With this Crock-Pot Cheesy Pizza Casserole, you can enjoy the flavors of pizza while also saving time in the kitchen. This recipe is ideal for those who enjoy the gooey cheese and savory toppings of pizza but prefer the set-it-and-forget-it convenience of a slow cooker. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you just want a hearty meal to enjoy after a long day. Follow this simple recipe to make a cheesy, hearty casserole that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) pizza sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cups cooked rotini pasta
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
- Extra cheese for topping (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef Mixture:
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the chopped green bell pepper to the skillet and sauté for a few minutes until slightly softened.
- Stir in the pizza sauce, drained diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Layer the Casserole:
- In your Crock-Pot, spread half of the cooked rotini pasta as the first layer.
- Pour half of the beef and sauce mixture over the pasta. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over this layer.
- Add the second layer of pasta, the remaining beef mixture, and another layer of mozzarella cheese. Top with sliced pepperoni and black olives if using.
- Cook the Casserole:
- Cover the Crock-Pot and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the cheese to melt and become bubbly.
- Finish and Serve:
- If desired, add an extra layer of cheese on top about 30 minutes before the cooking time is up. Allow the cheese to melt and slightly brown.
- Once done, let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes after turning off the Crock-Pot. This helps the layers set a bit, making it easier to serve.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional herbs if desired, for a perfect cozy meal.
This Crock-Pot Cheesy Pizza Casserole is more than just simple and convenient; it’s a flavorful treat that captures the essence of pizza in a hearty casserole form. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with different toppings based on your preferences, similar to making your favorite pizza. Whether you’re feeding a large crowd or simply looking for a delicious family meal, this casserole is sure to please. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of pizza night any night of the week with little effort!