Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this pepperoni slice macaroni will become a favorite.
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Only 4 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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No pre-cooking. The pasta cooks right in the slow cooker.
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Set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the work.
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Cheesy and saucy. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves pizza-flavored pasta.
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Budget-friendly. Pasta, sauce, and cheese are inexpensive.
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Perfect for busy weeknights and game days.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
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16 oz (1 pound) dry elbow macaroni
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24–26 oz jar pizza sauce or thick marinara sauce
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3 cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese, divided
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6 oz sliced pepperoni (about 1 to 1 1/2 cups), divided
Ingredient Notes
Elbow macaroni: Use dry elbow macaroni. It cooks perfectly in the slow cooker.
Pizza sauce: Use pizza sauce or thick marinara sauce. It adds rich tomato flavor.
Mozzarella cheese: Use low-moisture mozzarella. It melts beautifully.
Pepperoni: Adds savory, spicy flavor. Reserve some for the top.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly spray the inside of a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Add the Pasta and Sauce
Add the dry elbow macaroni to the slow cooker. Pour the pizza sauce over the pasta. Fill the empty sauce jar about halfway with water, swirl to catch any leftover sauce, and pour it into the slow cooker. Stir until all of the macaroni is coated and mostly submerged.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Pepperoni
Stir in 2 cups of the shredded mozzarella cheese, reserving the remaining 1 cup for the top. Fold in about half of the sliced pepperoni, saving the rest for layering on top later.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 2 to 2 1/2 hours. Around the 1 1/2-hour mark, quickly lift the lid and give the mixture a gentle stir, scraping the bottom to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Add the Toppings
Once the macaroni is tender and the sauce is bubbling around the edges, smooth the top with a spoon. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella evenly over the surface. Arrange the remaining pepperoni slices over the cheese in a single layer.
Step 6: Finish Cooking
Cover and cook on LOW for another 15 to 25 minutes, until the cheese on top is fully melted, gooey, and starting to bubble.
Step 7: Serve
For thicker pasta, turn off the slow cooker and let it sit uncovered for 5 to 10 minutes. Serve hot.
How to Serve Pepperoni Slice Macaroni
This cheesy, saucy pasta is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it even better.
With Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up the sauce.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Extra Cheese: Sprinkle with Parmesan.
With Red Pepper Flakes: Add a pinch for heat.
With Fresh Herbs: Garnish with basil or parsley.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Sausage: Add cooked Italian sausage.
Make It with Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms.
Make It with Vegetables: Add bell peppers or onions.
Make It with Different Cheese: Use provolone or cheddar.
Make It with Different Sauce: Use marinara or arrabbiata.
Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes.
Make It with Extra Pepperoni: Add more pepperoni.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
Make It in the Oven: Bake at 375°F for 30 to 40 minutes.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Do not overcook the pasta. Check at 2 hours.
Stir halfway through. This prevents sticking.
Use low-moisture mozzarella. It melts better.
Let the pasta rest before serving. This thickens the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes. Penne or shells can be used.
Can I use a different sauce?
Yes. Marinara or tomato sauce can be used.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes. Provolone or cheddar can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Reheat before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my pasta mushy?
It was overcooked. Check at 2 hours.
Why is my sauce too thin?
The pasta released too much starch. Let it rest.
Can I add more cheese?
Yes. Use up to 4 cups.
Can I use a different pan?
This recipe is designed for a slow cooker.
The Beauty of Pizza-Inspired Pasta
There is something deeply satisfying about a pasta dish that tastes like pizza. It is cheesy. It is saucy. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This pepperoni slice macaroni is a celebration of all those things.
Keep pasta in your pantry. Keep pizza sauce in your cupboard. Keep cheese and pepperoni in your fridge. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2 to 2 1/2 hours on LOW, plus 15 to 25 minutes for cheese melt
Total Time: Approximately 2 1/2 to 3 hours
Yield: 6 servings