Introduction

Crockpot Pizza Pasta is a comforting slow cooker meal that brings together all your favorite pizza flavors in one cheesy, saucy dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe requires minimal effort but delivers maximum taste and satisfaction.

A close-up of a dish in a white bowl, showing three main layers: at the bottom, cooked elbow pasta in a light orange sauce; in the middle, browned sausage pieces mixed throughout; on top, a layer of melted white cheese with visible herbs sprinkled over and round slices of red pepperoni evenly placed. The cheese looks slightly browned and gooey, blending with the pasta and meat underneath. The white marbled texture serves as the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef (93% lean), browned and drained
12 ounces uncooked rotini pasta
24 ounces marinara sauce
1 cup low-sodium beef broth
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, diced (optional)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
20 slices turkey pepperoni
Optional: ½ cup sliced black olives or mushrooms

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain excess fat and stir in garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
Step 2: In a 6-quart crockpot, combine the cooked beef, marinara sauce, beef broth, chopped onion, diced bell pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to mix.
Step 3: Add the uncooked rotini pasta to the crockpot and gently stir to coat it evenly with the sauce mixture. Spread half of the turkey pepperoni slices on top.
Step 4: Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours. Around the 2.5-hour mark, stir the pasta and check for doneness. If pasta isn’t tender yet, add a splash of broth and continue cooking as needed.
Step 5: When pasta is fully cooked, sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Place the remaining turkey pepperoni slices on the cheese. Cover and cook for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.
Step 6: Let the pasta sit for 10 minutes before serving to thicken slightly. Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh basil or parsley.

Tips & Variations

Use rotini, penne, or rigatoni pasta as they hold up best during slow cooking.
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Add fresh or frozen spinach or kale for extra greens.
Try different cheeses like provolone or Monterey Jack for varied flavor.
Include your favorite pizza toppings such as sliced olives, mushrooms, or diced jalapeños.
Stir the pasta halfway through cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Use turkey pepperoni to keep the dish lighter without losing flavor.

Storage

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring halfway through. If the sauce thickens during storage, add a splash of broth or water before reheating. For longer storage, freeze the pasta in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a baked pasta dish in a white bowl, showing three main layers: at the bottom, short pasta tubes coated in a light orange sauce with a glossy texture; in the middle, browned ground meat evenly mixed through the pasta, adding a rich brown and crispy texture; on top, several slices of dark red pepperoni evenly placed, covered with melted white cheese that is slightly browned in spots. Small green herb flakes are sprinkled over the entire dish, enhancing the texture and color contrast. The white marbled surface is softly visible around the bowl edges. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Crockpot Pizza Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble all ingredients except the pasta in the crockpot insert the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Add the pasta and cook the next day as directed.

What toppings work best in Pizza Crockpot Recipes?

Turkey pepperoni, sliced black olives, mushrooms, bell peppers, and shredded mozzarella cheese are popular toppings. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add a bright finish.