Crock Pot Pizza Casserole Recipe

Ah, the beauty of the Crock Pot Pizza Casserole! This delightful dish offers the comforting flavors of pizza without the fuss of traditional pizza-making. When you come home after a long day, the last thing you want to do is stand over the stove. This casserole allows you to set it and forget it, letting the slow cooker do all the work. Just imagine walking into the warm, inviting aroma of melted cheese and savory sausage—it’s an experience that can only bring a smile to your face.

Moreover, this recipe is quite adaptable! You can personalize it with your favorite pizza toppings—think bell peppers, mushrooms, or even pepperoni. This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for families with varied tastes. Everyone can enjoy a hearty meal without the need for endless ingredient shopping or complicated cooking steps. With just a little prep, you’re well on your way to a satisfying dinner.

Finally, let’s talk about convenience! This pizza casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. You can prepare it in advance, pop it in the slow cooker, and go about your day. When the time comes to eat, all you need to do is serve it up. It’s hearty, filling, and best of all, it brings the joy of pizza right to your table.

How to Make Crock Pot Pizza Casserole

Ingredients:

16 ounces Rotini pasta
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 pound ground Italian sausage
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup onions (about 1 small onion)
3 cups pizza sauce or 2 (14 ounce) jars
1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, divided
1 1/2 cups Colby jack cheese, divided
1 cup Parmesan cheese, divided

Directions:

Begin by cooking the rotini pasta until it is just under al dente, following the package instructions. This means we want it to hold its shape while cooking more in the slow cooker.
In a medium pan over medium heat, drizzle in the olive oil, then add the ground Italian sausage. Cook this for about 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it browns. Make sure to drain any excess grease.
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, browned sausage, salt, black pepper, onions, pizza sauce, cream of mushroom soup, and half of each cheese. Give it a good stir!
Next, grease the insert of your slow cooker. Pour the mixed ingredients into the slow cooker, spreading it out evenly.
Now it’s time to top it off! Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella, Colby jack, and Parmesan cheeses over the top.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or on low for 3 to 4 hours, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
If you like, sprinkle some chopped fresh basil on top before serving for an extra pop of freshness and flavor.

How to Serve Crock Pot Pizza Casserole

Serving this delightful casserole is incredibly simple! You can scoop generous portions onto plates for each guest or family member. It pairs excellently with a light salad or some crusty bread, making for a well-rounded meal. The gooey cheese and meat create a cozy, comforting vibe—perfect for casual dinners or fun gatherings.

This casserole is great for leftovers, too! Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just reheat in the microwave or oven, and you’ll have a quick meal ready to go for busy days!

And don’t forget, a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can elevate this dish even further. Everything just looks and tastes better with a little garnish—your guests will be impressed!

Additional Tips:

Feel free to add extra vegetables for added nutrition; bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach work wonderfully.
If you want a bit of a kick, consider adding some spicy sausage or hot sauce.
Make sure to keep an eye on the cooking time, especially if you are using a different model of slow cooker, as cooking times can vary.

Nutrition Facts:

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

Calories: 550
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 3g

FAQ Section

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave or oven.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Certainly! You can replace the sausage with a meat substitute or load up on vegetables for a hearty vegetarian version.

Enjoy your time in the kitchen, and bon appétit!

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