Crock Pot Pizza Casserole

Crock Pot Pizza Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining the flavors of classic pizza with a rich, cheesy pasta bake. It’s an easy, hands-off meal perfect for busy weeknights, game nights, or casual gatherings. With minimal prep and the slow cooker doing most of the work, you’ll have a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying dish ready to serve!

Essential 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), diced
• 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

Preparation Steps

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the rotini pasta until just under al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Meat: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it into crumbles until browned. Drain excess grease.
3. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, browned sausage, salt, black pepper, diced onions, pizza sauce, cream of mushroom soup, and half of each cheese. Stir well to distribute everything evenly.
4. Layer in the Slow Cooker: Grease the insert of your slow cooker and pour the pasta mixture inside, spreading it evenly.
5. Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella, Colby jack, and Parmesan cheeses over the top.
6. Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on high for 1 1/2 to 2 hours or low for 3 to 4 hours, until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish & Serve: For extra flavor, sprinkle fresh chopped basil or red pepper flakes on top before serving.

Health Benefits

• High in Protein: Thanks to the sausage and cheese, this casserole provides a satisfying protein boost.
• Rich in Calcium: The mix of cheeses adds a good dose of calcium for strong bones and teeth.
• Customizable with Vegetables: Easily add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to increase fiber and nutrient content.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance out the richness.
• Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes or extra Parmesan for an extra kick.
• Pair with a light Italian white wine or sparkling lemonade for a refreshing contrast.

Creative Variations

• Meat Lovers: Add diced pepperoni, cooked bacon, or ham for an even heartier version.
• Veggie Delight: Mix in mushrooms, black olives, or roasted bell peppers for a vegetarian-friendly twist.
• Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage and drizzle with sriracha or buffalo sauce before serving.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
• Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Pro Tips

• Don’t overcook the pasta before adding it to the slow cooker, as it will continue softening while cooking.
• Grease your slow cooker to prevent sticking and make cleaning easier.
• Use fresh herbs like basil or oregano to enhance the flavors just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes! Assemble everything in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Q: What can I substitute for Italian sausage? A: Try ground beef, ground turkey, or even plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian option.

Q: Can I use different pasta shapes? A: Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or shells work well in place of rotini.

Enjoy your Crock Pot Pizza Casserole—a cheesy, hearty dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

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