Noodles Little Italy
A hearty and cheesy pasta bake with flavorful tomato sauce and sliced pepperoni, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, combining comfort and bold Italian flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni in 2 quarts of water; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, combine the whole tomatoes, tomato sauce, chopped onion, garlic salt, oregano, and chopped pepperoni (reserve 6 or 7 slices for garnish). Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes.
- In a large bowl or pan, combine the sauce and cooked macaroni; mix well.
- Place half of the mixture in a greased 2-quart casserole dish and fold in half of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
- Add the remaining macaroni mixture into the casserole and fold in the remaining cheese, reserving some cheese for topping.
- Garnish the top with pepperoni slices and shredded cheese, then sprinkle with paprika.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, sauté the chopped onion in olive oil before adding it to the sauce. You can substitute elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. If you like a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. For a twist, consider incorporating ingredients from other Italian recipes, like sautéed vegetables or cooked Italian sausage.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or warm garlic bread for a complete meal. For a classic Italian touch, serve it alongside a glass of red wine. You can also pair it with other Italian favorites like Stuffed Manicotti With Four Cheeses or Zesty Italian Wontons for a themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, in 1-2 minute increments until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Noodles Little Italy contains roughly 278 calories, with 10g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (177% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (132% of the Daily Value), and calcium (105% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. It also contributes 37g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Monterey Jack cheese adds a nice creaminess, you can substitute it with mozzarella, cheddar, or even a blend of Italian cheeses for a more robust flavor. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the melting and flavor profile of the dish.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the pepperoni and consider adding more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the sauce. You can also enhance the flavor by adding cooked lentils or beans for protein, keeping it hearty and satisfying without meat.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Assemble everything in the greased dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).