If you love the irresistible flavors of pizza but want a comforting pasta dish that’s quick and fuss-free, then this One-Pot Pizza Pasta Recipe will become your new weeknight hero. It’s a wonderfully saucy, cheesy, and meaty pasta creation packed with familiar pizza ingredients—all cooked together in one pot, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. Imagine tender pasta simmered in savory tomato sauce with ground beef, mini pepperoni, and those lovely Italian herbs, crowned with gooey mozzarella cheese melted to perfection. This recipe is simple, family-friendly, and guaranteed to delight pizza enthusiasts of all ages!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started on this One-Pot Pizza Pasta Recipe is a breeze because you only need a handful of ingredients that you likely have in your pantry or fridge. Each one is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and that true pizza charm inside your pasta bowl.
- Lean ground beef (1 lb): Adds hearty protein and a savory base for the dish.
- Mini pepperoni (5 oz): Brings that authentic pizza spiciness and a nice texture contrast.
- Yellow onion, finely chopped (1): Provides sweetness and depth to balance the rich meat.
- Green pepper, finely chopped (1): Offers freshness and crunch to brighten every bite.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): A must for aromatic flavor that infuses the sauce.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds subtle heat and complexity.
- Beef broth (14.75 oz can): Forms a savory liquid base that helps cook the pasta and intensifies taste.
- Pizza sauce (14 oz jar): The heart of the dish that gives it the unmistakable pizza character.
- Water (1 cup): Helps the pasta absorb the sauce while cooking perfectly.
- Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- Italian seasoning (2 teaspoons): A blend of herbs that brings authentic Italian flair.
- Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Adds a sweet herbal note complementing the sauce.
- Small shell pasta (3 cups dry): Holds the sauce well with its shape and cooks just right in one pot.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): Melts creamy and stringy for that classic cheesy finish.
How to Make One-Pot Pizza Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown Meat and Sauté Vegetables
Start by heating your large skillet with high sides over medium heat. Add the ground beef, mini pepperoni, chopped green pepper, onion, and minced garlic, seasoning with salt and black pepper. Cook everything together, breaking up the meat until it’s no longer pink and the veggies soften, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds the foundational savory flavors that will fill your kitchen with the most inviting aroma.
Step 2: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Once the meat and veggies are perfectly cooked, pour in the beef broth, pizza sauce, water, and tomato paste. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and dried basil. Stir everything well, bringing it up to a boil to start melding those rich, tangy, and herby flavors. This sauce will be the lifeblood of your pasta, so let it come to an active boil before moving on.
Step 3: Cook Pasta
When your sauce is bubbling, add the dry small shell pasta directly to the pot. Give everything a quick stir and bring it back to a boil. Then cover the pot with a lid, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. During this time, the pasta will soak up all that delicious sauce. If after 20 minutes there’s still some liquid left, just let it cook a little longer while covered until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens perfectly.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce is just right, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top and stir it gently to melt. This final cheesy touch transforms your dish into the ultimate comfort food with gooey textures and rich flavor that truly captures the magic of pizza in pasta form.
How to Serve One-Pot Pizza Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of flavor and color, consider garnishing your pasta with freshly chopped basil or parsley. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also add an exciting kick, while a little grated Parmesan on top takes the cheesiness up a notch. These simple garnishes elevate the dish visually and palate-wise, making it feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp, green salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. If you’re feeling indulgent, a side of roasted vegetables complements the Italian flavors and adds variety to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties or family gatherings, serve the One-Pot Pizza Pasta Recipe in mini cast iron skillets or individual oven-safe bowls topped with extra mozzarella and broiled for a bubbly golden crust. You might also layer it in a baking dish with extra cheese and bake briefly for a casserole twist. Either way, presentation can turn this comforting dish into a wow-worthy experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting, making reheated portions even tastier. Just be sure to cool the pasta completely before sealing it to maintain freshness.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to prep in advance. Pack cooled portions tightly in a freezer-safe container or bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
Reheat your pizza pasta gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen any thickened sauce. You can also microwave single servings, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming. Top with fresh mozzarella or a sprinkle of parmesan after reheating for a cheesy boost.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef and pepperoni and substitute with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or your favorite vegetables. For added protein, try plant-based crumbles or beans. Adjust seasoning accordingly to keep that rich flavor balance.
What pasta works best for this recipe?
Small pasta shapes like shells, elbow macaroni, or penne work best because they hold the pizza sauce beautifully and cook evenly in one pot. Avoid very large pasta which might need longer cook times or not absorb the sauce as well.
Is it possible to use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, fresh herbs like basil and oregano can be used in place of dried for a brighter, more aromatic touch. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried since fresh is less concentrated. Add fresh herbs toward the end of cooking for maximum flavor.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance and reheat?
Yes, this One-Pot Pizza Pasta Recipe is great for meal prep. Cook it fully, then cool and refrigerate. Reheat as needed by warming gently and adding a bit of liquid to revive the sauce and ensure the pasta doesn’t dry out.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes while cooking the meat or mix some spicy Italian sausage with the ground beef. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side so everyone can control their spice level.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Pizza Pasta Recipe is truly one of those meals that brings comfort and joy with every forkful. It’s simple, flavorful, and a thrilling twist on your pizza cravings. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or feeding a crowd, this dish is sure to be a beloved classic in your recipe collection—give it a try and prepare for lots of happy, satisfied smiles around your table!
Print
One-Pot Pizza Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This One-Pot Pizza Pasta recipe combines the bold flavors of pepperoni, ground beef, and Italian seasonings with tender pasta all cooked together in one skillet. Perfect for a quick and hearty dinner, it features a savory tomato-based sauce and melted mozzarella cheese that brings everything together with a comforting pizza-inspired taste in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 (5 oz) bag mini pepperoni
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 green pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Liquids
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (14.75 oz) can beef broth
- 1 (14 oz) jar pizza sauce
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
Pasta and Cheese
- 3 cups small shell pasta (dry)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Brown Meat and Sauté Vegetables: In a large high-sided skillet pan with a lid, combine the ground beef, mini pepperoni, finely chopped green pepper, yellow onion, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Cook over medium heat, crumbling the beef until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess grease from the skillet.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth, pizza sauce, and water, then stir in the tomato paste, Italian seasoning, and dried basil. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
- Cook Pasta: Once boiling, add the dry small shell pasta to the skillet. Allow the mixture to come back to a boil, then cover the pan with the lid, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it simmer for 20 minutes. Check at 20 minutes – the pasta should be tender and most of the liquid absorbed. If needed, continue cooking covered for a few more minutes.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta, stirring it thoroughly to melt the cheese and incorporate it evenly throughout. Serve immediately while hot and cheesy.
Notes
- Use pasta shapes that cook relatively quickly, like small shells, to ensure even cooking in one pot.
- Drain excess grease after browning the meat to avoid a greasy sauce.
- If you want extra spice, add red pepper flakes along with the Italian seasoning.
- For a vegetarian variation, omit beef and pepperoni and add mushrooms or plant-based sausage.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water.
