Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that combines all the hearty flavors of a pizza into a comforting, baked casserole, you are going to fall head over heels for this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole Recipe. Imagine penne pasta loaded with juicy ground beef, Italian sausage, crispy bacon, and classic pepperoni, all smothered in rich marinara sauce and topped with a gooey blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses. It’s like your favorite pizza packed into an easy-to-make, fork-friendly meal that feels perfect for family dinners or anytime you want a burst of meaty, cheesy goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, quality ingredients that each play a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that’ll make every bite memorable. From the savory meats to the cheese trio, every component is essential for that perfect meaty pizza vibe.

• 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta: These shapes hold sauce and cheese beautifully, providing a sturdy base for the casserole.
• 1 pound ground beef: Adds rich meaty flavor and juicy texture that forms the backbone of this dish.
• 1/2 pound crumbled Italian sausage: Brings a spiced and aromatic kick that complements the beef perfectly.
• 1/2 cup pepperoni slices: Classic pizza topping that adds a slight chew and burst of savory zest.
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon: Crispy, smoky bites that elevate the overall flavor profile.
• 2 cups marinara sauce or pizza sauce: Provides that familiar tangy tomato base that ties everything together.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses the casserole with authentic Italian aroma.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts smoothly and gives that irresistible stringy, cheesy texture.
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a touch of sharpness and color contrast to the cheesy topping.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty, salty finish to the cheese blend.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle layer of garlicky warmth to heighten flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon optional red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, these add a gentle kick without overpowering.

How to Make Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne or rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set it aside to cool slightly. This ensures the noodles are perfectly tender yet sturdy enough to hold up in the casserole.

Step 2: Brown the Meats

In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the ground beef and crumbled Italian sausage. Cook until both are fully browned and no pink remains, stirring occasionally to break up the meat. After cooking, drain off any excess fat. This step builds a flavorful meaty foundation that makes this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole Recipe truly exceptional.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) so it’s nice and ready to deliver that golden cheesy finish by the time your casserole mixture is assembled.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, the browned meat mixture, pepperoni slices, crumbled bacon, marinara or pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and, if using, red pepper flakes. Stir everything until well combined so every bite will be packed with flavor and color.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly to prevent sticking. Pour your hearty meat and pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Then evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses on top. This layered cheesy crown is what will meld the entire dish into a glorious bake.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and just starting to turn golden brown. This baking step melds flavors and textures into the ultimate comfort food experience.

Step 7: Let It Cool and Serve

Once out of the oven, give the casserole a few minutes to cool and set. This resting time helps the layers firm up so slicing is easier and each portion holds its shape beautifully. Now you’re ready to dig into your irresistible Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole Recipe.

How to Serve Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or oregano adds a fresh herbal brightness that contrasts well with the rich cheese and meats. You can also add some red pepper flakes on top for a little extra heat and a drizzle of good quality olive oil to enhance the richness.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a hearty meal on its own but pairing it with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette is perfect for mopping up leftover sauce and cheese.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or casual gatherings, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for convenient, personalized portions. You can also scoop the casserole into bell peppers or hollowed-out tomatoes for a colorful and fun presentation that amps up the meaty pizza experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole Recipe should be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated within two hours of cooking. It will keep wonderfully for up to 3-4 days, making it a fantastic option for easy weekday lunches or dinners.

Freezing

This casserole freezes very well. For best results, portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers or cover the entire dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap before freezing. It can be stored frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole dish covered with foil in a 350-degree oven until heated through and bubbly again. Adding a little extra cheese on top before reheating brings back that freshly-baked feeling.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne or rotini work best for holding sauce and cheese, you can substitute with other sturdy pasta shapes like rigatoni or ziti. Avoid delicate pasta like angel hair, as it won’t hold up during baking.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, just omit the meats and add hearty vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. Use a robust marinara and extra cheese to keep the casserole rich and satisfying.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake later?

Definitely. You can assemble the casserole completely, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This is perfect for busy days or meal prep plans.

What if I don’t have all the types of cheese listed?

Don’t worry! Mozzarella is your essential cheese for melt and stretch. You can skip cheddar or Parmesan or replace them with whatever cheeses you have on hand, like provolone or Monterey Jack.

How spicy is this dish with the optional red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a subtle heat that enhances but does not overpower the meaty and cheesy flavors. If you prefer little to no spice, feel free to leave them out.

Final Thoughts

This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that transforms classic pizza favorites into a cozy, baked dish everyone will love. Whether for a busy weeknight or a casual get-together, it’s sure to become one of your kitchen’s go-to comfort food treasures. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a staple on your family menu!

Print