There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a warm, cheesy casserole wafting through your home after a long day. Crockpot Pizza Casserole combines all the beloved flavors of pizza – tangy marinara, gooey mozzarella, and savory toppings – in a hearty, one-pot meal that's perfect for busy weeknights.
This recipe became a family favorite after a spontaneous experiment on a hectic day. With minimal prep and the help of my trusty slow cooker, it’s become my go-to for those “what’s for dinner?” moments. Let’s dive into why this dish will soon be a staple at your table!
Why You'll Love This Crockpot Pizza Casserole
Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite comfort food! This Crockpot Pizza Casserole is everything you love about pizza, reimagined into a cozy, hassle-free dish.
First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just 15 minutes of prep, your slow cooker does all the hard work while you go about your day. No babysitting or stirring is required – just layer the ingredients and let the magic happen.
It’s also wonderfully customizable. Whether you prefer classic pepperoni, hearty sausage, or veggie-packed toppings, this recipe can be tailored to fit your preferences. You can even make it vegetarian or gluten-free with a few simple swaps.
And don’t forget its family-friendly appeal! Kids and adults alike love the cheesy, pizza-inspired flavors. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies if you’re feeding picky eaters.
Lastly, it’s a crowd-pleaser. This casserole is perfect for potlucks, game-day gatherings, or feeding a hungry family. It’s hearty, filling, and makes enough to serve everyone.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Crockpot Pizza Casserole lies in its simple ingredients, which come together to create layers of bold, satisfying flavors.
- Pasta: I recommend using short pasta like rotini, penne, or ziti. Their shape holds onto the sauce and toppings, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Cook the pasta al dente before adding it to the crockpot to avoid overcooking.
- Marinara Sauce: Choose a high-quality store-bought marinara or make your own. The sauce is the base of the casserole and brings that signature pizza flavor. If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Cheese: A combination of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan creates a gooey, melty layer that’s irresistible. You can also mix in some provolone or cheddar for added depth.
- Meat Toppings: Ground Italian sausage and pepperoni are my go-to choices for this recipe. Cook the sausage beforehand to ensure it’s fully cooked and crumbly. Turkey or chicken sausage works just as well if you’re looking for a lighter option.
- Vegetables: Add diced green peppers, onions, or mushrooms for a veggie boost. These mix beautifully with the sauce and meats, adding texture and flavor.
- Special Equipment: You’ll need a 6-quart crockpot for this recipe to ensure there’s enough space to layer the ingredients evenly.
How To Make This Crockpot Pizza Casserole

Making Crockpot Pizza Casserole is as simple as layering your favorite pizza ingredients in your slow cooker and letting it work its magic.
Start by cooking the pasta until just al dente, as it will continue cooking in the crockpot. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, prepare the meat. Brown the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
In a 6-quart crockpot, begin assembling the casserole. Start with a layer of marinara sauce to prevent sticking. Add a layer of cooked pasta, followed by some of the sausage, pepperoni, vegetables, and shredded cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with a generous layer of cheese on top.
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1.5-2 hours, until the cheese is bubbly and everything is heated through.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Storage Options
Leftovers? No problem! Crockpot Pizza Casserole stores beautifully and is just as delicious the next day.
- Refrigerator: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick meal.
- Freezer: This casserole freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating Tips: To maintain the cheesy, saucy texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. Add a sprinkle of fresh cheese on top for extra pizzazz.
Variations and Substitutions
The versatility of Crockpot Pizza Casserole means you can make it your own with a few tweaks.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and load up on veggies like spinach, zucchini, or artichokes. Use plant-based sausage or pepperoni for added flavor.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace the pasta with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles for a lighter, low-carb version of this dish.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or swap mild sausage for spicy Italian sausage for a bit of heat.
- Cheese Lovers’ Dream: Experiment with different cheeses like smoked gouda, asiago, or ricotta for a unique flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your other ingredients, like marinara sauce, are certified gluten-free.
This Crockpot Pizza Casserole is more than just a recipe – it’s an invitation to get creative and make it your own. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home!
PrintCrockpot Pizza Casserole Recipe
Enjoy the ultimate comfort food with this Crockpot Pizza Casserole recipe! Packed with cheesy goodness, pasta, pepperoni, and your favorite pizza toppings, it's an easy-to-make slow cooker meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cups uncooked rotini pasta
- 2 cups pizza sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, cook ground beef with diced onion and bell pepper until fully browned. Drain excess grease.
- In the crockpot, combine cooked pasta, ground beef mixture, pizza sauce, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and half the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Mix well.
- Layer the mixture with pepperoni slices and top with the remaining cheese.
- Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until heated through and cheese is melted.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- You can customize the toppings with mushrooms, olives, or sausage to suit your preferences.
- For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes.
- This recipe freezes well—store leftovers in an airtight container.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 950mg
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