Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for anyone who loves bold flavors, hearty portions, and easy family-style meals. It takes everything you love about a classic meat-loaded pizza and transforms it into a warm, cheesy, oven-baked casserole that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings. With layers of pasta, rich pizza sauce, melty cheese, and plenty of savory meats, this dish is filling, satisfying, and guaranteed to please even the hungriest crowd. It’s simple to prepare, uses familiar ingredients, and delivers that irresistible pizza taste in every bite.

Ingredients

• 12 oz rotini pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup sliced pepperoni
• 1 cup cooked sausage (Italian or breakfast sausage)
• 2 cups pizza sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or basil, for garnish

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini until just al dente. Drain well and set aside. Slightly undercooking the pasta helps it hold its texture during baking.

Step 2: Brown the Meats
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease, then stir in the cooked sausage and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Build the Sauce
Add the pizza sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder to the meat mixture. Stir well and let it simmer for 3–5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend and deepen.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce. Mix until evenly coated. Spread the mixture into an even layer.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Toppings
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the casserole, followed by Parmesan cheese. Arrange the pepperoni slices on top for that classic pizza finish.

Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.

Step 7: Serve
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.

Variations

• Add cooked bacon or ham for extra meat flavor
• Use a blend of cheeses like provolone or cheddar
• Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for balance
• Swap rotini with penne or ziti

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a simple green salad
• Pair with garlic bread or breadsticks
• Add crushed red pepper on the side
• Serve as a main dish for parties

Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Info

Calories, fat, and protein will vary depending on meat and cheese choices, but this casserole is a high-protein, filling meal ideal for active families.

Conclusion

Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is a crowd-pleasing, hearty meal that combines the bold flavors of pizza with the comfort of a baked pasta dish. Easy to customize, simple to prepare, and incredibly satisfying, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your regular dinner rotation.