Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole

by

This hearty Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole combines all your favorite pizza toppings with layers of pasta, cheese, and rich marinara sauce. It’s a crowd-pleasing comfort food that’s easier than making individual pizzas – perfect for weeknight dinners or game day gatherings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ All the pizza flavors in easy casserole form
✔ Packed with protein from multiple meats
✔ Customizable with your favorite toppings
✔ Great for meal prep – reheats beautifully

Ingredients

For the Casserole

  • 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
  • 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
  • ½ lb ground beef
  • ½ lb pepperoni slices (divided)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 24 oz marinara sauce
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Garnish

  • Fresh basil or parsley
  • Extra Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook pasta al dente (1 minute less than package directions), drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Meats

In a large skillet over medium heat:

  1. Cook sausage and beef until browned (about 8 minutes)
  2. Add onion and garlic, cook 3 more minutes
  3. Drain excess grease

3. Assemble the Casserole

  1. In the skillet, stir in marinara, tomatoes, seasonings, and half the pepperoni
  2. Fold in cooked pasta until well coated
  3. Transfer to a 9×13″ baking dish
  4. Top with cheeses and remaining pepperoni

4. Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and cheese is golden. Broil 1-2 minutes for extra browning if desired.

5. Serve

Let rest 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan.

Expert Tips

🔹 Meat variations: Try adding cooked bacon, ham, or ground turkey
🔹 Vegetable boost: Mix in sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers
🔹 Shortcut: Use pre-cooked meats to save time
🔹 Make ahead: Assemble up to 1 day before baking

Serving Suggestions

  • With garlic bread and a crisp green salad
  • Topped with dollops of ricotta cheese
  • Paired with roasted vegetables

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Up to 4 days in airtight container
  • Freeze: Up to 3 months (thaw overnight before reheating)
  • Reheat: 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions

This hearty casserole brings pizza night to the next level! 🍕 Let me know if you’d like a low-carb or spicier version!

Leave a Comment