Looking for a comforting dish that captures the flavors of your favorite pizza? This Crockpot Pizza Casserole is here to save the day! It combines all the delicious elements of pizza into a warm and satisfying casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Just toss everything into your slow cooker and let it do the magic.
Imagine sinking your fork into layers of savory ground meat, gooey cheese, and a medley of colorful vegetables, all smothered in rich marinara sauce. The best part? You can easily customize this dish to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you like pepperoni, sausage, or a veggie-packed version, this recipe has you covered.
This Crockpot Pizza Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings everyone together around the table. It’s the ultimate comfort food that satisfies your pizza cravings without the hassle of making dough and baking.
Delicious and Easy Crockpot Pizza Casserole
This hearty casserole is a perfect blend of ground beef, pasta, marinara sauce, and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. It’s rich, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, making it an instant favorite for both kids and adults.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (like rotini or penne)
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni (optional)
- Chopped fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until browned. Drain excess fat and transfer to the crockpot.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in chopped onion and bell pepper to the crockpot with the cooked meat.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the sauce.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top, followed by the sliced pepperoni if using.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the pasta is tender.
- Finish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top and cover for a few minutes until melted. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
