Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Pizza Pasta Casserole is a delicious and mouth-watering meal that combines the flavors of your favorite pizza with the comfort of pasta. This dish is perfect for busy families and anyone who loves pizza. With just five ingredients, it’s easy to prepare and is sure to please both adults and kids alike.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only simple and quick to make but also incredibly tasty. Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to blend beautifully while you focus on other things. Each bite is a delightful mix of cheesy goodness, savory sausage, and yummy pepperoni. Plus, with minimal prep and ingredients, you’ll spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.
How to Make Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Pizza Pasta Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb dry rotini
- 1 lb Italian sausage, browned
- 2 jars (14 oz each) pizza sauce
- 1 package (6 oz) sliced pepperoni
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions
- Begin by browning the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Break it into crumbles as it cooks. Once done, drain off any excess grease.
- If desired, lightly grease the slow cooker crock.
- Add the dry rotini, browned sausage, both jars of pizza sauce, half of the pepperoni, and 2 cups of mozzarella to the slow cooker. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly.
- Cover and cook on low for 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 hours. Stir once or twice if your slow cooker runs hot, until the pasta is tender.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and the rest of the pepperoni over the top. Cover again and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and pepperoni is warmed through.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This will help it settle slightly and make it easier to scoop out.
How to Serve Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Pizza Pasta Casserole
Serve this tasty casserole hot right out of the slow cooker. You can garnish it with more pepperoni or a sprinkle of Italian herbs for an extra burst of flavor. It pairs well with garlic bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Pizza Pasta Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Transfer it into an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months. Just reheat in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Pizza Pasta Casserole
- Use whole wheat rotini for a healthier option.
- If you want more veggies, add some bell peppers or mushrooms to the mix.
- For extra flavor, try using flavored sausage or spicy pepperoni.
Variation
You can easily customize this casserole by adding your favorite pizza toppings such as black olives, green peppers, or onions. You can also substitute the Italian sausage with ground beef or turkey for a different taste.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use different pasta shapes, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
2. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This casserole stores well, making it a great option for meal prep.
3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Just omit the sausage and use mushrooms or extra veggies instead. You can also choose a veggie pizza sauce.
Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Pizza Pasta Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Brown the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
- If desired, lightly grease the slow cooker crock.
- Add the dry rotini, browned sausage, both jars of pizza sauce, half of the pepperoni, and 2 cups of mozzarella to the slow cooker. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly.
- Cover and cook on low for 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 hours, stirring once or twice if your slow cooker runs hot, until the pasta is tender.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and the rest of the pepperoni over the top. Cover again and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the pepperoni is warmed through.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
