If you love pizza and crave a hearty casserole, this Crock Pot Pizza Casserole combines the best of both worlds! Packed with layers of pasta, savory pizza toppings, and gooey cheese, it’s a simple, set-it-and-forget-it recipe perfect for busy weeknights or weekend dinners.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
- 🍝 1 pound rotini or penne pasta, cooked al dente
- 🍖 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 🧅 1/2 cup diced onion
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🍅 1 jar (24 oz) pizza or marinara sauce
- 🍅 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 🌿 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings:
- 🍕 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
- 🫑 1/2 cup diced green bell peppers
- 🧀 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 🧀 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 🌰 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Meat:
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant. Stir in the pizza sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Layer in the Crock Pot:
- Spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. Layer half of the cooked pasta in the bottom, followed by half of the meat sauce, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Add a layer of pepperoni and optional toppings like green bell peppers or black olives. Repeat the layers.
- Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once done, garnish with additional pepperoni or fresh herbs if desired. Scoop and serve warm for a comforting, cheesy meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 20g
- Carbs: 35g
- Protein: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Pizza Casserole
- Customize the Toppings: Add mushrooms, jalapeños, or even cooked bacon for a personalized pizza flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook it al dente before adding to the Crock Pot to avoid mushiness.
- Make It Meat-Free: Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or add more veggies for a vegetarian version.