Prep: 15-20 minutes (Estimated for boiling the noodles, browning the meat and onions, and layering the ingredients) Cook: 3-4 hours (As written in the recipe directions) Numbers of Serves: 6-8 Serves

slow-cooker-pizza-Italian-homemade-recipe

This slow cooker pizza recipe offers a hearty and satisfying meal with several notable health benefits. By using ground turkey or lean ground beef, you get a high amount of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Choosing part-skim mozzarella cheese helps reduce the overall saturated fat and calorie content while still providing a good source of calcium for strong bones and teeth. Additionally, the inclusion of mushrooms and onions introduces beneficial vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support immune health, while the flavorful Italian seasoning adds great taste without relying on extra salt.


Ingredients

  • 1 package (16 ounces) wide egg noodles
  • 1-1/2 pounds ground beef or turkey
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 1 jar (26 ounces) spaghetti sauce
  • 1 jar (4-1/2 ounces) sliced mushrooms, drained
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 package (3-1/2 ounces) sliced pepperoni, halved
  • 3 cups (12 ounces) shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
  • 3 cups (12 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese
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    Instructions

    1. Cook noodles according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook beef and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in the spaghetti sauce, mushrooms and Italian seasoning. Drain noodles.
    2. In a 5-qt. slow cooker coated with nonstick cooking spray, spread a third of the meat sauce. Cover with a third of the noodles and pepperoni. Sprinkle with a third of the cheese. Repeat layers twice.
    3. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until heated through and cheese is melted.

    Yield: 6-8 servings.