This Crockpot Pizza Casserole is a fun twist on pizza! It layers pasta, sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings all cooked together for an easy and tasty meal.
What I love most? You just throw everything in the crockpot and let it do the work. It’s perfect for busy days when pizza cravings hit! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Ziti or rigatoni works great, but you can use any pasta shape you like! Penne or farfalle would also do well. Just remember to use uncooked pasta for it to soak up the flavors while cooking.
Ground Meat: You can use ground beef or Italian sausage for a richer flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, lean turkey or chicken works well too. For a meat-free version, try using mushrooms, bell peppers, or a plant-based sausage!
Pizza Sauce: The sauce is key for flavor! If you don’t have pizza sauce, marinara sauce is a great alternative. You could also make your own by mixing tomato sauce with Italian herbs and spices.
Cheese: Mozzarella is a must for that cheesy stretch. If you want to add some sharpness, mix in a bit of cheddar. For a lower-fat option, try part-skim mozzarella. And yes, you can skip Parmesan if you want to keep it simple!
How Do I Layer Ingredients for Best Results?
Layering is important for ensuring all flavors blend well. Start with the uncooked pasta at the bottom so it absorbs the sauce as it cooks. Then, add your cooked meat, followed by half of the cheese. This helps keep the cheese melty and delicious right above the pasta!
- Combine all base ingredients in the crockpot and mix.
- Add cheese to create a barrier that keeps moisture in.
- Top with pepperoni last; it crisps up and adds flavor!
Mastering these layers leads to a wonderfully balanced dish! Don’t forget to check it occasionally to stir if needed, just to keep everything well mixed. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Crockpot Pizza Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 12 ounces ziti or rigatoni pasta (uncooked)
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 jar (24 ounces) pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1 cup water
Cheese and Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni (or more to preference)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crockpot Pizza Casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and will cook for 3 to 4 hours on LOW. It’s an effortless dinner option that fills your kitchen with mouth-watering pizza aromas!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat:
Start by browning the ground beef or Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Cook until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink. Be sure to drain any excess fat before moving on!
2. Combine Ingredients:
In your crockpot, mix together the uncooked pasta, the cooked meat, pizza sauce, water, garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so that everything is evenly mixed.
3. Layer on the Cheese and Toppings:
Next, sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the mixture you just combined. Add a layer of sliced pepperoni on top for that classic pizza flavor.
4. Slow Cook:
Cover the crockpot and let it cook on LOW for about 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is tender and has soaked up most of the sauce. It’s a great time to relax while it cooks!
5. Add Final Cheese and Serve:
About 15 minutes before it’s done, add the rest of the mozzarella cheese and more pepperoni on top. Close the lid to let the cheese melt into delicious gooeyness!
6. Plate and Garnish:
Once the cheese is bubbly and melted, carefully serve the casserole onto plates. If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top for a nice touch.
Enjoy your hearty and flavorful crockpot pizza casserole—perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just keep in mind that gluten-free pasta may require slightly different cooking times, so check for doneness before serving.
What Toppings Can I Add to Customize My Casserole?
The options are endless! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives. You could also mix in other meats, such as diced ham or bacon, or even switch up the cheese for a blend of your favorites. Just make sure any raw ingredients are pre-cooked before adding to the crockpot!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat until heated through. You might need to add a splash of water or sauce to keep it from drying out.
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the meat and load up on veggies instead. You can use a mix of zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers to give it a wonderful flavor. Also, try adding olives or artichokes for extra pizzazz!
