This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is a cheesy, hearty, and flavor-packed dish that combines all your favorite pizza toppings into a comforting pasta bake! Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and meal prep, this dish is loaded with ground beef, Italian sausage, pepperoni, bacon, and melty cheese—a must-try for pizza lovers!
💛 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Pizza & Pasta in One Dish – The best of both worlds!
✔ Loaded with Meat – A true meat lover’s dream!
✔ Easy & Family-Friendly – A quick and satisfying meal.
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep – Freezer-friendly & reheats well!
📌 Ingredients (Serves 6-8)
🍝 For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
🥩 For the Meat:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ lb Italian sausage, crumbled
- ½ cup pepperoni slices
- ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
🍅 For the Sauce & Seasoning:
- 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice!)
🧀 For the Cheese Topping:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
💡 Optional Additions:
✔ Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or black olives for extra flavor.
✔ Swap Italian sausage for chicken sausage for a lighter version.
✔ Use spicy pepperoni for an extra kick!
🍽 Step-by-Step Instructions
🔥 Step 1: Cook the Pasta
1️⃣ Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2️⃣ Cook the pasta according to package instructions, until al dente.
3️⃣ Drain and set aside.
💡 Don’t overcook! The pasta will continue to cook in the oven.
🥩 Step 2: Prepare the Meat
1️⃣ In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked.
2️⃣ Drain excess fat.
3️⃣ Stir in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).
💡 For extra flavor, add ½ cup diced onions & bell peppers to the meat while cooking!
🍅 Step 3: Mix the Sauce & Pasta
1️⃣ In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Cooked pasta
- Marinara or pizza sauce
- Cooked ground beef & sausage
- Half of the pepperoni slices
- Half of the crumbled bacon
2️⃣ Stir until everything is well coated in sauce.
💡 For a creamier texture, mix in ½ cup ricotta or cream cheese!
🧀 Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
1️⃣ Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2️⃣ Spread the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
3️⃣ Top with:
- Mozzarella cheese
- Cheddar cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Remaining pepperoni slices & bacon
💡 For extra crispy edges, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top!
🔥 Step 5: Bake Until Golden
1️⃣ Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
2️⃣ Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes for a golden, crispy cheese topping!
💡 Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving—this helps the flavors blend!
🍽 Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
1️⃣ Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for extra flavor.
2️⃣ Serve hot with a side salad or garlic bread!
💡 Want a dipping sauce? Serve with ranch, garlic butter, or extra marinara!
🕰️ Recipe Timing & Nutrition
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: ~40 minutes
- Calories: ~480 kcal per serving
- Servings: 6-8
👩🍳 Pro Tips & Variations
✔ Want a Low-Carb Version? – Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
✔ Make It Spicier? – Add spicy Italian sausage, crushed red pepper, or hot sauce.
✔ Extra Creamy? – Stir in ½ cup ricotta or cream cheese into the pasta mixture.
✔ Make It Vegetarian? – Swap meat for mushrooms, spinach, and black olives.
❓ FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready!
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole?
Yes! Freeze before or after baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.