Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

If you’re a pizza lover—and I mean the “load it up with all the meats” kind of pizza lover—then this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is about to become your new favorite comfort food. Think of all your pizza toppings (pepperoni, sausage, bacon, and more), but in casserole form. It’s hearty, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. The best part? You get all those classic pizza flavors without the hassle of dough! So grab your forks and get ready for an incredibly delicious and easy meal that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds.

This dish is like a cozy, cheesy pizza dream come true, layered with all your favorite meats and smothered in marinara sauce and gooey cheese. Trust me, you’re going to love this one!

Why You’ll Love Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

Hearty and filling: This casserole is packed with layers of savory meats, gooey cheese, and comforting pasta, making it the ultimate dinner choice for meat lovers.

Easy to make: Forget about worrying over pizza dough—this casserole comes together quickly and easily in one pan. It’s perfect for busy nights or when you’re craving pizza but don’t want the hassle.

Customizable: Add more or less of your favorite meats, or even swap them out for different types like ground turkey or chicken sausage. This recipe is totally flexible!

Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will be diving in for seconds (or thirds!). It’s a meal that satisfies everyone’s appetite.

A crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, a game night, or a potluck, this casserole is always a hit. It’s cheesy, savory, and super satisfying.

Ingredients for Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering casserole:

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
• 1/2 lb pepperoni (sliced or chopped)
• 6 oz bacon (cooked and crumbled)
• 12 oz penne pasta (or your preferred pasta shape)
• 1 jar marinara sauce (about 24 oz)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to dig in? Here’s how to make this irresistible casserole:

1. Cook the Pasta:

• Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside. It’s essential to cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will cook further in the oven.

2. Brown the Meats:

• In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking them apart with a spoon as they cook. Brown the meat for about 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
• Add the pepperoni slices and bacon (you can use pre-cooked bacon for convenience) into the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

3. Assemble the Casserole:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, the meat mixture, and marinara sauce. Stir until everything is well-coated.
• Add in oregano, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.

4. Add Cheese:

• Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by the parmesan cheese.

5. Bake:

• Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

• Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to cool. Then, scoop out a hearty portion and serve. It’s time to indulge in cheesy, meaty, pizza-flavored bliss!

(Note: The full instructions, including times and temperatures, are provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 650
Total Fat: 37g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 1,050mg
Carbohydrates: 35g

• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 6g
  Protein: 40g
  Vitamin A: 15%
  Vitamin C: 4%
  Calcium: 25%
  Iron: 15%

(Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient substitutions.)

How to Serve Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

This casserole is perfect as a standalone meal, but here are a few sides that will take it to the next level:

Garlic Bread: What’s pizza without some garlic bread on the side? Serve this casserole with warm, buttery garlic bread for the ultimate comfort food meal.

Caesar Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with romaine lettuce, parmesan, croutons, and Caesar dressing balances out the richness of the casserole.

Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies like broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers make for a colorful, nutritious side that complements the meaty casserole.

Hot Wings: If you’re feeding a crowd or want to take this meal to the next level, serve it with a side of spicy buffalo wings for that extra kick.

Additional Tips

• Make Ahead: This casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.
• Freezing: This dish freezes wonderfully! Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Meat Substitutes: Feel free to switch up the meats based on your preferences! Ground turkey or chicken sausage can be used as lighter alternatives to beef and pork.
• Extra Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, go ahead and add extra mozzarella or even provolone cheese for an extra cheesy casserole.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
A1: Yes! You can substitute the meats with vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions for a veggie-packed version of this casserole.

Q2: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A2: Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, like rigatoni, ziti, or rotini.

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A3: Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it right before serving.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Q5: Can I freeze the casserole?
A5: Yes! After assembling the casserole, cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 40-50 minutes, or until heated through.

Q6: Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
A6: Yes! Turkey sausage is a great alternative to Italian sausage if you’re looking for a lighter option.

Q7: Can I use store-bought pizza sauce instead of marinara?
A7: Yes! You can definitely use pizza sauce for a more authentic pizza flavor, or try other sauces like Alfredo for a different twist.

Q8: How can I make this dish spicier?
A8: Add more red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Q9: Can I double the recipe?
A9: Absolutely! If you’re feeding a crowd, you can double the ingredients and bake it in a larger dish.

Q10: What’s the best way to serve this casserole?
A10: Serve it hot out of the oven with your favorite sides like garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted veggies for the perfect meal.

Conclusion

This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is everything you love about pizza, but without the need for dough. It’s cheesy, meaty, and utterly satisfying—perfect for family dinners, game nights, or just when you’re craving something comforting. So, go ahead and treat yourself to a slice (or two!) of this pizza-inspired casserole. You won’t regret it!

Print