Crockpot Pizza Casserole

When the aroma of simmering ground beef and rich pizza sauce fills the kitchen, it’s a reminder that comfort food is on the way. This Crockpot Pizza Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that comes together effortlessly, requiring just a few hours in the slow cooker. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—dump the ingredients, set the cooker, and let it do the work for you.

This dish is perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a satisfying meal with minimal effort. It’s great for weeknight dinners or meal prep for the week ahead. Leftovers can easily be stored and reheated, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Enjoy a hearty meal that combines classic pizza flavors with comforting pasta.
• The slow cooking makes the flavors meld beautifully while the pasta becomes perfectly tender.
• It’s a one-pot meal, minimizing cleanup after a delicious dinner.
• Kids and adults alike will love this cheesy and savory dish loaded with pepperoni.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to create this mouthwatering dish:

For the Meat and Veggies

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped

For the Casserole Base

• 1 (14 oz) jar pizza sauce
• 2 cups uncooked pasta (such as rotini or penne)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup pepperoni slices

Note: Use turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Ground beef can be replaced with ground turkey.
• Any pasta shape works; just adjust cooking times.
• Use your favorite pizza toppings for variety.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious casserole.

Brown the meat

In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and bell pepper until the meat is cooked through. Drain excess fat.

Combine the ingredients

In a slow cooker, combine the cooked beef mixture, pizza sauce, uncooked pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Add water

Add 2 cups of water to the mixture and stir well.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the pasta is tender.

Stir in toppings

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and pepperoni slices.

Serve

Serve warm and enjoy your easy, delicious pizza casserole!

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Yes, it freezes well for later enjoyment.
Reheat: Microwave for 3-5 minutes or until hot.

Tips for Best Results

• For an extra cheesy casserole, reserve some mozzarella to sprinkle on top just before serving.
• Adjust the amount of pizza sauce based on your preference for sauciness.
• Include your favorite vegetables for added nutrition and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Serve with garlic bread for a hearty dinner.
• Excellent for potlucks or casual gatherings.