Slow Cooker Pizza Pasta: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Busy Nights

Slow Cooker Pizza Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the best of two beloved favorites: pizza and pasta. Imagine the rich, savory flavors of your favorite pizza toppings melded with the comforting texture of al dente pasta, all simmered to perfection in a slow cooker. This recipe not only saves you time in the kitchen but also fills your home with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone eagerly anticipating mealtime.

Originating from the need for convenient yet satisfying meals, Slow Cooker Pizza Pasta has become a staple in many households. It’s a dish that resonates with families and busy professionals alike, offering a quick solution to weeknight dinners without sacrificing flavor. People love this dish for its versatility; you can customize it with your favorite toppings, whether it’s pepperoni, bell peppers, or olives. The combination of gooey cheese and hearty pasta creates a comforting experience that warms the soul. Join me as we dive into this easy and delicious recipe that is sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of penne pasta
• 1 pound of Italian sausage (or ground beef, if preferred)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color you like)
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup of sliced pepperoni
• 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Ingredients

1. **Cook the Sausage**: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set aside. 2. **Sauté the Vegetables**: In the same skillet, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the dish. 3. **Combine the Sauces**: In a large bowl, mix together the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Stir in the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. This will be the base of our sauce.

Assembling the Slow Cooker

4. **Layer the Ingredients**: In your slow cooker, start by adding half of the cooked sausage and half of the sautéed vegetables. Then, pour in half of the sauce mixture. 5. **Add the Pasta**: Next, add the uncooked penne pasta directly into the slow cooker. Don’t worry about cooking it beforehand; it will cook perfectly in the sauce. 6. **Repeat the Layers**: Add the remaining sausage and sautéed vegetables on top of the pasta. Pour the rest of the sauce mixture over everything, ensuring the pasta is well covered. 7. **Add Pepperoni**: Sprinkle the sliced pepperoni evenly over the top. This will give a nice pizza flavor to the dish.

Cooking Process

8. **Set the Slow Cooker**: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours. The pasta will absorb the flavors of the sauce and become tender. 9. **Check for Doneness**: About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, check the pasta for doneness. If it’s still too firm, give it a gentle stir and let it cook a little longer. 10. **Add the Cheese**: Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover the slow cooker again and let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving the Dish

11. **Garnish**: Once the cheese is melted, turn off the slow cooker. If you have fresh basil leaves, chop them roughly and sprinkle them over the top for a fresh touch. 12. **Serve**: Using a large spoon, scoop out portions of the pizza pasta into bowls. It’s great on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. 13. **Store Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious!), let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.

Tips and Variations

14. **Vegetarian Option**: For a vegetarian version, you can skip the sausage and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. You can also use a meat substitute if you prefer. 15. **Cheese Variations**: Feel free to mix up the cheeses! Cheddar, provolone, or even a sprinkle of feta can add a unique twist to the flavor profile. 16. **Spice it

Conclusion:

In summary, this Slow Cooker Pizza Pasta is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to combine the comforting flavors of pizza with the ease of a slow cooker meal. The rich, savory sauce, gooey cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta come together to create a dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider topping your Slow Cooker Pizza Pasta with fresh basil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. You can also customize it by adding your favorite pizza toppings—think pepperoni, bell peppers, or even olives—to make it your own. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the pasta for a gluten-free option or using a different type of cheese for a unique twist. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the delightful flavors for yourself. Once you’ve made it, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for this Slow Cooker Pizza Pasta together! Happy cooking! Print