Pizza pasta skewers are the ultimate crowd-pleasing recipe that brings together two favorites—pizza and pasta—into one fun, handheld bite. If you’re looking for an easy appetizer, kid-friendly snack, or party food that disappears fast, these pizza pasta skewers check every box.
They’re cheesy, customizable, quick to make, and perfect for everything from game day spreads to lunchboxes and casual get-togethers. Best of all, you don’t need any fancy equipment or complicated steps to pull them off.
Why You’ll Love These Pizza Pasta Skewers
- Quick and easy: Ready in about 20 minutes from start to finish
- Perfect for parties: No plates required—just grab and enjoy
- Kid-approved: Fun to eat and easy to customize with favorite toppings
- Budget-friendly: Simple pantry ingredients go a long way
- Endlessly versatile: Make them vegetarian, gluten-free, or protein-packed
These skewers take the comfort of baked pasta and the flavor of pizza and turn them into a playful, dippable snack that feels special without being complicated.
Ingredients for Pizza Pasta Skewers
Main Ingredients
- Pasta: Penne works best, but rigatoni or ziti are great options
- Marinara or pizza sauce: Smooth, thick sauce clings best
- Mozzarella cheese: Shredded, whole-milk for best melt
- Mini pepperoni: Classic pizza flavor
- Black olives: Sliced
- Corn kernels: Optional, but adds sweetness and color
- Red pepper flakes: Optional garnish for a little heat
Optional Add-Ins
- Cherry tomatoes
- Cooked mushrooms
- Bell peppers
- Fresh basil or parsley
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
- Pasta shape: Short, sturdy pasta is key. Avoid long noodles like spaghetti.
- Cheese swaps: Try provolone, Monterey Jack, or a pizza-blend cheese.
- Pork-free option: Swap pepperoni for turkey pepperoni, cooked chicken, or mushrooms.
- Vegetarian version: Skip the meat and add extra veggies.
- Vegan option: Use dairy-free mozzarella and plant-based pepperoni.
- Gluten-free: Gluten-free penne works well—just cook carefully so it stays firm.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain well and let it cool slightly.
Tip: Do not overcook the pasta. Firm pasta is much easier to thread onto skewers.
Step 2 – Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
If you’re using wooden skewers, there’s no need to soak them since baking time is short.
Step 3 – Assemble the Skewers
Thread 4–5 pieces of pasta onto each skewer, piercing through the center so they lie flat. Lay the skewers on the prepared baking sheet.
Leave a little space between skewers so heat can circulate evenly.
Step 4 – Add Sauce and Toppings
Using a spoon or pastry brush, lightly coat the pasta with marinara or pizza sauce.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over each skewer, then add your toppings—pepperoni, olives, corn, or any favorites you like.
Step 5 – Bake Until Melty
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
For extra browning, switch to broil for the last 30–60 seconds, watching closely.
Step 6 – Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with red pepper flakes or fresh herbs if desired. Let cool slightly before serving.
Serve warm, with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Pro Tips for Success
- Keep pasta firm: Overcooked pasta will fall apart on the skewer.
- Use thick sauce: Watery sauce can drip off and make skewers soggy.
- Don’t overload toppings: Too much can weigh down the pasta.
- Shred your own cheese: It melts better than pre-shredded.
- Serve immediately: These are best warm and melty.
- Make ahead smartly: Assemble first, bake just before serving.
Flavor Variations
- Margherita Style: Mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil
- BBQ Chicken: BBQ sauce, cooked chicken, red onion, mozzarella
- Veggie Supreme: Bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, onions
- Spicy Kick: Spicy marinara, jalapeños, crushed red pepper
- Mediterranean: Feta, olives, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes
Serving Suggestions
Pizza pasta skewers shine as a standalone snack, but they also pair beautifully with:
- A fresh green salad
- Caesar or Italian chopped salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread or breadsticks
- A platter of dips like ranch or marinara
They’re ideal for birthday parties, potlucks, game nights, school events, or casual family dinners.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Refrigerator
Store leftover skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes or in an air fryer for 3–4 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make pasta rubbery.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended, as the pasta texture changes once thawed.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~180 |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 420mg |
Values are approximate and depend on toppings used.
FAQ About Pizza Pasta Skewers
Can I make pizza pasta skewers ahead of time?
Yes. You can assemble the skewers up to 24 hours in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving for best texture and flavor.
What’s the best pasta for pizza pasta skewers?
Short, sturdy shapes like penne, rigatoni, or ziti work best. They’re easy to skewer and hold sauce and cheese well.
Can I cook these in an air fryer?
Absolutely. Air fry at 375°F for 4–5 minutes, checking frequently so the cheese doesn’t burn.
Are pizza pasta skewers good for kids?
Yes! Kids love the fun presentation. You can keep toppings mild or let them build their own for a hands-on meal.
How do I keep the pasta from sticking together?
After draining, toss pasta lightly with olive oil and let it cool slightly before assembling.
Pizza Pasta Skewers
Equipment
- large pot
- baking sheet
- parchment paper
- skewers
- mixing spoon
Ingredients
- 300 g penne pasta (or rigatoni or ziti)
- 120 ml marinara or pizza sauce
- 150 g shredded whole-milk mozzarella cheese
- 80 g mini pepperoni slices
- 40 g sliced black olives
- 60 g corn kernels (optional)
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain well and let cool slightly.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Thread 4–5 pieces of pasta onto each skewer and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between skewers.
- Lightly brush or spoon sauce over the pasta. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly, then add pepperoni, olives, corn, or desired toppings.
- Bake for 5–7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly golden. Broil for 30–60 seconds if extra browning is desired.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with red pepper flakes or fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm with extra sauce for dipping.
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
Pizza pasta skewers are proof that simple ingredients can turn into something truly special. They’re fun, flavorful, and flexible enough to suit almost any occasion or dietary need. Whether you’re hosting a party, feeding picky eaters, or just craving something different for dinner, this recipe delivers every time.
Once you try them, don’t be surprised if pizza pasta skewers become a regular request in your kitchen.