Name: One-Pot Pizza Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed; 1 cup sliced pepperoni (regular or mini); 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon dried basil; ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 12 ounces uncooked penne or rotini pasta; 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 cups pizza sauce (about 1 jar); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided; Salt and black pepper, to taste; ¼ cup sliced black olives (optional); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

If you love pizza and pasta in equal measure, you're about to meet your new favorite dinner. This One-Pot Pizza Pasta is absolutely dreamy-think melty cheese, hearty pasta, and bold pizza flavors all cozied up in a single skillet.

Everything comes together in just one pot, meaning less time scrubbing dishes and more time devouring this cheesy, saucy masterpiece. It's packed with Italian sausage, pepperoni, fresh bell peppers, and oodles of gooey mozzarella for a fun, family-friendly twist on pizza night.

This recipe is a must-try because it's outrageously easy, totally customizable, and guaranteed to please kids and grown-ups alike. Perfect for busy weeknights, casual get-togethers, or anytime you crave classic comfort food-pizza style!

I first whipped this up after a busy day, craving pizza but wanting to skip the delivery wait. Now, it's a beloved family go-to.

One-Pot Pizza Pasta: cheesy, saucy, and irresistible!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

One pot equals minimal cleanup-no pile of dishes tonight!
All the flavors of your favorite pizza mixed right into cozy pasta.
Ready in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
Totally customizable with your favorite pizza toppings and cheeses.

Key Ingredients for One-Pot Pizza Pasta

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Italian Sausage

Italian sausage brings robust flavor and savory depth to this pasta. Use either sweet or hot sausage depending on your spice preference-just make sure to remove the casing and crumble before browning. Turkey or chicken sausage makes a lighter swap, and you can even go plant-based for a vegetarian version.

Pepperoni

Pepperoni adds that signature pizza flavor and irresistible, crispy edges as it cooks. Feel free to use mini pepperoni for easy bites or swap for turkey pepperoni to cut some fat. If you're feeling adventurous, try spicy soppressata or a veggie version!

Pasta

Short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni works best for capturing all the saucy goodness. Pick your favorite shape, but make sure it cooks to al dente in the sauce. Gluten-free pasta can be used-just watch the cooking time and add extra liquid if needed.

Pizza Sauce

Rich, garlicky pizza sauce infuses every bite with classic flavor. You can use your favorite jarred sauce or make your own. Marinara, tomato basil, or even arrabbiata sauce will work-just adjust seasonings to taste.

Mozzarella Cheese

Melty mozzarella gives this dish its lush, gooey topping-absolutely essential for that pizza effect! Use whole milk, part-skim, or even fresh mozzarella for extra richness. Shredded Italian blend is a delicious alternative too.

Instructions for One-Pot Pizza Pasta

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Brown the Sausage and Pepperoni

In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink-about 5 minutes. Stir in the pepperoni and let it sizzle for 2 minutes, releasing its aromatic oils.

Add Veggies and Seasonings

Toss in the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the minced garlic, oregano, basil, and-if you like a little heat-crushed red pepper flakes. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add Pasta and Liquids

Pour in the uncooked pasta, chicken broth, and pizza sauce. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Make sure the pasta is submerged in liquid-add a splash more broth or water if necessary.

Simmer Until Pasta is Al Dente

Bring the mixture to a low boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Check the pasta a minute or two early to avoid overcooking.

Finish with Cheese and Bake

Uncover and stir in half the Parmesan, olives if using, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Sprinkle mozzarella and remaining Parmesan evenly over the top. Cover and let sit for 2 minutes to melt (or slide under a broiler for 2-3 minutes for bubbly, golden cheese).

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or basil, and serve hot straight from the pan. Enjoy all that cheesy, pizza-inspired goodness!

Recipe Variations

Make It Vegetarian

Omit the sausage and pepperoni, and toss in sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or extra bell peppers for hearty texture. Use plant-based sausage for a meaty bite without the meat!

Spice It Up

Love a kick? Add diced jalapeños or swap the sweet sausage for hot Italian sausage. A dusting of chili flakes on top brings even more heat.

Gluten-Free Option

Use your favorite gluten-free penne or rotini. Just check the package for cooking time and add extra broth as needed, since gluten-free pasta can absorb more liquid.

Dairy-Free Twist

Dairy-free cheese melts beautifully in this dish. Try a vegan mozzarella alternative, and skip the Parmesan-or use a plant-based Parmesan for all the flavor.

Extra Veggie Power

Add a couple of handfuls of baby spinach or kale in the last 2-3 minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrients. Kids won't even notice!

Serving Suggestions

Pair this One-Pot Pizza Pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in Italian dressing and some garlic bread or breadsticks for a complete meal. For an extra fresh touch, sprinkle chopped basil and a drizzle of good olive oil over each serving.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions on medium power in 45-second bursts, stirring between increments, until hot. For larger quantities, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep the pasta saucy. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months-thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions About One-Pot Pizza Pasta (FAQ)

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?

A: Absolutely! Penne, rotini, ziti, or rigatoni all work well. Adjust cook time as needed for different shapes.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes-it's great for meal prep. Store cooked pasta in the fridge and reheat before serving. Add a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce.

Q: What other toppings can I add?

A: Get creative! Try sliced mushrooms, diced ham, cooked bacon, or even pineapple for a Hawaiian twist. Just add your favorites right before simmering.

Ready to dig in? One-Pot Pizza Pasta combines the best of two worlds in every delicious bite. It's easy, customizable, and seriously crowd-pleasing. Give it a try, then drop a comment or rating to let me know how your family liked it!