Quick Pepperoni Pasta

Ready in just 25 minutes, Quick Pepperoni Pasta is the perfect dinner solution for busy weeknights, combining bold flavors and effortless preparation. Tender penne pasta is coated in a zesty tomato-based sauce infused with crispy pepperoni, aromatic garlic, and a subtle kick of crushed red pepper. A touch of Italian seasoning elevates the dish, while freshly grated parmesan and vibrant basil add a finishing flourish. This one-pan wonder strikes the ideal balance between comfort food and gourmet flair, and with minimal prep time, it’s a go-to recipe for any pasta lover. Serve it hot alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread for an irresistible Italian-inspired meal.

Nutriscore Rating: 64/100

Prep Time:5 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 ounces pepperoni slices, halved
• 0.5 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
• 14 ounces canned diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 0.5 teaspoons salt
• 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
• 0.5 cups parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 3

Add the halved pepperoni slices to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to crisp around the edges.

Step 4

Sprinkle the crushed red pepper flakes over the pepperoni, then add the canned diced tomatoes (including their juices). Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

Step 5

Allow the tomato mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

Step 6

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.

Step 7

Turn off the heat and sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the pasta. Toss gently to combine and melt the cheese.

Step 8

Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	937.2 grams (937.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2384

Total Fat 110.90g	142%
Saturated Fat 35.40g	177%
Polyunsaturated Fat 6.10g
Cholesterol 149mg	50%
Sodium 4404mg	191%
Total Carbohydrate 270.10g	98%
Dietary Fiber 20.40g	73%
Total Sugars 11.60g
Protein 83.00g	166%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 635mg	49%
Iron 17mg	94%
Potassium 1707mg	36%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 41.4%

Protein: 13.8%

Carbs: 44.8%