Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Pizza Casserole Recipe
When you’re looking for a hearty meal that’s easy to prepare, this Slow Cooker Pizza Casserole is a game changer.
I love how it combines all my favorite pizza flavors in one dish. The best part? I can throw everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while I focus on other things.
It’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, and everyone loves it! Plus, the leftovers are just as good, making it a great option for meal prep.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll keep coming back for more!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Pizza Casserole
When it comes to whipping up a delightful meal with minimal fuss, the ingredients for Slow Cooker Pizza Casserole are the stars of the show. Imagine combining all your pizza favorites in a single pot—what’s not to love?
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want to enjoy some hearty leftovers, this recipe has got you covered. Let’s explore what you’ll need to create this delicious dish.
- 4 (14 ounce) jars pizza sauce
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef, cooked and drained
- 1 lb sausage, cooked and drained
- 1 lb corkscrew macaroni, cooked and drained
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 (4 ounce) cans mushroom stems and pieces, drained
- 2 (3 ounce) packages sliced pepperoni
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Now, let’s talk about those ingredients. You can totally customize this casserole to your liking! Don’t love mushrooms? Leave them out.
Want to add some veggies? Go wild with spinach or even olives. And if you’re feeling a little adventurous, try switching up the type of cheese—maybe a bit of provolone for a smoky twist.
Just remember, the key is to balance those flavors so they harmonize in that warm, cheesy goodness. And let’s not forget about the sauces—pizza sauce is a classic choice, but you could experiment with different kinds if you’re feeling fancy.
The world is your oyster—or should I say, your pizza!
How to Make Slow Cooker Pizza Casserole
Making Slow Cooker Pizza Casserole is as easy as pie—err, pizza. First things first, grab your trusty slow cooker. You’ll want to combine 4 (14 ounce) jars of pizza sauce, 1 1/2 lbs of cooked and drained ground beef, and 1 lb of cooked and drained sausage right in that pot. If you’re like me, you might’ve a tendency to spill a bit of sauce here and there. Don’t fret—it adds character, right?
Next, toss in 1 lb of cooked and drained corkscrew macaroni. This is where the magic starts to happen; all those savory flavors are going to blend together beautifully. For the cheese lovers out there (and who isn’t?), add in 2 cups of shredded mozzarella and 2 cups of freshly grated parmesan cheese. Yes, please.
Now, let’s get a little chunky. You’ll want to add in 2 (4 ounce) cans of drained mushroom stems and pieces, along with 2 (3 ounce) packages of sliced pepperoni. If pepperoni is the life of the pizza party, then these mushrooms are the quiet but essential guests.
Don’t forget the veggies—throw in 1/2 cup of finely chopped onion, 1/2 cup of finely chopped green bell pepper, and 1 minced garlic clove. Can you smell it already? Cover that bad boy up and let it simmer. Set your slow cooker on LOW for 4 hours or crank it up to HIGH for 2 hours if you’re impatient like I sometimes am. Just imagine walking into the kitchen and getting hit by that heavenly aroma. It’s like a warm hug from your favorite pizza.
While it’s cooking, you can take a quick break or maybe even tackle that pile of laundry that’s been glaring at you. No judgment here.
Once the timer goes off, dig in and enjoy a slice of comfort food that feels like a cozy night in. You might even want to invite a friend or two over to share, but beware—this casserole has a way of disappearing fast.
Slow Cooker Pizza Casserole Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your Slow Cooker Pizza Casserole, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to explore.
You can swap ground beef for turkey or even use a plant-based meat for a vegetarian option. Feel free to change the pasta shape; penne or rotini work great too.
If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, skip them and add more veggies like zucchini or olives. Don’t forget about cheese—mix in cheddar or pepper jack for a kick!
Finally, play with spices; Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper can elevate the flavor profile. Enjoy experimenting!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Pizza Casserole
While enjoying your Slow Cooker Pizza Casserole, you might wonder what to pair it with for a complete meal.
I love serving it alongside a fresh green salad, dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole. Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks are also a hit, perfect for scooping up every last bite.
For a more filling option, I sometimes whip up some steamed veggies, like broccoli or green beans, to add color and nutrition.
Don’t forget a side of marinara sauce for dipping—it brings a fun touch that complements the flavors beautifully!
Additional Tips & Notes
Serving Slow Cooker Pizza Casserole can be enhanced with a few tips to elevate your meal experience.
First, try adding your favorite toppings like olives or jalapeños for an extra kick. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh basil or oregano on top before serving for that authentic pizza flavor.
If you want a crispy texture, consider broiling the casserole for a few minutes after it’s cooked.
Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated easily, making it a great dish for meal prep.
Finally, serve with a simple salad to balance out the richness. Enjoy your delicious creation!