Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole -

Introduction

If you’re craving the savory, cheesy, and meaty flavors of a classic pizza, but want something even heartier and more comforting, then our Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is exactly what you need. This dish takes everything you adore about a loaded meat lovers pizza—pepperoni, sausage, ground beef, and plenty of gooey cheese—and transforms it into a bubbling, golden-baked casserole that’s perfect for family dinners, game days, or indulgent weekend meals.

Our version is packed with layers of bold flavor, gooey mozzarella, a rich pizza sauce, and a trio of succulent meats that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s easy to make, customizable with your favorite toppings, and bakes up beautifully with crispy edges and a melty center. Think of it as pizza meets lasagna, but with a meaty punch that truly satisfies.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping meals ahead, or simply looking to indulge in the ultimate comfort food, this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is bound to become a new favorite. Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible dish.

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)

Preparation

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, according to package instructions (usually about 9–11 minutes). Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Meats

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook until browned and crumbled, about 7–9 minutes. Drain excess fat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and translucent.

Step 3: Add the Pizza Sauce

Stir in the pizza sauce, oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Meat Sauce

In a large mixing bowl or directly in the baking dish, mix the cooked pasta with the meat sauce until evenly coated. Stir in half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese to help bind the mixture.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the pasta mixture. Top with remaining mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, pepperoni slices, and crumbled bacon. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.

Variation

Want to mix things up? Try these delicious variations:

Low-Carb Version: Substitute the pasta with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower florets.
Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage and add jalapeño slices before baking.
Veggie Add-In: Include mushrooms, black olives, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition.
Extra Cheese Lovers: Add ricotta or provolone between the layers.
Crusty Top: Sprinkle Italian breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking for extra crunch.

COOKING Note

For best results, allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the cheese set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve. If you prefer crispier pepperoni, consider broiling the casserole for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking.

Serving Suggestion

This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole pairs beautifully with:

Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
A crisp Caesar salad or Italian house salad
Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans
A side of marinara for dipping

For drinks, consider a bold red wine like Chianti or a cold craft beer to complement the savory, meaty flavors.

Tips

Use a deep 9×13 pan to avoid spillovers.
This casserole freezes well—make it ahead, freeze after assembling (before baking), and bake from frozen (add 15–20 minutes to baking time).
Double the recipe and freeze one for a rainy day.
Make it a crowd-pleaser by adding a “pizza toppings bar” where everyone can customize their casserole portion.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the entire casserole a day ahead, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve, adding 5–10 minutes to the baking time.

Can I use store-bought pizza crust or dough instead of pasta?

For a more pizza-like experience, you can line the bottom of the baking dish with rolled-out pizza dough. Precook it slightly before adding the meat mixture to prevent sogginess.

What’s the best pasta to use?

Hearty shapes like rigatoni, penne, or rotini work best because they hold onto the sauce and don’t fall apart while baking.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your pizza sauce and meats are certified gluten-free.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Be generous with your sauce and cheese, and make sure to cover with foil for the first part of baking to retain moisture.

Conclusion

Our Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole brings all the crave-worthy flavors of your favorite pizzeria right into your home kitchen—layered with tender pasta, robust meats, rich sauce, and gooey cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to prepare, satisfying to eat, and customizable to your preferences.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping weeknight dinners, or simply indulging your inner carnivore, this dish delivers bold flavor and soul-warming satisfaction in every bite. Try it tonight, and let this become your go-to family-favorite casserole recipe!