Name: One Pot Pizza Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground Italian sausage or ground beef; 1/2 cup diced onion; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 1/2 cups marinara or pizza sauce; 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 12 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1 cup mini pepperoni slices; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

There’s something magical about a dish that delivers the comfort of pizza and the hearty satisfaction of pasta—all in one pot. One Pot Pizza Pasta brings together al dente rotini noodles, sizzling sausage or ground beef, tangy marinara sauce, and melty mozzarella, all kissed with the flavors of classic pizzeria toppings like pepperoni and Italian herbs. It’s cheesy, saucy, and full of cozy, nostalgic vibes—without the need to knead dough or fire up the oven.

This recipe is your ticket to a family favorite weeknight meal with minimal cleanup. It’s perfect for those evenings when you crave something indulgent, but don’t want to juggle five different pots and pans. With bold tomato richness, savory meat, and gooey cheese stretching with every bite, One Pot Pizza Pasta is a flavor-packed fusion that’ll have everyone scraping their plates clean.

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Pizza Pasta Recipe

One pot means less mess. Everything cooks together—no need to boil and drain pasta separately.
Ultimate comfort food. It combines two universally loved dishes: pizza and pasta.
Fast and easy. Ready in about 30 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights.
Customizable. Add your favorite pizza toppings like mushrooms, olives, bell peppers, or extra pepperoni.
Kid-approved and crowd-pleasing. Cheesy, saucy, and totally crave-worthy.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use for One Pot Pizza Pasta

Essential Tools and Equipment + Why Each One Matters

Creating One Pot Pizza Pasta is as much about efficiency as it is about flavor. The right tools not only streamline your cooking process but ensure even cooking and that signature cheesy melt. Here’s what you need:

Large Deep Skillet or Dutch Oven: This is the heart of the recipe. A deep skillet or Dutch oven with a lid allows the pasta to cook evenly in the sauce and absorb all the flavors without spilling over.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: You’ll need something sturdy to stir the ingredients as they cook and to scrape up flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot.
Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping onions, slicing pepperoni, or prepping any optional veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure your seasoning, pasta, and liquids are perfectly balanced.
Grater (optional): If using fresh mozzarella or Parmesan instead of pre-shredded.

These tools aren’t complicated—but each one plays a crucial role in making the recipe seamless, from stovetop to table.

Preparation Tips

To make the cooking process as smooth as your melted cheese, keep these tips in mind:

Pre-measure your ingredients. Once the pasta goes into the pot, things move quickly. Having everything ready ahead saves stress.
Brown your meat first. This adds depth of flavor and ensures you’re not boiling raw meat in the sauce.
Deglaze with broth or water if needed. After browning, scrape the pot to lift any flavorful bits before adding sauce and pasta.
Don’t overcook the pasta. Remember: it continues cooking a bit even after removing from heat, especially in a hot pot.
Layer cheese wisely. Stir some into the pasta for melt-through richness, then top it all off for that golden, gooey finish.

Ingredients for This One Pot Pizza Pasta Recipe

This comforting, pizza-inspired pasta dish relies on pantry staples and easy-to-find ingredients that pack bold flavor into every bite. Here’s everything you’ll need to bring it together:

Main Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing and flavor foundation.
1 pound ground Italian sausage or ground beef – Adds savory depth and protein.
½ cup diced onion – Aromatic base that brings sweetness and flavor.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the sauce with bold, zesty notes.
2½ cups marinara or pizza sauce – Rich tomato flavor; opt for your favorite brand or homemade.
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth – Helps cook the pasta directly in the pot and infuses it with flavor.
12 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta) – Holds sauce beautifully in its spirals.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Classic herb blend that brings pizza vibes.
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – For a mild kick.
1 cup mini pepperoni slices – A pizza must-have that adds savory, salty bites.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Melty, stringy goodness throughout.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – For a salty, nutty finish.
Fresh basil or parsley (optional) – For garnish and a pop of color.

Step-by-Step Instructions for One Pot Pizza Pasta

Time to bring your ingredients together into one bubbling, cheesy skillet of joy. These easy steps guide you from raw to irresistible in under 30 minutes.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Meat

Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions and sauté for 2–3 minutes until they soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the ground Italian sausage or beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Build the Sauce Base

Once the meat is browned, pour in the marinara or pizza sauce. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to deepen the flavor.
Add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if using.

Step 3: Add Pasta and Broth

Stir in the uncooked rotini pasta, then pour in the chicken broth. Make sure the pasta is just covered with liquid.
Bring everything to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender.

Step 4: Add the Pizza Toppings

Once the pasta is nearly done, stir in half of the mozzarella and all the pepperoni slices. Mix well and allow the cheese to melt through.

Step 5: Melt and Serve

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover the pot and let it sit for 2–3 minutes off heat until the cheese is melted and gooey.
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness.

