Slow Cooker Pizza Casserole
Type: Entree
Cuisine: Italian
Prep Time: 
Cook Time: 
Total Time: 
Serves: 6 servings
 
Ingredients
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 2½ cups (10 ounces) whole wheat penne pasta, dry
  • 2½ cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, part-skim
  • ⅔ cup water
  • 1 small white onion, diced
  • 2 cloves (1 tsp) garlic, minced
  • 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
  • Family-favorite toppings (optional): pepperoni slices, Canadian bacon, pineapple, tomatoes, fresh basil, olives, green peppers, mushrooms, etc.
Instructions
  1. In a large pan on medium heat, add lean ground beef, diced onions, garlic and Italian seasoning and cook until beef is browned. (Time-saver tip: Do this step the night before and keep in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble the dish.)
  2. In a large bowl, combine dry pasta and marinara sauce until coated.
  3. Spray slow cooker with nonstick spray.
  4. Pour ⅓ of the pasta, ⅓ of the meat mixture, and ⅓ cup of shredded cheese (keep from touching the sides to avoid burning) in slow cooker. Repeat with rest of ingredients for three layers total. (Note: You may also add toppings in between layers.)
  5. Pour ⅔ cup of water over casserole and then arrange your family-favorite toppings.
  6. Cover with lid and cook on low for about 3 hours. Cook times may vary depending on slow cooker.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size: ⅙ dish Calories: 323 Fat: 12 g Carbohydrates: 31 g Sodium: 560 mg Fiber: 5 g Protein: 25 g Cholesterol: 60 mg
Recipe by JTA Wellness; San Antonio Dietitians at https://www.jtawellness.com/2022/06/slow-cooker-pizza-casserole/