Introduction

If you’re craving a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the savory, spicy goodness of sausage and pepperoni with a cheesy, crispy crust, then this Spicy Sausage and Pepperoni Rice Bake with Mozzarella Crust is exactly what you need. This casserole-style recipe is packed with bold Italian flavors, tender rice, and gooey mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this dish is both hearty and satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice and transform it into a crowd-pleasing meal. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients:

For the Rice Bake:
- 2 cups cooked long-grain white rice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 pound spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the spicy Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes until the sausage is browned and cooked through.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Pepperoni

Stir in the diced red and green bell peppers, cooking for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
Add the sliced pepperoni and continue to cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Mix in the Tomatoes and Seasonings

Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste, mixing well.
Add the dried oregano, basil, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine with Rice

In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice with the sausage and pepperoni mixture until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Assemble the Rice Bake

Transfer the rice mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Top the rice with an even layer of shredded mozzarella cheese, followed by a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

COOKING Notes:

You can substitute Italian sausage with turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a healthier or vegetarian option.
Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less crushed red pepper flakes based on your preference.
Use a mix of mozzarella and provolone cheese for a more complex cheesy flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this Spicy Sausage and Pepperoni Rice Bake with a fresh side salad for a balanced meal.
Pair with garlic bread or a toasted baguette to soak up the rich, tomatoey sauce.
For a complete Italian-style dinner, serve alongside a glass of red wine, like Chianti or Merlot.

Tips:

For an extra crispy crust, broil the rice bake for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
If you prefer a smokier flavor, use smoked mozzarella or add a sprinkle of smoked paprika.
This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Just allow for a few extra minutes of baking time if refrigerated.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

40 minutes

Total Time:

55 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 520
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 26g
Sodium: 950mg
Fiber: 3g

Conclusion

This Spicy Sausage and Pepperoni Rice Bake with Mozzarella Crust is a delightful twist on traditional casseroles. It brings together the flavors of a classic Italian pizza and the comfort of a baked rice dish, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a potluck gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its spicy kick and cheesy, satisfying finish. Give it a try, and watch it become a new favorite in your meal rotation!

Spicy Sausage and Pepperoni Rice Bake with Mozzarella Crust

Author: Imili Johnson
Total Time: 55 minutes

Print Recipe

Ingredients

Scale

For the Rice Bake:

2 cups cooked long-grain white rice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, finely diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 pound spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
1 cup sliced pepperoni
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1/4 cup tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions