This Crockpot Pizza Casserole is a fun and easy dish that combines all your favorite pizza ingredients! Think pasta, sauce, cheese, and pepperoni, all cooked together for a hearty meal.
It’s perfect for busy days because it cooks slowly and gives you that delightful cheesy goodness with every bite. I love how you just toss everything in and let it do its thing—no fuss, just yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: This is the heart of the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. For a vegetarian version, you can substitute with crumbled tofu or a mix of veggies instead!
Penne Pasta: While penne is great, any tubular pasta like rigatoni or ziti can work. If you’re gluten-free, choose a gluten-free pasta that you enjoy. Just remember that cooking times may vary.
Cheese: Mozzarella is a must for that stretchy, melty texture. I often mix in some provolone for an extra kick. If you’re dairy-free, consider almond cheese or a similar substitute.
Pizza Sauce or Marinara Sauce: Store-bought is convenient, but homemade sauce adds extra flavor! You can also use tomato sauce with Italian spices if you’re out of pizza sauce.
What’s the Best Way to Layer Ingredients in a Crockpot?
Layering is essential to ensure even cooking and great texture. Start with uncooked pasta as the base since it needs the longest cooking time. Then, build the layers with the meat, sauce, and cheese. The cheese should always go on top to create a delicious bubbly crust.
- Start with uncooked penne, followed by meat and sauce mixtures.
- Add cheese halfway through for melty goodness, and top with remaining cheese and toppings to finish.
- This way, the flavors meld together beautifully.
Remember, cooking times can vary depending on your crockpot. Set the timer and check a bit early to avoid overcooked pasta.
Crockpot Pizza Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cups uncooked penne pasta
- 1 jar (24 oz) pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crockpot Pizza Casserole will take about 10 minutes of prep time. You’ll then let it cook for 3-4 hours on low or 1.5-2 hours on high, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy other activities while it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef or Italian sausage along with the diced onion. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion is soft, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat before moving on to the next step!
2. Prepare the Crockpot:
Spray the inside of your crockpot with a non-stick cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier!
3. Add the Pasta:
Now, pour the uncooked penne pasta into the crockpot, spreading it out evenly across the bottom.
4. Mix in the Sauce:
Pour the jar of pizza sauce and 2 cups of water over the pasta. Give it a good stir to combine everything together—this will help the pasta cook evenly.
5. Combine with Meat:
Add your cooked meat and onion mixture to the crockpot. Stir everything together until well mixed.
6. Season It Up:
Time to add some flavor! Stir in the garlic powder, dried Italian seasoning (or oregano), plus a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
7. Layer the Cheese:
Now it’s time for the cheese! Sprinkle half of your shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the mixture. This will give you that delicious melty goodness.
8. Add Toppings:
Next, add your sliced mushrooms (if using) and half of the pepperoni on top of the cheese layer.
9. Finish with More Cheese:
Finally, layer the remaining cheese and pepperoni on top. This makes for a beautifully cheesy casserole!
10. Cook:
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1.5-2 hours. The pasta should be tender when it’s done, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly on top.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
When it’s finished cooking, garnish with some freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy every cheesy bite of your delicious Crockpot Pizza Casserole!
This hearty meal combines all the flavors of your favorite pizza in a comforting casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Yes, you can definitely use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. If you’re gluten-free, make sure to select a gluten-free pasta that cooks similarly to penne. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the meat with diced vegetables (like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach) or use plant-based meat alternatives. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if necessary.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm gently in the microwave or oven.
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to add any of your favorite pizza toppings, such as olives, jalapeños, or different types of cheese. Just make sure not to overload it too much to ensure everything cooks evenly!
