Pizza In A Pot
A hearty, cheesy pizza-inspired dish with ground beef, pepperoni, and melted cheeses, perfect for satisfying comfort food cravings and easy to prepare in a crock pot.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and set aside.
- Boil the egg noodles until they start to soften; they will finish cooking in the crock pot.
- Combine the cooked ground beef, noodles, and spaghetti sauce in a large bowl.
- Layer this mixture with pepperoni and shredded cheeses in the crock pot, placing the cheeses and pepperoni on top.
- Warm in the crock pot until the cheese is completely melted, about 2-3 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding Italian seasoning or garlic powder to the beef while browning. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute ground turkey for the beef. You can also use whole wheat noodles or zucchini noodles for a lighter take. Adding sautéed mushrooms can enhance the dish, providing extra texture and flavor. Leftover ingredients can be used in Cheesy Beef-Stuffed Peppers for another delicious meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pizza in a pot with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It also pairs well with a light, tangy dressing to balance the richness of the cheeses. Consider offering some crushed red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a little heat. This dish is great for gatherings or as a comforting family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place the pizza in a pot in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second increments until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pizza In A Pot contains roughly 867 calories, with 59g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (123% of the Daily Value), protein (118% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (67% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1566mg per serving (68% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match cheeses based on your preference. Provolone, parmesan, or even a spicy pepper jack can add a unique twist to the dish. Just ensure the total amount of cheese remains similar for optimal melting and flavor.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by replacing the ground beef with a meat substitute like lentils or plant-based crumbles. Use a vegetable-based spaghetti sauce and add plenty of veggies such as bell peppers, onions, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
How do I adjust the cooking time for different slow cookers?
Different slow cookers may vary in heat intensity, so it's best to check the dish after 1.5 hours if you have a high-powered model. If your slow cooker runs cooler, it may take up to 4 hours. Just ensure the cheese is melted thoroughly before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).