Notes

Customize to Your Taste: This recipe is ultra-flexible. Swap out the pepperoni for cooked sausage slices, mushrooms, or olives. Use your favorite type of pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle.
Cheese Choices: While mozzarella gives the best pizza-like melt, you can mix in provolone, fontina, or a bit of sharp cheddar for extra dimension.
Make It Vegetarian: Skip the meat and double up on sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for a hearty, meatless version.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and double-check that your broth and sauce are certified gluten-free.
Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference—or leave them out for a milder dish.
Extra Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese before serving for a richer, creamier finish.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Using too little liquid: Pasta needs to be fully submerged in liquid to cook evenly. If it starts drying out, add a splash of broth or water.
Overcooking the pasta: Remember, the pasta continues to soften after removing from heat. Cook just until al dente.
Adding cheese too early: If you add cheese while the pasta is still cooking, it may clump or stick. Stir it in at the end for best melt and texture.
Not stirring enough: Stirring occasionally while the pasta cooks prevents it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Using high heat throughout: After the initial sauté, reduce the heat to avoid burning or uneven cooking.
Crowding the pot with toppings: Less is more. Too many add-ins can overwhelm the balance of sauce, pasta, and cheese.
Skipping the resting step: Letting the pasta sit covered after turning off the heat allows the cheese to melt evenly and the sauce to thicken.

What to Serve With One Pot Pizza Pasta?

Although this hearty, cheesy pasta dish is a star on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate the meal into a full-on feast. Whether you’re serving family, guests, or just treating yourself, these options balance out the richness and add texture, freshness, or a crisp contrast.

8 Recommendations:

Garlic Bread or Cheesy Breadsticks
Crunchy, buttery, and perfect for scooping up every bit of that leftover sauce.
Simple Green Salad
A refreshing contrast—toss mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the cheese and meat.
Roasted Vegetables
Try oven-roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli with olive oil and herbs for a wholesome balance.
Caesar Salad
The creamy dressing and crispy croutons pair wonderfully with the pasta’s bold tomato and cheese flavors.
Antipasto Platter
Serve a small spread of marinated olives, artichokes, and salami for a fun Italian-themed dinner experience.
Grilled Asparagus
Lightly charred asparagus spears offer a smoky contrast that complements the dish’s richness.
Tomato Basil Soup
For the ultimate comfort food combo, pair with a warm, silky bowl of tomato soup.
Chilled Sparkling Water or Italian Soda
A bubbly drink refreshes the palate and adds a festive touch to the table.

Storage Instructions

One Pot Pizza Pasta stores exceptionally well, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers that taste just as good—if not better—the next day.

Refrigerator:

Let the pasta cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, or reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.

Freezer:

You can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months, although the texture of the pasta may soften slightly upon thawing.
Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty resealable bags.
To serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with added moisture.

Pro Tip: Store portions individually for easy grab-and-go lunches or quick solo dinners.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 6 Servings)

Note: Values may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

Calories: ~480
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 6g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 820mg
Calcium: 220mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make One Pot Pizza Pasta ahead of time?

Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep. Cook the dish fully, let it cool, and store in the fridge. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to revive the sauce.

2. What pasta shapes work best for this recipe?

Short pasta varieties like rotini, penne, fusilli, or shells are ideal. Their shape holds the sauce well and cooks evenly in one pot.

3. Can I use store-bought pizza sauce instead of marinara?

Absolutely! Pizza sauce adds a more concentrated tomato flavor, which gives an even stronger “pizza” vibe. Just ensure it’s not too thick—if so, thin it with a bit of broth or water.

4. Is this recipe spicy?

Not by default. It has mild heat from Italian sausage and optional red pepper flakes. If you’re cooking for sensitive eaters or kids, simply omit the spice.

5. Can I add vegetables to the pasta?

Yes, and it’s a great way to bulk it up! Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, spinach, or even diced zucchini. Sauté them with the onion for best texture.

6. How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Skip the meat and load up on veggies or use plant-based meat alternatives. Just keep the protein and fat content balanced for a satisfying dish.

7. Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely—just make sure your pot is large enough to handle double the volume. You may need a few extra minutes for the pasta to cook evenly.

8. How can I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Stir in the cheese after the heat is off or very low. Also, distribute it evenly and avoid dumping it all in one spot. Use freshly shredded cheese if possible for smoother melting.

Conclusion

One Pot Pizza Pasta is the ultimate union of convenience and indulgence. It delivers the saucy, cheesy, meaty essence of pizza in pasta form—all with minimal cleanup and maximum comfort. Whether you’re cooking for a hungry family, prepping meals for the week, or just craving something soul-satisfying after a long day, this recipe fits the bill.

Customizable, kid-approved, and dinner-party worthy, it belongs in every home cook’s go-to rotation. One bite in, and you’ll see why this cheesy skillet is more than just dinner—it’s a warm, delicious hug in a bowl.