Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving pizza but don't want the fuss of takeout or homemade pizza dough? Then get ready to fall in love with this Crock Pot Pizza Casserole! It's a deliciously cheesy, satisfying meal that's surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers all the pizza flavor you crave without the usual hassle. It's one of those easy recipes that the whole family will adore, making it a true champion of quick dinner ideas. This healthy meals alternative is also easily customizable, so feel free to experiment with your favorite toppings! Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (removed from casings)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 ounces cooked lasagna noodles, broken into smaller pieces
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices (optional)
Instructions:
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Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine the Sauce: In your slow cooker, combine the cooked sausage and onion mixture with the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
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Add Noodles and Cheese: Gently stir in the broken lasagna noodles. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese and the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
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Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the noodles are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If using pepperoni, add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
Cooking Tips for the Best Crock Pot Pizza Casserole:
- Pre-cook your noodles: Using pre-cooked lasagna noodles ensures they're tender and ready to go, saving you time and preventing them from becoming mushy.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked noodles can become soggy. Check for doneness after the minimum cooking time and adjust accordingly.
- Cheese it up!: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses would all be delicious additions.
- Spice it up!: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
Delicious Variations:
- Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Meat Lovers: Add extra pepperoni, sausage, or even ground beef for a heartier meal.
- Extra veggies: Add in some chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This Crock Pot Pizza Casserole is a delightful example of homemade cooking at its finest. It's a quick, easy, and delicious dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying meal, perfect for your next family dinner or a casual weeknight gathering. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of best recipes, providing a fun twist on a classic favorite.