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Introduction
Ingredients
Timing
Step-by-Step Instructions
Nutritional Information
Healthier Alternatives
Serving Suggestions
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Storing and Reheating
Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions

Cheesy Pepperoni Potato Casserole – Easy Dinner Recipe

Craving a Quick, Comforting, and Ultra-Cheesy Dinner?

Are you constantly on the hunt for weeknight dinner recipes that are both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly quick to prepare, especially when the comfort food cravings hit hard? Look no further than this Cheesy Pepperoni Potato Casserole. This isn’t just any casserole; it’s a delectable one-pan wonder that masterfully blends the irresistible flavors of pizza and pasta. Imagine tender gnocchi swimming in a rich marinara sauce, generously studded with crispy pepperoni, and blanketed under a mountain of melted, gooey cheese. It’s the kind of meal that transforms an ordinary evening into a joyous feast, guaranteed to be a massive hit with everyone at the table, from the pickiest eaters to the most discerning adult palates. This recipe is designed for simplicity, delivering maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Get ready to dive into a culinary creation that’s as easy to make as it is to devour!

Ingredients for Your Cheesy Pepperoni Potato Casserole

Gather these simple ingredients to create this flavor-packed, comforting casserole. We’ve suggested some easy swaps to keep things flexible!

1 (16-ounce) package potato gnocchi: The pillowy soft potato dumplings form the tender base of our casserole. Substitution: If you can’t find gnocchi, large pasta shells or rotini would also work beautifully, though they will require slightly longer cooking.
1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce: Choose your favorite, whether it’s a classic, a chunky vegetable, or even a spicy arrabbiata for an extra kick. Look for one with rich, robust tomato flavor.
1 cup chopped pepperoni: Mini pepperoni slices are ideal as they crisp up nicely, but larger ones, chopped, will deliver intense flavor.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The ultimate melter, providing that iconic stretchy, gooey cheese pull.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty, nutty depth of flavor that complements the mozzarella.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For crisping the pepperoni.
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary to enhance the Italian-American flavors.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: For a subtle, savory garlic note.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: To enhance and balance all the flavors. Be mindful of the saltiness of your pepperoni and Parmesan.
Optional Garnish: Fresh basil leaves, chopped parsley, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra flourish and to add freshness or heat.

The Perfect Timing for Your Cheesy Creation

Prep time: 10 Minutes

Cook time: 25-30 Minutes

Total time: 35-40 Minutes

This Cheesy Pepperoni Potato Casserole truly lives up to its “easy dinner” promise. With just about 10 minutes of hands-on prep, you’re ready to pop it in the oven. The cooking time is a swift 25-30 minutes, making the total time under 40 minutes. This is significantly faster than the average casserole, which often requires an hour or more of baking. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty, delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

A bubbling Cheesy Pepperoni Potato Casserole in a baking dish, with visible layers of marinara, gnocchi, pepperoni, and melted cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Assemble Your Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish

First things first, let’s get our oven roaring! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish – this is the stage for our delicious creation. You don’t need to grease it since the marinara sauce will provide plenty of moisture, but if you’re worried about sticking, a quick spray of cooking oil or a light brush of olive oil won’t hurt.

Step 2: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked potato gnocchi with the entire jar of marinara sauce. Give it a good stir, ensuring each pillowy gnocchi is coated in that rich, saucy goodness. The sauce will help the gnocchi cook evenly in the oven.

Step 3: Add Pepperoni and Seasonings

Now for that irresistible pepperoni flavor! Add the chopped pepperoni to the bowl with the gnocchi and sauce. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a generous pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. If you’re using them, add about half of your shredded mozzarella and all of your Parmesan cheese now to meld the flavors throughout the casserole.

Step 4: Top with Cheese

Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This is where the magic happens visually! Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the gnocchi and pepperoni mixture. Aim for complete coverage; we want a beautiful, golden-brown cheesy topping.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish into your preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese on top is beautifully melted and lightly golden brown. You want to see those delightful edges of pepperoni peeking through the cheese!

