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Homemade Steak & Pepperoni-Style (Beef) Pizza Pasta photo

Steak & Pepperoni-Style (Beef) Pizza Pasta

This Steak & Pepperoni-Style (Beef) Pizza Pasta is a quick, flavor-packed one-pan meal combining pizza and pasta for a delicious weeknight dinner.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Comfort Food, Easy, Family Friendly, Quick
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 cup turkey pepperoni sliced
  • 14 oz crushed tomatoes 1 can
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes optional for a little heat
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Break it up with your spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  • Stir in the turkey pepperoni slices and cook for 2 minutes to release their flavor. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add red pepper flakes if using. Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
  • Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet with the beef and tomato sauce. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce feels too thick.
  • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the pasta, stirring gently to melt the cheese into the sauce. Remove from heat once the cheese has melted and everything is well combined.
  • Dish out the pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread.

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Colander for draining pasta
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Use regular pepperoni instead of turkey pepperoni for a richer, spicier taste.