When it comes to quick and delicious dinner ideas, one - pot pasta dishes are a game - changer. They are not only easy to make but also minimize the number of dishes you have to wash. Today, we're going to explore a one - pot pasta dinner that combines the best flavors of a classic pepperoni pizza. And if you're feeling adventurous, we'll also show you how to give it a Hawaiian pizza twist with Canadian bacon and pineapple.

Let's start with the ingredients for the classic pepperoni pizza - inspired one - pot pasta. You'll need about 8 ounces of your favorite pasta. Whether it's penne, fusilli, or rotini, it will work great in this recipe. For the sauce, grab a 24 - ounce can of crushed tomatoes. The acidity and rich flavor of the crushed tomatoes will form the base of our pizza - like sauce. You'll also need 2 cups of water, which will help the pasta cook in the same pot as the sauce.

Now, for the pizza - specific ingredients. Get 4 ounces of sliced pepperoni. The spicy and savory flavor of pepperoni is a staple in any classic pizza. Add 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Mozzarella is known for its stretchy texture and mild flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients. You'll also want 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy kick. And don't forget the seasonings! A teaspoon of dried oregano, a teaspoon of dried basil, and a half - teaspoon of garlic powder will bring out the Italian flavors.

To make the classic version, start by heating a large, deep skillet over medium - high heat. Add the sliced pepperoni and cook until it starts to crisp up, about 3 - 4 minutes. Remove the pepperoni from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set it aside. In the same skillet, pour in the crushed tomatoes and 2 cups of water. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and garlic powder. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Once the sauce is boiling, add the pasta to the skillet. Stir well to make sure all the pasta is coated with the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the pasta cook for about 10 - 12 minutes, or until it's al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. When the pasta is almost done, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top and cover the skillet again for a minute or two until the cheese melts. Then, add the cooked pepperoni back to the skillet and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Give it a final stir, and your classic pepperoni pizza one - pot pasta is ready to serve.

Now, let's talk about the Hawaiian pizza twist. Instead of pepperoni, use 4 ounces of Canadian bacon, which has a leaner and more delicate flavor compared to regular bacon. And add 1 cup of canned pineapple chunks, drained. The sweet and tangy pineapple pairs surprisingly well with the savory Canadian bacon and the cheesy pasta.

To make the Hawaiian version, follow the same steps as the classic version. Start by cooking the Canadian bacon in the skillet until it's slightly browned. Remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Proceed with adding the crushed tomatoes, water, and seasonings. When the pasta is almost cooked, add the pineapple chunks to the skillet along with the shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover the skillet until the cheese melts. Then, add the cooked Canadian bacon back to the skillet and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Stir well, and your Hawaiian pizza - inspired one - pot pasta is ready to be enjoyed.

This one - pot pasta dinner is not only a great way to satisfy your pizza cravings but also a convenient option for busy weeknights. You can customize it further by adding other toppings like mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers. So, the next time you're looking for a delicious and easy dinner idea, give this one - pot pasta a try. It's sure to become a family favorite!