Crockpot Pizza Casserole Recipe

There's nothing better than the smell of pizza-inspired goodness wafting through your kitchen, especially when it's coming from your trusty crockpot. Crockpot Pizza Casserole combines the cheesy, saucy flavors of a classic pizza with the cozy comfort of a casserole, all made with minimal effort.

I discovered this recipe when looking for a hands-off dinner idea that would please my entire family. What started as a busy-day meal hack has now become a go-to favorite. Packed with layers of pasta, pepperoni, and melted cheese, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for pizza lovers of all ages.

Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special.

Why You'll Love This Crockpot Pizza Casserole

Get ready to fall head over heels for this cozy, cheesy dinner idea. Crockpot Pizza Casserole is everything you love about pizza, with a fun and unexpected twist.

First, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. With just 15 minutes of prep, you can set it and forget it, letting your crockpot do all the work while you tackle your to-do list.

Second, it’s a budget-friendly meal that feeds a crowd. Using pantry staples like pasta, jarred marinara, and shredded cheese means you can create a hearty dinner without breaking the bank.

Third, it’s a customizable recipe that lets you channel your inner pizza artist. Whether you love extra pepperoni, sautéed mushrooms, or a spicy sausage kick, you can easily tailor this dish to your preferences.

Lastly, cleanup is a breeze. Thanks to the one-pot cooking process, you won’t be stuck washing a mountain of dishes after dinner.

With so many perks, it’s no wonder this casserole has become a family favorite. Ready to get started? Let’s talk about the ingredients!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Crockpot Pizza Casserole lies in its simple, approachable ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one is important:

• Pasta: I recommend rotini or penne for this recipe. These shapes hold the sauce beautifully and create that hearty texture. Cook them slightly underdone (al dente) so they don’t turn mushy during slow cooking.
• Marinara Sauce: A good-quality jarred marinara is a timesaver here, but feel free to use homemade if you have it on hand. Look for a sauce with bold, tomato-forward flavor for the best results.
• Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: This adds a hearty, savory layer to your casserole. Brown it before adding it to the crockpot to lock in flavor and avoid extra grease.
• Pepperoni: You can’t have a pizza-inspired dish without pepperoni! I like to mix some into the layers and save a few slices for the top so they get crispy and golden during cooking.
• Shredded Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese: The mozzarella melts into gooey perfection, while Parmesan adds a nutty, salty bite. Together, they create that irresistible cheesy layer we all love.
• Vegetables (optional): Want to sneak in some extra nutrients? Try adding diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms. They complement the pizza flavors wonderfully.

You’ll also need a 6-quart crockpot for this recipe to ensure everything fits comfortably. Ready to build your pizza casserole masterpiece? Let’s move on to the cooking process.

How To Make This Crockpot Pizza Casserole

Making this casserole is as easy as layering the ingredients and letting your crockpot work its magic. Here’s how it’s done:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until it’s just al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Meat: In a skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
3. Layer the Ingredients: Spray your crockpot with non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Begin layering: spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom, followed by a layer of pasta, ground meat, a sprinkle of cheese, and pepperoni. Repeat until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese and pepperoni on top.
4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese is fully melted.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Scoop out hearty portions and garnish with fresh parsley or red pepper flakes for an extra pop of flavor.

This recipe is a lifesaver when you want something delicious without standing over the stove. With just 15 minutes of prep, you’re free to relax while dinner takes care of itself.

Storage Options

One of the best things about Crockpot Pizza Casserole is how well it keeps. Here’s how to store your leftovers:

• In the Fridge: Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• In the Freezer: This casserole is freezer-friendly! Let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm larger portions in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Add a little extra sauce if it seems dry.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of this recipe makes it a true kitchen MVP. Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add more veggies like diced zucchini, spinach, or olives for a veggie-packed twist.
• Gluten-Free: Swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. Just make sure to undercook it slightly before layering.
• Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a bit of heat.
• Extra Cheesy: If you’re a cheese lover, mix in some ricotta or cottage cheese between the layers for added creaminess.
• Taco-Style: Replace the marinara with taco sauce, and use seasoned ground beef, black beans, and cheddar cheese for a Tex-Mex-inspired casserole.

No matter how you customize it, Crockpot Pizza Casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. Get creative and make it your own!

Print