Pizza Baked Spaghetti from Fazoli's features al dente spaghetti baked with rich marinara sauce, melted mozzarella and parmesan cheeses, pepperoni slices, and Italian herbs, topped with a golden, bubbly crust that combines the flavors of classic pizza and hearty pasta.
Equipments
- Oven
- Baking dish
- Large pot
- Colander
- Mixing bowl
- Cheese grater
- Ladle or large spoon
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) spaghetti
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 20-30 slices pepperoni
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Olive oil
Choose high-quality marinara sauce to ensure a rich and flavorful base for your Pizza Baked Spaghetti. Use freshly grated parmesan and shredded mozzarella to achieve the best melt and texture in the cheesy topping. The amount of pepperoni can be adjusted to your taste, but 20-30 slices evenly distributed provide the optimal balance of savory flavor. Make sure the spaghetti is cooked al dente, as it will continue to cook during baking and maintain a desirable firmness. Your homemade Pizza Baked Spaghetti from Fazoli's copycat menu will shine with these carefully selected ingredients, bringing the authentic taste of this comforting dish right to your table.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil water in a large pot, add salt, and cook spaghetti until al dente. Drain using a colander.
- Lightly oil a baking dish with olive oil.
- In a mixing bowl, toss cooked spaghetti with marinara sauce, salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning.
- Spread half of the spaghetti mixture evenly in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and half of the parmesan cheese over the spaghetti.
- Layer remaining spaghetti mixture on top.
- Add the rest of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
- Arrange pepperoni slices evenly over the cheese layer.
- Sprinkle remaining Italian seasoning on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Substitution
Pizza Baked Spaghetti from Fazoli's copycat menu can be adapted if you don't have pepperoni; try using cooked Italian sausage, sliced mushrooms, or roasted vegetables for a different twist. Instead of mozzarella, a mix of provolone and cheddar can add a unique flavor while still providing a melty texture. If you lack marinara sauce, homemade tomato sauce seasoned with garlic, basil, and oregano works well as a substitute. When baking, ensure your spaghetti is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy under the cheese crust. You can customize the Italian seasoning by using fresh herbs if dried are unavailable.
Tips
Make sure to cook the spaghetti just until al dente to avoid mushy texture after baking. Use a baking dish large enough to spread the spaghetti mixture evenly, which helps the cheese melt uniformly and the pepperoni cook properly. When tossing the pasta with marinara and seasoning, taste it to adjust salt and pepper because the cheese and pepperoni add additional saltiness. Your patience during the 5-minute resting period after baking allows the flavors to meld and the dish to set for cleaner slices.
Nutritions
Pizza Baked Spaghetti from Fazoli's provides a balanced blend of carbohydrates from al dente spaghetti and protein from mozzarella, parmesan, and pepperoni slices. The marinara sauce contributes antioxidants and vitamins from tomatoes, while Italian herbs add flavor without extra calories. Olive oil offers heart-healthy fats, and the combination of cheeses delivers calcium essential for bone health. Your meal is both flavorful and nutrient-rich, making it a satisfying choice for pasta and pizza lovers.
Storage
Store your leftover Pizza Baked Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat in an oven preheated to 350degF (175degC) for about 15 minutes to restore the crispy, golden cheese topping. Avoid microwaving to maintain the dish's rich texture and flavor combination of marinara sauce, melted cheeses, and pepperoni.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap pepperoni with cooked Italian sausage or sauteed mushrooms for a different flavor profile. Replace marinara sauce with a creamy Alfredo sauce to create a richer, creamier variation that complements the cheese. Try adding chopped bell peppers or onions to the spaghetti mixture for extra texture and freshness. For a crispier crust, sprinkle a layer of breadcrumbs mixed with grated parmesan on top before baking.
Allergies
Pizza Baked Spaghetti from Fazoli's contains common allergens such as wheat in the spaghetti and gluten in the bread crust. Dairy allergens are present in the mozzarella and parmesan cheeses, which could affect individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergy. Your sensitivity to pork or cured meats should be considered due to the pepperoni slices included in the dish.
Why this recipe?
People love the Pizza Baked Spaghetti from Fazoli's for its unique fusion of classic Italian flavors with a savory baked twist, combining gooey cheese, rich marinara sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti in a crispy pizza crust. The dish offers a comforting yet innovative dining experience that satisfies cravings for both pasta and pizza in one bite. Trying to make the copycat version allows you to recreate this delicious blend at home, customizing ingredients to your taste while saving money. Your kitchen becomes a creative space to enjoy a restaurant-quality favorite anytime.