Pepperoni Pizza Penne Pasta

Ingredients

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 1 cup marinara sauce, homemade or store-bought
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 4 ounces mini pepperoni
• 8 ounces mini mozzarella balls
• Basil chopped, garnish
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Pinch of salt and pepper

Directions

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, add the penne, and cook it as directed on the package.
2. As the pasta bubbles away, make the spicy breadcrumb topping if you’re going for it. Melt the butter in a small skillet over low heat, then stir in the breadcrumbs and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring often, for 4 to 5 minutes, until the crumbs are golden and toasty. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Once the penne is done, drain it and put it back in the warm pot. Stir in the marinara sauce and oregano.
4. Take the pot off the heat, then gently fold in the mini pepperoni and mini mozzarella balls.
5. Spoon the pepperoni pizza penne into bowls, then finish with chopped basil and the spicy crispy breadcrumbs, if using.