One Pot Pizza Pasta

Save this recipe on:

Imagine combining the bold, cheesy flavors of a loaded pizza with the comforting texture of pasta—all in one pan. That’s exactly what this One Pot Pizza Pasta delivers. It’s the weeknight dinner savior that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to throw together.

Each forkful brings together tender rotini, rich marinara, pepperoni slices, and gooey melted mozzarella. Black olives and bell peppers give a pop of flavor and color, while Italian seasoning ties it all together with that pizzeria aroma you love.

---

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Rotini or fusilli work best for this recipe because their spiral shapes hold onto the sauce and cheesy bits perfectly. However, penne or ziti are also solid choices if that’s what you have on hand. Just avoid delicate pastas like angel hair—they don’t hold up well in a one-pot bake.

---

Ingredients for the One Pot Pizza Pasta

Rotini Pasta: The sturdy spirals are ideal for grabbing every bit of sauce and cheese.

Marinara Sauce: A classic tomato base that mimics pizza sauce, providing rich, herby flavor.

Pepperoni Slices: Adds that unmistakable pizza essence and a spicy kick.

Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully throughout, delivering those irresistible cheese pulls.

Black Olives: A briny bite that balances the richness of cheese and meat.

Bell Peppers: Adds sweetness and crunch for flavor and texture contrast.

Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives this dish that authentic pizzeria aroma.

Garlic and Onion: Essential aromatic base to deepen the flavor.

Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and adding richness.

Salt & Pepper: Basic but necessary seasoning to bring it all together.

---

How To Make the One Pot Pizza Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Add Bell Peppers and Pepperoni

Toss in the sliced bell peppers and half of the pepperoni. Cook for another 3 minutes, letting the edges caramelize slightly.

Step 3: Pour in Sauce and Pasta

Stir in the marinara sauce and add the uncooked rotini pasta. Pour in just enough water to cover the pasta (around 2 to 2.5 cups). Stir everything to combine.

Step 4: Simmer and Stir

Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Toppings

Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the pasta. Scatter the remaining pepperoni and sliced black olives on top. Cover again and let sit for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Finish with a sprinkle of Italian seasoning and cracked black pepper. Serve hot, straight from the pot, with a side of garlic bread if you like!

---

Serving and Storing One Pot Pizza Pasta

This pasta is best enjoyed hot right after cooking when the cheese is still gooey and the flavors are freshly melded. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic cheese bread for a full meal.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave with a splash of water to keep it moist, or warm it gently on the stovetop.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom?

Make sure to stir occasionally while it simmers and keep the heat on low to medium. Adding a bit of olive oil helps too.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just skip the pepperoni or use a plant-based version. You can also add mushrooms or extra bell peppers for a heartier veggie option.

What cheese works best besides mozzarella?

Try a mix of mozzarella and provolone, or even pepper jack if you like a bit of heat.

Can I use pre-cooked pasta?

Yes, but reduce the water and cooking time accordingly. Add the pasta near the end with the sauce, heat through, then top with cheese.

Is this freezer-friendly?

Not ideal. The texture of the pasta can become mushy after freezing and thawing. It’s best made fresh or stored short-term in the fridge.

---

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love this One Pot Pizza Pasta, you might want to check out these other hearty and flavorful pasta favorites:

• One Pot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta for savory steak and peppers in creamy cheese sauce.
• Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta for a bright and herby twist.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta for ultimate comfort food vibes.
• Crack Chicken Penne for a creamy, cheesy, bacon-packed option.
• Creamy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta for a little spice and a lot of flavor.

---

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap out the pepperoni or go vegetarian? Did you sneak in some mushrooms or extra cheese?

I love seeing your kitchen twists. Feel free to ask any questions too—we’re all in this delicious mess together.

Looking for more crave-worthy creations? Follow me on Pinterest for daily recipe inspiration from my kitchen to yours: Kitchen By Kate on Pinterest

---

Print

Save this recipe on: