Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is packed with savory, delicious ingredients that anyone who loves meat will adore. The combination of ground beef, Italian sausage, and pepperoni slices gives this dish all the bold, rich flavors of your favorite pizza. With a cheesy, gooey topping of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan, it’s a hearty, satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it's easy to prepare, making it the perfect weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ lb Italian sausage, crumbled
• ½ cup pepperoni slices
• 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

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 9x13-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!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add More Veggies: For a little more color and nutrition, add bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the meat mixture.
• Spicy Version: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some sliced jalapeños to give it an extra kick.
• Different Meats: You can switch up the meats used in this recipe, even ground turkey for a lighter version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this casserole gluten-free, simply swap out the pasta for a gluten-free variety. There are plenty of gluten-free penne or rotini options available at most grocery stores.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and follow the instructions. You may need to add a few extra minutes of bake time if it's chilled.

Can I freeze Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole?

Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Definitely! Feel free to use your favorite cheeses. Provolone, gouda, or even a blend of Italian cheeses would all work well in this dish.

Can I use homemade pizza sauce instead of marinara?

Yes, you can use homemade pizza sauce instead of marinara for a more personalized flavor. Both options will work beautifully in this casserole.

Can I add more meat to the casserole?

Yes, if you’re looking to amp up the meaty goodness, feel free to add extra ground beef, sausage, or pepperoni. Just be sure to adjust the sauce and cheese accordingly to keep the balance.

How do I make this casserole less greasy?

To reduce the grease, be sure to drain the excess fat from the cooked meat before combining it with the pasta and sauce. This will help make the casserole less oily.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with plant-based alternatives like crumbled tofu, tempeh, or your favorite vegetarian sausage. You can also load up on more veggies for extra flavor and texture.

Can I serve this casserole with a salad?

Yes, a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would be a great complement to this rich and cheesy casserole. It adds a nice balance of flavors.

Can I make this casserole spicy?

Yes, if you love spicy food, you can add more red pepper flakes or even mix in some hot Italian sausage to give it a fiery kick!

Conclusion

This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for pizza lovers. It’s cheesy, meaty, and loaded with flavor, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or anytime you need a filling meal. Whether you're making it ahead or customizing it with your favorite toppings, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy!