Crockpot Pizza Casserole Recipe Made with Just a Few Ingredients

A Simple, Flavorful, and Comforting Dish

If you love the flavors of pizza but want something easy and hands-off to prepare, this Crockpot Pizza Casserole is the perfect recipe. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. This recipe is great for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prepping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal Ingredients – Requires only a handful of pantry staples.
• Effortless Cooking – Let the slow cooker do the work for you.
• Customizable – Easily adapt the recipe with your favorite pizza toppings.
• Kid-Friendly – A guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Reheats well for leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage)
• 1 (16-ounce) package of rotini pasta
• 1 (24-ounce) jar of pizza sauce
• 1 (14-ounce) can of diced tomatoes, drained
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper (optional)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

Boil the rotini pasta in a large pot of salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Meat

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or Italian sausage) until browned. Drain any excess grease.

3. Combine Ingredients

In the slow cooker, mix together the cooked meat, pizza sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

4. Layer the Casserole

• Add half of the cooked pasta to the slow cooker.
• Layer half of the meat sauce mixture over the pasta.
• Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the sauce.
• Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, meat sauce, and cheese.
• Top with pepperoni slices, black olives, and bell peppers if using.

5. Slow Cook

Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours or until everything is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Scoop out portions and serve warm. Enjoy with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.

Variations and Substitutions

• Meat Alternatives – Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles.
• Cheese Options – Experiment with provolone, parmesan, or Monterey Jack cheese.
• Vegetable Additions – Try adding mushrooms, onions, or spinach for extra flavor.
• Low-Carb Version – Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower florets instead of pasta.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3–4 hours
• Total Time: About 4 hours

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in a 350°F oven until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

To avoid mushy pasta, cook it just until al dente before adding it to the slow cooker. You can also slightly undercook it if you plan to have leftovers.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble everything in the slow cooker insert and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to cook, simply place the insert in the slow cooker and cook as directed.

Can I use uncooked pasta?

It’s best to use pre-cooked pasta to ensure the right texture. However, you can try using uncooked pasta with extra liquid (such as additional diced tomatoes or broth), but results may vary.

What other toppings can I add?

You can include mushrooms, onions, sausage, bacon, banana peppers, or any of your favorite pizza toppings.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or bowtie will work well in this dish.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Omit the meat and add more vegetables or use plant-based meat substitutes.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

No, but you can modify it by replacing the pasta with cauliflower, zucchini, or spaghetti squash.

Can I double the recipe?

If your slow cooker is large enough, you can double the ingredients and cook for the same amount of time.

What side dishes go well with this casserole?

A green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make excellent sides.

Can I make this in the oven instead?

Yes! Layer the ingredients in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake at 375°F for about 25–30 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Pizza Casserole is an easy, cheesy, and satisfying meal that brings the flavors of pizza into a comforting casserole. With simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can have a delicious dinner ready with minimal effort. Try different toppings and variations to make it your own, and enjoy a meal that’s perfect for any occasion!

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