Go Back
Mini pasta pie bites are quickly becoming a favorite in contemporary home cooking, offering a delightful twist on traditional dishes. These charming little morsels combine the best of both worlds: the comforting heartiness of pasta and the beloved flavors of pizza. Perfectly portioned for individual enjoyment, mini pasta pie bites are an excellent choice for various occasions, whether you're hosting a lively party, enjoying a family gathering, or planning a cozy movie night at home. Their versatility allows them to fit seamlessly into any menu, making them an irresistible addition that everyone will love.

Mini Pepperoni Pasta Pie Bites

Discover the joy of mini pepperoni pasta pie bites, the perfect blend of pizza and pasta in a delightful, shareable format. These bite-sized treats feature a crispy exterior, creamy cheesy filling, and savory pepperoni, making them ideal for parties, game nights, or family dinners. With easy adjustments for various dietary preferences, everyone can enjoy this comforting dish. Try them for your next gathering and watch them disappear in no time!

Ingredients
  

2 cups cavatappi pasta (or any small pasta of choice)

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for serving)

1/2 cup sliced pepperoni

1 large egg

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Olive oil (for greasing the muffin tin)

Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with olive oil.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the cavatappi pasta for about 7-8 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Mix the Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, oregano, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

        Combine Pasta and Filling: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese mixture, along with half of the pepperoni slices. Stir until the pasta is well coated with the cheese mixture.

          Assemble the Bites: Spoon the pasta mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full. Press down slightly to ensure they hold together. Top each pasta bite with a spoonful of marinara sauce and a few extra pepperoni slices.

            Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese is bubbling.

              Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for about 5 minutes. Carefully run a knife around the edges to loosen the pasta bites, then gently remove them from the muffin tin. Serve warm with additional marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 35 minutes | Makes 12 mini bites