Introduction
If you love pizza night but also crave a hearty, comforting pasta dish, then this Crock Pot Pizza Casserole is for you! Packed with bold flavors, layers of cheesy goodness, and the ease of a slow cooker, this dish is a dream come true for busy families and pizza lovers alike. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or a game day feast, this easy pizza casserole will satisfy everyone’s cravings. Let’s dive into the best slow cooker pizza casserole recipe you’ll ever try!
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Pizza Casserole
- Easy to Make: No need to fuss over multiple dishes—everything cooks right in the slow cooker.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage, ground beef, and pepperoni brings out bold, savory flavors.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids will love the pizza-inspired flavors in a pasta dish!
- Make-Ahead Meal: You can prepare everything in advance and let the slow cooker do the work.
- Feeds a Crowd: This recipe makes 8 generous servings, perfect for meal prep or gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious pizza casserole, gather these simple ingredients:
- 1 pound rigatoni pasta
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
- 1 small sweet onion, diced
- 1 (3.5-ounce) package pepperoni slices
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 (14-ounce) jars pizza sauce
- 16-ounce bag shredded mozzarella cheese
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the rigatoni pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. The pasta will continue to cook in the slow cooker, so slightly undercooking it is best to prevent mushiness.
2. Brown the Meats
In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion until translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking them up as they cook. Cook until fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
3. Sauté the Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the meat mixture and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Stir well to distribute the flavors.
4. Combine with Sauce
Pour in the pizza sauce and stir, ensuring the meat mixture is evenly coated. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to absorb the flavors.
5. Layer the Casserole
In a 6-quart slow cooker, layer as follows:
- Half of the cooked rigatoni
- Half of the meat sauce mixture
- Half of the pepperoni slices
- Half of the shredded mozzarella cheese
Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
6. Cook in the Crock Pot
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Pizza Casserole
- Use Al Dente Pasta: Since the pasta will continue cooking in the slow cooker, avoid overcooking it beforehand.
- Customize Your Toppings: Add mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Make It Spicy: Use spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Cheese Variations: Try a mix of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan for a richer cheese pull.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this pizza casserole ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble the layers ahead of time, store the slow cooker insert in the fridge, and cook it when ready.
2. Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
3. What other meats can I use? You can swap the ground beef and sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
4. Can I use a different pasta shape? Yes! Penne, ziti, or rotini work well.
5. Do I need to grease the slow cooker? It’s recommended to lightly spray the slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Conclusion
This Crock Pot Pizza Casserole is the perfect comfort food that combines all the flavors of a classic pizza with the heartiness of pasta. It’s easy to make, customizable, and a family favorite that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, slow-cooked meal that brings the best of pizza and pasta together in one dish!