Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole: A Cheesy, Hearty Meal for Meat Lovers
Craving a pizza-inspired dish packed with all your favorite meats and gooey cheese? This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is the perfect solution! With layers of savory ground beef, Italian sausage, pepperoni, combined with a rich marinara sauce and melted cheeses, this casserole is a comfort food favorite that will satisfy any meat lover’s hunger. Plus, it’s easy to make and sure to be a hit at dinner time.
Why You’ll Love This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole:
Meat-Lover’s Dream: Packed with ground beef, Italian sausage, pepperoni, this casserole has all the delicious pizza toppings in one dish.
Cheesy Goodness: Mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses melt to create a gooey, flavorful topping.
Comfort Food: A pizza-inspired meal that’s warm, hearty, and satisfying—perfect for family dinners or a casual night in.
Simple & Quick: With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious casserole ready to serve in under an hour.
Ingredients:
12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
1 lb ground beef
1/2 lb Italian sausage, crumbled
1/2 cup pepperoni slices
2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meat mixture, pepperoni, marinara or pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Top with shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses.
5. Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice and enjoy this cheesy, meaty delight!
Tips for the Perfect Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole:
Add More Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings like olives, mushrooms, or bell peppers for more flavor.
Spicy Kick: If you like heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some sliced jalapeños to the mix.
Make Ahead: You can prepare this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!
Additional Information:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings
Why You’ll Love This Casserole:
This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole brings together all the best elements of a pizza in a comforting, cheesy casserole form. It’s a surefire way to please a crowd, especially if you’re serving up a meal that combines hearty flavors with the irresistible appeal of melted cheese. Whether it’s a family dinner or a weeknight treat, this casserole is bound to be a favorite!