This Crockpot Pizza Casserole is a fun twist on your favorite pizza! It’s loaded with pasta, marinara sauce, pepperoni, and plenty of gooey cheese, all cooked slowly for that cozy flavor.
Who needs takeout when you can make pizza in a slow cooker? I love throwing everything in and letting it bubble away while I kick back—way easier than making traditional pizza!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: These add a meaty flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey or chicken sausage works great too. You can also go vegetarian with diced bell peppers or mushrooms.
Marinara or Pizza Sauce: This is essential for the classic pizza taste. You can swap it with homemade sauce if you have it, or use Alfredo sauce for a creamy twist!
Penne Pasta: I love using penne because it holds the sauce well, but you can try rotini or farfalle instead. Keep it gluten-free by using rice or quinoa pasta.
Cheese: Mozzarella is a must for that stretchiness. Feel free to mix in cheddar or provolone for added flavor. Vegan cheese is a good alternative if you’re dairy-free.
How Do I Ensure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked in the Crockpot?
Cooking pasta in a slow cooker can be tricky! You want it tender, not mushy. Here are some tips to help:
- Stir the ingredients well before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Cover with the lid to retain moisture; checking frequently can make it dry out.
- If it seems too watery near the end, cook on high for the last 30 minutes without the lid for the liquid to reduce.
- Check for doneness around the 4-hour mark—different pasta can cook at varying rates.
How to Make Crockpot Pizza Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 jar (24 oz/680 g) marinara or pizza sauce
- 3 cups penne pasta (uncooked)
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Garnish (optional):
- Fresh basil or parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Crockpot Pizza Casserole will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 4 hours of cooking time on low heat. You can easily set it up and relax while it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat:
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage. Use a spatula to break up the meat as it cooks. Once it’s browned, drain off any excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot:
In your crockpot, pour in the marinara or pizza sauce and add the 2 1/2 cups of water. Toss in the uncooked penne pasta along with the cooked meat, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together well to ensure the pasta is coated with the sauce.
3. Cook the Casserole:
Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to low. Let it cook for about 4 hours, or until the pasta is soft and cooked through. Be sure to stir it gently every so often to prevent any sticking!
4. Add the Cheese and Pepperoni:
When you’re about 15 minutes away from serving, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and the sliced pepperoni evenly over the top of the casserole. Re-cover the crockpot and hold off on stirring so the cheese can melt nicely.
5. Finish and Serve:
After 10-15 minutes, the cheese should be beautifully melty. Just before serving, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top and add fresh basil or parsley if you’d like a pop of color. Dish it out hot and enjoy your comforting Crockpot Pizza Casserole!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Yes, you can absolutely use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta! Keep in mind that whole wheat pasta may take a little longer to cook, while gluten-free pasta might require a shorter cooking time, so check for doneness early around the 3-hour mark.
What Can I Use Instead of Ground Beef or Sausage?
If you prefer a lighter option or are looking for vegetarian alternatives, diced mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini work great. You can also use cooked lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or tempeh for a protein boost!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you like some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce before cooking. For a milder flavor, you can skip spicy toppings altogether or use sweet peppers instead of spicy sausage.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it seems dry. Enjoy as a quick lunch or dinner option!
