Easy Instant Pot Pepperoni Pizza Casserole with Pasta Recipe
Step into the realm of simplicity with our Easy Instant Pot Pepperoni Pizza Casserole with Pasta Recipe is a delectable fusion that captures the essence of classic comfort and Italian flair. This savory masterpiece, expertly crafted in the Instant Pot for efficiency, marries the beloved flavors of pepperoni pizza with the heartiness of pasta. Imagine tender pasta enveloped in a luscious tomato sauce, adorned with the bold kick of pepperoni slices, and generously smothered in gooey melted cheese. This effortless yet mouthwatering recipe promises to elevate your weeknight dinner routine, offering a comforting and flavorful experience. Get ready to embark on a journey that marries the ease of Instant Pot cooking with the irresistible allure of a pepperoni pizza casserole.
INGREDIENTS FOR INSTANT POT PIZZA casserole:
Together, these meticulously selected ingredients create a pepperoni pizza casserole that promises flavor, texture, and comfort in every bite.
- 1 lbs. Ground Beef/Ground Turkey/Italian Sausage: The meat serves as the hearty base of the dish, adding savory flavor and a satisfying texture.
- 1 Onion (diced): Diced onion contributes a sweet and aromatic element, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- 1 Green Pepper (diced): Diced green peppers bring a crisp and slightly tangy quality, complementing the richness of the beef.
- 4 Garlic (cloves)(minced): Minced garlic provides a robust and aromatic undertone and could be substituted with one teaspoon garlic powder.
- 2 Tsp Italian Seasoning: Italian seasoning, a blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, elevates the flavor with a Mediterranean flair.
- 4 oz Cream Cheese: Cream cheese adds a luxurious and creamy texture to the skillet, enhancing the overall richness.
- 2 Cups Beef Broth (or water): Beef broth or water forms the cooking liquid, to cook the pasta.
- 8 oz Penne Pasta (use your favorite): Penne pasta absorbs the savory flavors of the sauce.
- 24 oz Pasta Sauce (use your favorite): Spaghetti sauce or marinara sauce there are many tomato sauce options to choose from to suit your taste.
- 1 Cup Pepperoni (slices): Sliced pepperoni introduces a zesty and savory kick and another option is using mini pepperoni.
- 2 Cups Mozzarella Cheese (shredded): Shredded mozzarella cheese blankets the dish, melting into gooey perfection for that irresistible cheesy pull.
- ¼ Cup Parmesan Cheese (shredded): Shredded Parmesan cheese adds a sharp and salty note, contributing to the overall umami depth of the skillet.
- Season with Salt and Pepper (to taste): Adjust seasoning according to your taste.
Why use the Instant Pot versus the stovetop or Crock pot?
While stovetop and slow cooker methods have their merits, the Instant Pot’s time efficiency, all-in-one cooking capabilities, flavor infusion, consistent results, hands-free operation, and versatility make it a popular choice for busy households looking to enjoy a delicious and efficient meal like the Instant Pot pizza pasta.
- Time Efficiency: The pressure cooker is known for its ability to significantly reduce cooking time. The high-pressure cooking function allows the ingredients to cook quickly, making it an ideal choice for a quick and convenient weeknight meal.
- All-in-One Cooking: The cooker allows you to complete multiple cooking steps in a single pot. From sautéing the ground beef and vegetables to pressure cooking the pasta and sauce, the Instant Pot streamlines the cooking process, minimizing the number of dishes to clean.
- Flavor Infusion: The sealed environment of the Instant Pot helps retain and intensify flavors. The pressure cooking method allows the ingredients to meld together, resulting in a more flavorful and cohesive dish.
- Consistent Results: The Instant Pot’s precise temperature control and automated cooking functions help achieve consistent results every time. This can be particularly beneficial for pasta dishes, ensuring the pasta is cooked perfectly without becoming mushy.
- Hands-Free Operation: Once you set the pressure cooker, it requires minimal attention. This hands-free cooking allows you to multitask or attend to other aspects of your day while the meal is being prepared.
- Versatility: The pressure cooker offers a variety of cooking functions, including sauté, pressure cook, and keep warm. This versatility allows for a range of cooking techniques within the same appliance.
HOW TO ASSEMBLE PIZZA CASSEROLE?
Time needed: 36 minutes
- Fire Up the Instant Pot:
Set your pressure cooker to the sauté function. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion, green pepper, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Add the cream cheese to the Instant Pot and stir until it’s melted and well combined with the beef and vegetables.
- Add the Pasta and Sauce:
Pour in the beef broth (or water) and deglaze the bottom of the pot, ensuring there are no bits stuck to the bottom.
Add the penne pasta to the pot, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
Pour the tomato sauce and beef broth (or water) over the pasta, making sure it covers the pasta evenly. - Add Pepperoni:
Layer the pepperoni on top and do not stir. - Begin to Pressure Cook:
Close the pressure cooker lid and set the vent to the sealing position. Cancel the sauté function.
