If you have ever wished you could enjoy the comforting flavors of pizza and pasta all in one bowl, then you are in for a treat with this One-Pot Pizza Pasta Recipe. This dish brilliantly combines savory Italian sausage, spicy pepperoni, tender pasta, and gooey melted cheese, all cooked together in a single pot for an effortless, satisfying meal. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner when you want big flavors without the big cleanup, and it’s guaranteed to become a fast favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this One-Pot Pizza Pasta Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients — each chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color without any fuss. From the hearty Italian sausage to the tangy tomato base and the melty cheese blend, every component plays a crucial role in making this dish so deliciously irresistible.
- Olive oil: Adds a rich, fruity base to sauté the meat and aromatics.
- Italian sausage (half a pound, casings removed): Brings hearty, spiced flavor essential for that pizza taste.
- Pepperoni slices (half a cup, halved): Provides a classic pizza punch with a slightly spicy edge.
- Small onion (diced): Offers sweetness and depth once softened.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Infuses robust aroma and flavor to the sauce.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A herbaceous blend that ties the dish together.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (quarter teaspoon, optional): Gives a subtle heat if you like some kick.
- Can of crushed tomatoes (14 ounces): Forms the tangy, savory base of the sauce.
- Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
- Chicken broth (3 cups): Helps cook the pasta and adds flavorful moisture.
- Short pasta (8 ounces, like penne or rotini): Shapes that hold sauce perfectly in every bite.
- Sliced black olives (half a cup): Adds a briny contrast to balance the richness.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Creates that irresistible gooey, melty top layer.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (quarter cup): Brings a sharp, nutty finishing touch.
- Fresh basil or parsley (chopped): For a bright, fresh garnish that lifts the whole dish.
How to Make One-Pot Pizza Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat and Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating your olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. This step infuses the dish with savory richness. Then, stir in the pepperoni, diced onion, and minced garlic, cooking everything for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic becomes fragrant — this builds the perfect flavor foundation.
Step 2: Add Seasonings and Tomato Base
Next, it’s time to season the mixture with Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes if you want a little fire. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, which combined will create a lush, flavorful sauce. Pour in the chicken broth to add moisture and depth, which also helps the pasta cook evenly later on.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta in the Sauce
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add your uncooked pasta directly into the pot. Stir well to submerge the pasta in the liquid. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed — creating a perfectly saucy result.
Step 4: Add Olives and Cheese
With the pasta cooked, now stir in the sliced black olives and half of the shredded mozzarella. This adds even more flavor and some delightful briny contrast. Then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, just until the cheese melts into a luscious, bubbly topping.
How to Serve One-Pot Pizza Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley not only add a lovely pop of green but also a fresh, herbal brightness that balances the richness of the sausage and cheese. Sprinkle generously right before serving for the best presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish is a hearty meal on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette or a side of garlic bread to mop up the delicious sauce. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers also complement the Italian flavors wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this pasta in mini cast-iron skillets or individual ramekins and broil the cheese topping for a crispy golden finish. It also works great as a casual set-up where everyone scoops their own hearty helping from a big communal pot.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover One-Pot Pizza Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this pasta dish, but for best texture, freeze before adding the cheese topping. Store it in a freezer-safe container and use within two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and adding fresh cheese.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring well to heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just skip the Italian sausage and pepperoni, then load up on your favorite veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for an equally delicious vegetarian version.
What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta shapes like penne or rotini are ideal because they hold the sauce well and cook evenly in the one-pot method, giving you that signature pizza pasta bite.
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
Yes, turkey sausage is a great leaner alternative. Just be mindful it may have a milder flavor, so consider adding a pinch more Italian seasoning or some smoked paprika to boost the taste.
Is it possible to make this recipe spicy?
Definitely! The crushed red pepper flakes add a controlled heat, but you can increase the amount or add some chopped fresh chili peppers if you enjoy more spice.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
Stir the pasta occasionally as it cooks and make sure there’s enough liquid in the pot. The chicken broth combined with tomatoes keeps everything nice and saucy, preventing stickiness.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Pizza Pasta Recipe is truly a game-changer for anyone who loves fuss-free meals bursting with classic pizza flavors. Quick to make and irresistibly satisfying, it’s bound to become your go-to comfort dinner that pleases both kids and adults alike. So grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy a warm, cheesy, saucy bowl of happiness tonight!
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One-Pot Pizza Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This One-Pot Pizza Pasta Recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make dinner that combines the flavors of classic pizza with hearty pasta. Featuring Italian sausage, pepperoni, melted mozzarella, and a savory tomato sauce all cooked together in one pot, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Meat and Proteins
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices (halved)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Liquids and Sauces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 cups chicken broth
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Pasta and Cheese
- 8 ounces short pasta (like penne or rotini)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the sausage: In a large deep skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked through.
- Sauté pepperoni and aromatics: Stir in the halved pepperoni slices, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
- Add seasonings and sauces: Mix in the Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Then stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth until well combined.
- Simmer with pasta: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the uncooked pasta. Stir well to combine. Cover the pot and simmer for about 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Incorporate olives and cheese: Stir in the sliced black olives and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top. Cover again and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts completely.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the lid, garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley, and serve the pasta hot straight from the pot.
Notes
- Feel free to customize with your favorite pizza toppings such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or cooked bacon.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and pepperoni and use extra veggies instead.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the crushed red pepper flakes according to taste.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
