Cheesy Pepperoni Potato Casserole – Easy Dinner Idea

If you’re in search of an simple, cozy and delicious casserole this cheesey pepperoni potato casserole is the perfect dish. It’s an easy one-pan meal filled with the rich flavor of marinara sauce, melty cheese, crisp pepperoni, and soft Gnocchi. This dish is a blend combination of both pasta and pizza flavours which makes it an absolute hit with kids as well as adults.

Let’s take a look at this simple-to-make, super-cheesy and delicious dish recipe!

Ingredients for Cheesy Pepperoni Potato Casserole

You’ll require the following easy pantry staples:

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 12-15 pepperoni slices
• 1/2 cup of black olives
• 1 Tablespoon olive oil

Seasonings & Garnish

• Half teaspoon dry oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon powder of garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon, red pepper Flakes (optional to add spice)
• The fresh leaves of basil (for decoration)

Optional Substitutions

• Make use of cauliflower Gnocchi to make a low-carb alternative.
• Switch out pepperoni in exchange to prepared Italian saute as well as mushrooms.
• Try making a vodka sauce instead of marinara to give an extra creamy flavor.

How to Make Cheesy Pepperoni Potato Casserole – Step by Step

Step1: Preheat & Prep

Pre-heat your oven to 350degF (190degC).

Step2: Cook the Gnocchi

Prepare an enormous saucepan of salted and salted water a simmer then cook the Gnocchi in accordance with the directions on the package. Remove and place aside.

Step3: Saute the Gnocchi

Then, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet that is oven-safe in a skillet that is oven-safe. Cook over moderate temperature. Add the gnocchi that have been cooked and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become lightly golden.

Step4: Add Marinara & Cheese

Sprinkle 2 cups of the marinara onto the gnocchi and stir to coat. Sprinkle half of mozzarella and the entire Parmesan cheese on top.

Step5: Layer the Toppings

Place on top the pieces of pepperoni and black olives sliced over the top. Then sprinkle all of the remainder of mozzarella cheese all over the top.

Step6: Season & Bake

Sprinkle with oregano with garlic powder, oregano, and red pepper flake to enhance the flavor. Place the pan in the baking oven to bake 15 to 20 minutes until you’re sure that the cheddar is golden and bubbly.

Step7: Garnish & Serve

Remove the pan from the oven, and decorate with freshly cut basil leaves. Serve hot and take your time!

Helpful Tips for Cheesy Pepperoni Potato Casserole

• Crispier pepperoni? Broil the casserole for the final 3 to 5 minutes to create a crisp topping.
• Are you looking for something more creamy? Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream or ricotta into the marinara dressing.
• Beware of gnocchi that are soggy by sautéing them prior to adding sauce.

Cooking Tips for the Best Cheesy Pepperoni Potato Casserole

Best Cheese to Use

• Mozzarella: For the classic gooey, stretchy melt.
• Parmesan It gives a sharp salty kick.
• Cheddar To give a better flavor, more rich.

Equipment Needed

• Oven-safe skillet (or a casserole dish).
• Big pot to cook Gnocchi.
• Cheese grated to make cheese that is freshly shredded (melts better than already shredded! ).

Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Pepperoni Potato Casserole

Serve this cheesecake dish with:

• Garlic Bread also known as the buttery bread sticks.
• Caesar salad for a fresh, crunchy contrast.
• Red wine, a glass such as Chianti and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Nutritional Information

It’s delicious and satisfying. Here’s the nutrition breakdown for each serving:

Calories: 380 kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fats: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Fiber: 3g

Note: The values could differ depending on the ingredients brands and the size of portions.

Storage and Leftovers for Cheesy Pepperoni Potato Casserole

How to Store:

• Refrigerator Place in a sealed airtight box up to three days.
• Freezer The freezer can be kept inside an tightly sealed plastic container for up to 2 months.

How to Reheat:

• Oven Heat at 350 degF (175degC) for 10 to 15 minutes.
• Microwaves: Heat in intervals of 30 seconds until it is warmed up.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Cheesy Pepperoni Potato Casserole

1. Can I do this ahead?

Yes! You can prepare this dish for up to one day ahead and then refrigerate it and bake when it is ready.

2. Can I substitute another kind of pasta in place of Gnocchi?

Absolutely! Penne, Rigatoni or fusilli are all great choices for this dish.

3. Does this dish have a spicy flavor?

Red pepper flakes red pepper chips provide a mild hot flavor, but you are able to remove them to get more of a more milder flavor.

4. Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Simply remove that pepperoni or substitute it with bell peppers, mushrooms or even spinach.

Related Recipes for Cheesy Comfort Food Lovers

If you’re a fan of delicious casseroles with a cheesy flavor then check out these recipes that are similar:

• Irresistible Broccoli Cheese Bites – Healthy Snack
• Cheesy Sausage and Egg Wraps – Easy Breakfast Idea

Conclusion

The Cheesey Casserole with Potatoes is an simple, quick and extremely comforting dish that blends all the great the pizza as well as pasta. It doesn’t matter if you’re cooking it to serve for an evening meal, a evening meal on a weeknight or it’s for a potluck or simply needing something sweet and delicious it’s an absolute success.

Do you have this dish?

Tell us in the comments below how you liked it! Don’t forget to post your personal variations and share them with us on social media.

Enjoy your delicious, cheesy casserole!

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