Description
A fun, flavorful pizza pasta salad with your favorite toppings, great for potlucks, picnics, or lunch!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle work best)
- 1/2 cup pepperoni, sliced or cubed
- 1/2 cup cooked Italian sausage, crumbled
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed or shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup banana peppers, sliced (optional)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/4 cup Italian dressing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain in a colander, rinse with cold water, and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Prepare the Pizza Toppings: Prepare the pepperoni and sausage. Dice the green bell pepper and red onion into small, even pieces. Slice the olives and cherry tomatoes. Cube or shred the mozzarella cheese. Slice the banana peppers (optional).
- Make the Pizza Pasta Salad Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the pizza sauce and Italian dressing. Add the garlic powder, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings.
- Assemble the Pizza Pasta Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, pepperoni, sausage, olives, green bell pepper, red onion, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, cherry tomatoes, and banana peppers (if using).
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture.
- Toss gently to coat evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve chilled.
Notes
- Customize: Use your favorite pizza toppings! Mushrooms, pineapple, spinach, artichoke hearts, and sun-dried tomatoes are great additions.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the pepperoni and sausage and add extra vegetables or vegetarian sausage crumbles.
- Pasta Variety: Use bow tie pasta, elbow macaroni, or even tortellini.
- Creamy Twist: Add a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or mayonnaise to the dressing.
- Spice It Up: Add more red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.
- Fresh Herbs: Add chopped fresh basil, oregano, or parsley just before serving.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes