dietary needs with alternative ingredients.
- Cheesy Goodness: With mozzarella and Parmesan, every bite is a creamy delight.
- Comfort Food: Perfect for chilly nights or any time you need a warm, satisfying meal.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into your cooking adventure, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a perfectly baked casserole. You’ll need a large pot for boiling the gnocchi and an oven-safe skillet for the final stage of the recipe.
To get the most out of your dish, consider using a non-stick skillet to sauté the gnocchi until they turn golden brown—this adds texture and flavor. Make sure to have a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring and mixing ingredients effectively. If you wish to enhance the toppings, a grater will come in handy for shredding your mozzarella cheese or grating Parmesan right before using it for a fresher flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12–15 pepperoni slices
- ½ cup sliced black olives
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to create the perfect conditions for baking your casserole. While your oven warms up, gather your ingredients so everything is at your fingertips when you need it. This helps streamline the cooking process.
Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi
In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the potato gnocchi and follow the package instructions for cooking time—usually just a few minutes until they float to the surface. Once cooked, drain them well in a colander and set aside, ensuring they are ready for the sautéing process.
Step 3: Sauté the Gnocchi
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the cooked gnocchi to the hot skillet and sauté them for about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial as it gives the gnocchi a lovely golden color and adds a bit of crunch. Keep an eye on them and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Add Marinara & Cheese
Once the gnocchi are perfectly sautéed, pour in the 2 cups of marinara sauce, stirring gently to ensure all of the gnocchi are well-coated. This not only enhances the flavor but creates a delicious base. After that, generously sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese and the entire amount of Parmesan cheese over the top, allowing for a rich, cheesy layer.
Step 5: Layer the Toppings
Now it’s time to get creative with your toppings! Arrange the pepperoni slices and sliced black olives in an even layer over the cheese. Top it off by sprinkling the rest of the mozzarella cheese evenly over the entire casserole, so it melts beautifully in the oven.
Step 6: Season & Bake
To elevate the flavors even further, sprinkle dried oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes over the dish. This blend of seasoning not only adds depth but also a little kick if you choose to add the red pepper flakes. Carefully move the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, creating that irresistible melted cheese crust.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven using oven mitts—it’s going to be hot! Garnish your casserole with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and watch everyone dive in eagerly!
Variations
- Protein: Swap out pepperoni for cooked Italian sausage or seasoned ground turkey for a different taste.
- Vegetables: Add in mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Spices: Introduce Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for an aromatic twist.
Cooking Notes
- For crispier pepperoni, consider broiling the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes until they are crunchy.
- If you desire an extra creamy texture, incorporate ½ cup of ricotta or heavy cream into the marinara sauce before adding it to the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh salad and garlic bread for a complete meal that’s perfect for family gatherings.
- This casserole also goes well with a light white wine, enhancing the flavors of the dish.
Tips
- To avoid soggy gnocchi, make sure to sauté them properly before adding the marinara sauce.
- Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, reheating in the oven for the best texture.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 460 per serving
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 900mg
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance, assemble it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking it. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
Can I substitute the gnocchi for something else?
Absolutely! You can use cauliflower gnocchi for a lower-carb option or any type of pasta you love, following the cooking instructions closely.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results, as microwaving may make the gnocchi chewy.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! To freeze, cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Pepperoni Potato Casserole brings together the comfort of a warm, cheesy meal with the convenience of easy preparation. It’s the perfect dish for busy families or for anyone craving something delicious, cozy, and satisfying. With plenty of options for customization, you can adjust it to fit any dietary preference or ingredient availability. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this casserole is bound to be a hit. Be sure to let us know your variations in the comments below, and enjoy this hearty meal with your loved ones!
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Cheesy Pepperoni Potato Casserole
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Pepperoni Potato Casserole is a comfort food combining pizza and pasta flavors, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12–15 pepperoni slices
- ½ cup sliced black olives
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to create the perfect conditions for baking your casserole. While your oven warms up, gather your ingredients.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the potato gnocchi and follow the package instructions for cooking time.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the cooked gnocchi to the hot skillet and sauté them for about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Once the gnocchi are perfectly sautéed, pour in the 2 cups of marinara sauce, stirring gently to ensure all of the gnocchi are well-coated.
- Arrange the pepperoni slices and sliced black olives in an even layer over the cheese, then sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese evenly over the entire casserole.
- Sprinkle dried oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes over the dish. Move the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and garnish your casserole with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot.
Notes
This casserole is customizable; feel free to swap ingredients based on your dietary preferences.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 460 kcal
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Protein: 20 g