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

  • Author: Dottie
  • Total Time: 255 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings 1x

Description

This Slow Cooker Pizza Pasta is a delicious one-pot meal that combines pasta, Italian sausage, and classic pizza toppings for a comforting dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy the whole family!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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)

Instructions

  1. 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. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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 uncooked penne pasta directly into the slow cooker.
  6. Add the remaining sausage and sautéed vegetables on top of the pasta. Pour the rest of the sauce mixture over everything.
  7. Sprinkle the sliced pepperoni evenly over the top.
  8. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours.
  9. 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. 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.
  11. 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.
  12. Using a large spoon, scoop out portions of the pizza pasta into bowls.
  13. 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.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian option, skip the sausage and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
  • Feel free to mix up the cheeses! Cheddar, provolone, or even a sprinkle of feta can add a unique twist to the flavor profile.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 240 minutes

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Find it online: https://butdelicious.com/slow-cooker-pizza-pasta/