There's nothing better than coming home to the savory, comforting aroma of Crockpot Pizza Casserole simmering away. This family-friendly dish combines the rich flavors of your favorite pizza with the ease of a slow-cooked casserole. Imagine gooey cheese, hearty pasta, and savory sausage all melded together in one satisfying dish.
I first tried this recipe on a chilly Sunday when I wanted something warm and easy that everyone would love. Since then, it's become a staple for potlucks and weeknight dinners alike. Let’s dive into what makes this dish a must-try for your recipe collection.
Why You'll Love This Crockpot Pizza Casserole
Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite slow cooker recipe. Crockpot Pizza Casserole is as delicious as it is simple, and it’s perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a low-effort meal with big flavor.
First off, this dish is a time-saver. With minimal prep and a trusty slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, freeing up your time for other activities. It’s the perfect option for those hectic days when cooking feels like a chore.
It’s incredibly kid-friendly. If your little ones love pizza, they’ll adore this casserole. The flavors are classic and familiar, making it a hit even with picky eaters.
This recipe is also wonderfully customizable. From swapping proteins to sneaking in extra veggies, you can tailor it to suit your family’s preferences. It’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients in the fridge.
Lastly, the combination of textures and flavors is irresistible. Tender pasta, melty cheese, and savory pizza sauce make every bite a comforting delight. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a regular on your meal rotation.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of Crockpot Pizza Casserole lies in its simple, hearty ingredients. Each component is carefully chosen to bring the flavors of pizza to your slow cooker.
Pasta forms the base of this dish. I recommend rotini or penne, as their shapes hold the sauce and cheese beautifully. Be sure to cook the pasta to al dente before adding it to the slow cooker to avoid overcooking.
Italian sausage adds a savory depth of flavor. You can use mild or hot sausage depending on your spice preference. Ground beef or turkey are great substitutes if you prefer a lighter option.
Pizza sauce is the heart of this recipe. Choose a brand you love, or make your own for a more personal touch. For extra richness, you can mix in a small can of tomato paste.
Pepperoni slices bring the classic pizza vibe. Layer them on top or mix them into the casserole for bursts of flavor throughout.
Shredded mozzarella cheese ties it all together. The gooier, the better! For added depth, you can sprinkle in some Parmesan or a blend of Italian cheeses.
You’ll also need basic seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian herbs to enhance the dish's overall flavor. No special equipment is required—just your trusty crockpot!
How To Make This Crockpot Pizza Casserole

Creating this Crockpot Pizza Casserole is as easy as it gets. Let me guide you through the steps for a stress-free dinner that delivers big on flavor.
Start by cooking your pasta until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside. While the pasta cooks, brown the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Break it into crumbles as it cooks, then drain any excess grease.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, browned sausage, and pizza sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of Italian herbs.
Layer the mixture into your crockpot, alternating with shredded mozzarella cheese and pepperoni slices. Start with a layer of pasta mixture, followed by a handful of cheese and a few pepperoni slices. Repeat until all ingredients are used, ending with a generous layer of cheese and pepperoni on top.
Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until heated through and the cheese is melty and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell like a pizzeria as it cooks!
When ready to serve, scoop the casserole into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage Options
Crockpot Pizza Casserole stores beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.
For refrigeration, transfer the casserole to an airtight container and store for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or larger amounts in the oven until warmed through.
If you’d like to freeze it, let the casserole cool completely before portioning into freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
When reheating, add a little extra pizza sauce or cheese to freshen it up. Cover with foil in the oven to prevent the top from drying out while warming.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is highly adaptable, so feel free to get creative with it.
For a vegetarian option, swap the sausage for diced mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. You can also add spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
Switch up the protein by using ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu for a different twist.
Experiment with the cheese! Add cheddar for a sharper flavor, or sprinkle in some smoked gouda for a unique smoky touch.
Gluten-free pasta works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to cook it slightly under al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the crockpot.
If you’re craving extra toppings, try adding sliced black olives, jalapeños, or even pineapple chunks for a bold twist.
This Crockpot Pizza Casserole is all about comfort, ease, and flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping meals for the week, it’s sure to become a beloved go-to recipe. Enjoy!
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Crockpot Pizza Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Crockpot Pizza Casserole is a cheesy, comforting dinner that's packed with pasta, pizza flavors, and loaded with sausage, pepperoni, and melted cheese. A slow cooker favorite that's simple to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage
- 1 cup diced pepperoni
- 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
- 12 oz cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup diced onions
- ½ cup diced green peppers
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta until al dente and set aside.
- In a skillet, brown the ground sausage with onions and green peppers until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- In the crockpot, layer half of the cooked pasta, sausage mixture, marinara sauce, pepperoni, and shredded cheeses. Repeat layers.
- Sprinkle oregano and garlic powder on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Add your favorite pizza toppings like mushrooms or olives for customization.
- Use whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta if needed.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 950mg
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