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes. This crucial step allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve and preventing it from being too runny. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Approximate Nutritional Information

Please note that nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

Calories: ~450-550 per serving (this will vary significantly based on cheese and pepperoni fat content)
Protein: ~18-25g
Fat: ~20-30g (includes saturated fat)
Carbohydrates: ~45-55g (primarily from gnocchi)
Fiber: ~3-5g
Sodium: ~800-1200mg (can be high due to sauce, pepperoni, and cheese)

Healthier Alternatives for a Lighter Dish

Want to lighten up this comforting casserole without sacrificing too much flavor? Here are a few smart swaps:

Lower-Fat Cheese: Use part-skim mozzarella and reduced-fat Parmesan. While they may not melt quite as luxuriously, they significantly cut down on fat and calories.
Turkey or Lean Pepperoni: Opt for turkey pepperoni or a leaner beef pepperoni option. These can provide the flavor with less saturated fat.
Add Vegetables: Bulk up the casserole with extra vegetables. Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, or even a handful of spinach stirred into the marinara sauce can add nutrients and volume without many extra calories.
Whole Wheat Gnocchi or Pasta: If using pasta instead of gnocchi, choose whole wheat options for added fiber.
Homemade Marinara: Making your own marinara sauce allows you to control the sodium and sugar content, and you can load it with extra veggies.

Serving Suggestions

This Cheesy Pepperoni Potato Casserole is a meal in itself, but here are some ideas to round out your dinner:

A Simple Green Salad: A crisp, fresh salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect counterpoint to the richness of the casserole.
Garlic Bread or Crusty Rolls: For soaking up any extra delicious sauce.
Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: A simple side of steamed vegetables adds a healthy, fresh element to the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

Overcooking the Gnocchi: Remember, the gnocchi will cook further in the oven. If you boil them first, they will become mushy. This recipe uses uncooked gnocchi directly from the package.
Not Enough Sauce: The gnocchi need ample sauce to cook properly and prevent dryness. Don’t skimp!
Skipping the Resting Time: Letting the casserole rest allows it to firm up. Serving immediately can result in a watery consistency.
Using Stale Spices: Ensure your Italian seasoning and garlic powder are fresh for the best flavor.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Leftover Cheesy Pepperoni Potato Casserole is a treasure! Store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To Reheat:

Oven: The best method for maintaining texture. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through (about 15-20 minutes). You may want to cover it loosely with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning.
Microwave: For a quicker reheat, place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring gently in between, until hot. This method can sometimes result in a slightly softer texture for the gnocchi.

Close-up of a slice of Cheesy Pepperoni Potato Casserole on a plate, showing the texture of gnocchi, melted cheese, and pepperoni.

Your New Go-To Weeknight Dinner

This Cheesy Pepperoni Potato Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl! Its simplicity, speed, and incredibly comforting, familiar flavors make it an absolute winner for busy families and anyone seeking a satisfying, no-fuss dinner. From the tender gnocchi to the savory pepperoni and the glorious melted cheese, every bite is a delight. Give this recipe a try this week – we’re confident it will become a cherished staple in your dinner rotation. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of marinara sauce is best?

Use your favorite jarred marinara sauce! A classic, robust tomato flavor works best. If you like a little heat, an arrabbiata sauce would also be delicious. You can also make your own homemade marinara for even more control over the flavor.

Can I use regular pasta instead of gnocchi?

Absolutely! While gnocchi provides a unique, pillowy texture, about 2 cups of cooked pasta (like rotini, penne, or shells) can be substituted. If using uncooked pasta, you’ll need to adjust the baking time significantly, likely requiring adding liquid and covering the dish to ensure the pasta cooks through. Using pre-cooked pasta is the easiest direct swap.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. You may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely. It’s best to add the top layer of cheese just before baking if assembling ahead.

How do I make the pepperoni crispier?

For crispier pepperoni, you can sauté the chopped pepperoni in a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat for a few minutes until it starts to curl and crisp up. Drain off any excess grease before adding it to the casserole mixture. Alternatively, you can spread the pepperoni on a separate baking sheet and bake it for about 5-7 minutes at the same temperature as the casserole. Add the crisped pepperoni on top of the cheese layer during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

Can I add other vegetables?

Of course! Sautéed mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, zucchini, or even a few handfuls of spinach (wilted first) would be delicious additions to this casserole. Stir them into the marinara sauce before combining with the gnocchi.