Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

If you love pizza and you love pasta, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort dish. This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole combines everything we crave: hearty ground beef, spicy sausage, crispy bacon, melty cheese, and all the meaty, saucy goodness you’d expect from a loaded pizza—just baked up in cozy casserole form.

It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknights, potlucks, game days, or anytime you need something indulgent and satisfying. Even picky eaters will go back for seconds!

Plus, it’s super easy to throw together with pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. So grab your casserole dish and let’s turn pizza night into something even more irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• A hearty, cheesy, meaty dream come true for pizza and pasta lovers
• Easy to prep and great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping
• Family-friendly and endlessly customizable
• Gives you all the flavors of a meat-lovers pizza without the fuss of dough

Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole Recipe

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Serves: 6–8
• Equipment Needed: Large pot, large skillet, 9×13-inch baking dish, mixing spoon, foil

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
• 1/2 cup chopped pepperoni slices
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24 oz) jar pizza sauce or marinara sauce
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 (16 oz) package pasta (penne, rotini, or rigatoni work great)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook it until just al dente (about 9–11 minutes, depending on the type). Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Meats

• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until browned and crumbly (about 7–9 minutes). Drain off excess fat.
• Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for another 3–4 minutes until fragrant and softened.

Step 3: Add the Sauce

• Pour in the jar of pizza sauce, then stir in oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
• Let it simmer for about 5–7 minutes so the flavors come together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Mix It All Up

• In a large mixing bowl—or directly in your baking dish—combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce.
• Stir in half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese so everything gets nice and cheesy throughout.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then layer in the pasta mixture. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese on top.
• Add the chopped pepperoni and crumbled bacon over everything. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

Variations to Try:

• Swap pepperoni for chopped ham or Canadian bacon for a twist
• Add sliced mushrooms, black olives, or bell peppers to sneak in some veggies
• Use gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-friendly
• Try a spicy arrabbiata sauce if you like heat

Pro Tips:

• For extra flavor, sauté your pepperoni for a minute or two before adding—it gets crisp and adds a smoky punch
• Cook pasta just until al dente so it doesn’t turn mushy while baking
• Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving so everything sets up nicely
• Make ahead: Assemble up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake

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