There’s nothing quite like coming home to a warm, comforting meal after a busy day, and this crockpot pizza pasta is just that. It’s an easy recipe that combines all the flavors of pizza in one creamy, cheesy pasta dish you can set and forget.
If you love the heartiness of pasta and the classic taste of pizza, you’ll appreciate how simple and delicious this crockpot pizza pasta is. It’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners when you want something filling without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hands-off slow cooker preparation, perfect for busy days
- Delicious blend of pizza flavors in a creamy pasta format
- Ready in under 4 hours for quick weeknight meals
- Family-friendly and sure to please kids and adults alike
- Customizable with your favorite pizza toppings
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to whip up your crockpot pizza pasta. It’s a straightforward list that keeps prep easy.
- 12 ounces uncooked penne pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours on low
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
How to Make Crockpot Pizza Pasta | Easy Cozy Weeknight Dinner Idea
- Start by browning the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, then drain excess fat.
- In the crockpot, combine the marinara sauce, water or broth, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Add the browned sausage, diced bell pepper, onion, and sliced olives into the crockpot and stir well.
- Pour in the uncooked penne pasta, pushing it down so it’s mostly submerged, then cover and cook on low for 3 hours.
- About 10 minutes before serving, stir in the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Check the pasta for tenderness; if it needs more time, cook an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and sprinkle extra mozzarella on top for a melty finish.
- Spoon into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot for a cozy meal.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness in the dish.
- Don’t skip browning the sausage for extra flavor depth.
- Add veggies of your choice like mushrooms or zucchini for variety.
- Stir gently before adding cheese to prevent pasta from breaking.
- Keep an eye on the pasta towards the end to avoid overcooking.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld even more after sitting overnight.
For freezing, place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute penne with rigatoni, rotini, or any other short pasta shape that holds sauce well. Avoid delicate pasta types that may overcook easily in the crockpot.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or add extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian version.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can prep the ingredients the night before and refrigerate them in the crockpot insert. Just add the pasta and cheese before you start cooking the next day.
What should I do if my pasta is not fully cooked after 3 hours?
Simply continue cooking on low, checking every 10-15 minutes until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking or drying out.
