Crock-Pot Pizza Pasta Casserole
This casserole recipe is full of pizza flavors. It has a short cooking time, best prepared in the late afternoon for an evening meal.
This casserole recipe is full of pizza flavors. It has a short cooking time, best prepared in the late afternoon for an evening meal.
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried italian seasoning
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 8 ounces sliced pepperoni
- 1 small onion (peeled and diced)
- 1 pound italian sasuage (bulk (not in casings))
- 24 ounces jarred pizza sauce (or your favorite marinara sau
- 1 pound short pasta (i used cavatappi but rotini macaroni and other pastas work too)
- 8 ounces sliced canadian bacon
- 6 ounces canned sliced black olives (drained)
- Carbohydrate 0.148482884359005 g
- Cholesterol 29.766999255 mg
- Fat 12.5045368618712 g
- Fiber 0.101952562017803 g
- Protein 6.47458594156663 g
- Saturated Fat 4.21389913265765 g
- Serving Size 1 1 people (278g)
- Sodium 469.291533509235 mg
- Sugar 0.0465303223412017 g
- Trans Fat 2.42487059918509 g
- Calories 141 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large skillet, brown and crumble bulk Italian sausage, onion, and minced garlic until the sausage is no longer pink and the onion is translucent. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- Rinse 1 pound of short pasta (like cavatappi or rotini) in a colander with very hot tap water for 8-10 minutes to remove starch and soften slightly.
- In a large bowl, mix the rinsed pasta, sausage mixture, pizza sauce, fennel seeds, and Italian seasoning until the pasta is coated.
- Layer half of the pasta mixture in a 3.5-quart (or larger) slow cooker.
- Sprinkle with sliced pepperoni, Canadian bacon, and black olives.
- Add a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat layers of pasta mixture, toppings, and cheese, ending with cheese on top.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 2-3 hours.
- Serve with a side salad and crusty Italian bread.
A Busy Mom's Easy Weeknight Dinner: Crock-Pot Pizza Pasta Casserole
As a working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Weeknights are a whirlwind of homework help, soccer practice, and the ever-present struggle to get a healthy and delicious meal on the table before bedtime. That's why I'm always on the lookout for recipes that are quick, easy, and—most importantly—kid-approved. This Crock-Pot Pizza Pasta Casserole is my new go-to for those hectic evenings.
Forget spending hours slaving over a hot stove. This recipe practically makes itself! The slow cooker does all the work, allowing me to focus on other things while a delicious, comforting meal simmers away. The kids adore it; it's basically a warm, hug-in-a-bowl filled with all their favorite pizza flavors. The best part? Clean-up is a breeze! One pot, minimal dishes, and maximum flavor. It’s the perfect example of a recipe that’s both satisfying and stress-free.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. I often adjust it based on what I have on hand. Sometimes I add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms. Other times, I swap out the Canadian bacon for leftover cooked chicken or ham. The possibilities are endless! And don't be afraid to experiment with different cheeses—provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses would be delicious. The key is to have fun with it and create a dish that your family will love.
I often find myself prepping the ingredients earlier in the day or even the night before. This means that when I get home from work, all I need to do is transfer everything to the slow cooker, turn it on, and relax. The aroma of simmering sausage, pasta, and cheese fills the house, creating a wonderfully inviting atmosphere. It's the perfect way to end a long day and gather the family around the table for a shared meal. That, to me, is priceless.
Beyond the Recipe: This recipe isn't just about the food; it's about the experience. It’s about creating a simple yet delicious meal that brings joy and comfort to my family. It’s a symbol of my ability to balance work, family, and everything in between. The slow cooker, in a way, represents that balance—it works quietly and steadily in the background, allowing me to focus on the things that truly matter.
So, the next time you find yourself short on time and inspiration, remember this Crock-Pot Pizza Pasta Casserole. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a testament to the power of simple, delicious food and the joy of family time.
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture.
- Use different types of pasta, such as penne, rigatoni, or even shells.
- Add other vegetables, such as diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions.
- Use different types of cheese, such as provolone, parmesan, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and add extra vegetables and vegetarian cheese.
- To make it ahead, prepare the ingredients and assemble the casserole the night before. Refrigerate overnight and cook on low for 3-4 hours the next day.
This Crock-Pot Pizza Pasta Casserole is a versatile and delicious recipe that can be adapted to fit your family's preferences and dietary needs. It’s a surefire way to satisfy everyone at the dinner table, even on the busiest of weeknights. Enjoy!