Cook time on high pressure for 5-6 minutes. Once the cooking is complete, let it naturally release for 8-10 minutes then perform a quick release. - Open the Pressure Cooker:
Open the Instant Pot and stir the pasta to ensure it’s evenly coated with the pizza sauce and cooked to al dente. If the pasta is not softened enough turn the sauté function on again and cook for a couple more minutes. - Add the Cheeses:
Then top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Check for seasoning add more salt and pepper to taste.
Place the lid back on the pot for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
Once the cheese is melted, carefully remove the inner pot from the pressure cooker. - Plate and Serve:
Serve the casserole directly from the Instant Pot or transfer it to a serving dish. This will be a meal the entire family loves.
FAQ – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS?
Yes, you can experiment with various pasta shapes based on personal preference. Just be mindful of adjusting the cooking time accordingly based on the size of the pasta.
Feel free to customize the recipe by using your favorite pizza toppings or omitting the regular pepperoni and substituting turkey pepperoni. Mushrooms, black olives, or bell peppers can be delicious substitutes.
Yes, you can adapt the recipe for a slow cooker by adjusting the cooking times. However, the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking function contributes to the dish’s unique texture.
Adding red pepper flakes or using an arrabbiata sauce infused with red pepper flakes is an easy way to spice things up.
Opt for a classic marinara sauce with garlic and basil for a timeless taste. If you crave pizza taste using a true pizza sauce is an excellent choice. While roasted garlic pasta sauce brings a sweet and mellow depth. Fire-roasted tomato sauce brings a smoky undertone, and if you prefer a hands-on approach, homemade tomato sauce allows you to tailor the flavors to your liking.
HOW TO SERVE PIZZA CASSEROLE?
To complement the savory and cheesy goodness of the Instant Pot pepperoni pizza casserole, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to provide a refreshing contrast. Add a side of garlic bread or breadsticks for that perfect element of comfort, allowing guests to soak up the delectable flavors of the casserole. Roasted or steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, can add a touch of nutrition and color to the plate. To round out the meal, a small bowl of fresh fruit, like sliced melons or berries, provides a sweet and palate-cleansing finale. This combination ensures a well-balanced and satisfying dining experience.
HOW TO STORE AND REHEAT LEFTOVER CASSEROLE?
To store and reheat leftover casserole, it’s key to preserve its flavors and textures. Once the casserole has cooled to room temperature, transfer any remaining portions into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to reheat, the microwave is a quick option, but for better texture retention, using an oven or toaster oven at a low to medium temperature is preferable. Adding a few drops of water over the casserole before reheating adds moisture. Stir the pasta midway through the reheating process can help ensure even warmth. Keep a close eye to avoid overcooking, and reaching your desired warmth.
Can Pizza Casserole leftovers be easily frozen?
Certainly! Pizza casserole leftovers can be easily frozen for another day. Once the casserole has cooled to room temperature, divide it into individual portions or the desired serving sizes. Place these portions in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag, ensuring a tight seal to prevent freezer burn. Label the containers with the freezing date and any reheating instructions if needed. When you’re ready to eat the dish again, thaw the frozen pizza casserole in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it using your preferred reheat method, such as the oven or microwave. While the texture of some ingredients may change after freezing, this method allows for easy storage of your pizza casserole.
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Easy Instant Pot Pepperoni Pizza Casserole with Pasta Recipe
Equipment
- Instant Pot/Pressure Cooker
Ingredients
- 1 lbs Ground Beef
- 1 Onion (diced)
- 1 Green Pepper (diced)
- 4 Garlic (cloves)(minced)
- 2 Tsp Italian Seasoning
- 4 oz Cream Cheese
- 2 Cups Beef Broth (or water)
- 8 oz Penne Pasta (use your favorite)
- 24 oz Spaghetti Sauce (use your favorite)
- 1 Cup Pepperoni (sliced)
- 2 Cups Mozzarella Cheese (shredded)
- ¼ Cup Parmesan Cheese (shredded)
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion, green pepper, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the cream cheese to the Instant Pot and stir until it’s melted and well combined with the beef and vegetables.
- Pour in the beef broth (or water) and deglaze the bottom of the Instant Pot, ensuring there are no bits stuck to the bottom.
- Add the penne pasta to the Instant Pot, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
- Pour the spaghetti sauce and beef broth (or water) over the pasta, making sure it covers the pasta evenly. Layer the pepperoni on top and do not stir.
- Close the Instant Pot lid and set the vent to the sealing position. Cancel the sauté function.
- Cook on high pressure for 6 minutes. Once the cooking is complete, let it naturally release for 8-10 minutes then perform a quick pressure release.
- Open the Instant Pot and stir the pasta to ensure it's evenly coated with the sauce and cooked to your desired tenderness. If the pasta is not cooked enough turn the saute function on again and cook for a couple more minutes.
- Then top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Check for seasoning add more salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the lid back on the Instant Pot for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
- Once the cheese is melted, carefully remove the inner pot from the Instant Pot.
- Serve the Pepperoni Pizza Casserole with Pasta directly from the Instant Pot or transfer it to a serving dish.