If you’re a fan of hearty meals that bring everyone together, the Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is a fantastic choice. This dish combines all the beloved flavors of pizza, but in a warm, comforting casserole form. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you crave something filling and delicious.
Table of Contents
Why Make This Recipe
The Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is not only easy to prepare, but it also allows you to satisfy your cravings for pizza in a new and exciting way. With a blend of meats and cheesy goodness, this dish is bound to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it can be prepared ahead of time, making it a great option for busy weekdays.
How to Make Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole
Creating this delicious casserole is simple and straightforward. Follow the steps below to whip up this savory dish.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage, crumbled
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the marinara or pizza sauce and Italian seasoning into the meat mixture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meat sauce, pepperoni, and bacon. Mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Top with cheese if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole
Serve the Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole warm from the oven. It pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Each person can serve themselves a hearty portion, making it great for sharing.
How to Store Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole
If you have leftovers, simply let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure to use an airtight container or wrapping.
Tips to Make Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole
- Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions, to customize your casserole.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle some extra cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking.
- If you want a spicier version, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
Variation
You can easily adjust this recipe to suit your preferences. Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and sausage for a lighter option. You can also substitute the marinara sauce with alfredo sauce for a creamy twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for a day before baking.
Q: Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Simply skip the meat and use additional veggies, like spinach and bell peppers, along with a meatless sauce.
Q: How can I reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or warm the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Enjoy making and sharing your Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole! It’s sure to be a new favorite.
Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ lb Italian sausage, crumbled
- ½ cup pepperoni slices
- ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the marinara or pizza sauce and Italian seasoning into the meat mixture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meat sauce, pepperoni, and bacon. Mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Top with cheese if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
