Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic
Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole combines the best elements of pizza and casserole, offering a hearty dish that satisfies cravings for a cheesy, meaty, and flavorful meal. This easy-to-make recipe is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Versatile and Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to your taste preferences.
- Quick Prep and Bake: Perfect for busy weeknights.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: Combines popular pizza toppings with a comforting casserole base.
For similar cheesy delights, explore Dorito Chicken Casserole.
Ingredients for Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole
Core Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 cup chopped pepperoni
- 3 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Optional Add-Ins
- Crumbled bacon for added flavor.
- Sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for a veggie twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Meat:
- In a skillet, cook ground beef and Italian sausage until browned. Drain excess fat and season with garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Add marinara sauce to the cooked meat and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Layer the Casserole:
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half the cooked pasta, meat sauce, and cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with cheese on top.
- Bake:
- Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
For a variation, check out Taco Bell-Inspired Mexican Pizza Casserole.
Tips for Perfect Casserole
- Enhance the Sauce: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for spice or a splash of heavy cream for richness.
- Choose Your Pasta: Short pasta like penne or rotini holds the sauce well and adds texture.
- Customizable Toppings: Garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of parmesan for added flavor.
Variations to Try
Vegetarian Pizza Casserole
- Replace meats with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach.
Low-Carb Option
- Substitute pasta with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Extra Cheesy Delight
- Mix in ricotta or cream cheese between layers for a creamier casserole.
Pair this dish with Sheetpan Pancakes for a fun and easy family meal.
Storage and FAQs
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Assemble without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought pizza sauce?
Yes, pizza sauce can replace marinara for a more authentic pizza flavor.
2. Can this casserole be made gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure the marinara sauce is gluten-free.
3. What other toppings work well?
Try black olives, green peppers, or jalapeños for added variety.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
Internal Linking Opportunities
- Dorito Chicken Casserole: Another creative casserole option.
- Taco Bell-Inspired Mexican Pizza Casserole: A bold twist on the classic casserole.
- Sheetpan Pancakes: A fun breakfast idea to pair with your casserole dinner.
Why You’ll Love Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole
This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is not just a meal—it’s an experience. With its savory blend of meats, cheeses, and pasta, it offers the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Explore more comfort food recipes at ExoRecipes.
