Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s so much to adore about Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

1. Hearty and Filling : Packed with multiple types of meat, pasta, and cheese, this dish is a complete meal in one pan.
2. Pizza-Inspired Flavor : Combines all the flavors of a classic pizza—savory meats, tangy sauce, and melted cheese.
3. Customizable : Add veggies, spices, or toppings to tailor it to your taste.
4. One-Pan Wonder : Minimal cleanup makes this dish as convenient as it is delicious.
5. Crowd-Pleasing : Whether you’re feeding kids, adults, or guests, everyone will love this meaty masterpiece.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to this casserole lies in its simple yet bold ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Casserole:

• 8 oz penne or rotini pasta (uncooked)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
• 1 cup pepperoni slices (chopped)
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or homemade sauce)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Topping:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Extra pepperoni slices (for garnish, optional)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to whip up this cheesy, meaty delight? Follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or casserole pan.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Meats

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess grease and return the meat to the skillet.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Stir the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the skillet with the cooked meat. Add the chopped pepperoni and cooked pasta, stirring gently to combine.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the pasta and meat mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly and top with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Arrange extra pepperoni slices on top for added flavor and presentation.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes , or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. If the cheese browns too quickly, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy, meaty goodness!

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Why This Recipe Works So Well

The magic of Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole lies in its balance of textures and flavors. The tender pasta provides a hearty base, while the combination of ground beef, Italian sausage, and pepperoni adds depth and richness. The marinara sauce ties everything together with its tangy, herby notes, and the melted cheese creates a gooey, indulgent finish. Together, these elements create a dish that’s as comforting as it is satisfying.