Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines the rich, savory flavors of a classic meat lover’s pizza with the hearty, satisfying texture of a baked casserole. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy night in. Imagine layers of perfectly cooked pasta, a medley of seasoned meats, gooey melted cheese, and a robust marinara sauce, all baked to golden perfection. It’s a dish that brings together the best of both worlds: the indulgence of pizza and the heartiness of a casserole.
INGREDIENTS
- 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound crumbled Italian sausage
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 2 cups marinara sauce or pizza sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon optional red pepper flakes
How to Make Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain it and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and crumbled Italian sausage over medium heat until they are browned and fully cooked. Drain any extra fat.
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meat mixture, pepperoni, bacon, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix everything well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top it with shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice it up and enjoy this delicious cheesy and meaty dish!