If you’re a fan of loaded, cheesy pizza and hearty baked pasta dishes, this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is about to become your new go-to dinner. It combines everything you love about a classic meat lover’s pizza, savory ground beef, zesty Italian sausage, crispy bacon, spicy pepperoni, rich marinara, and gooey melted cheese, into one warm, satisfying casserole.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this cheesy, meaty masterpiece:
- 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound crumbled Italian sausage
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 2 cups marinara sauce or pizza sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
How to Make Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Meats
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until fully browned and cooked through. Break the meat apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease to prevent the casserole from becoming too oily.
3. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Cooked pasta
- Meat mixture
- Pepperoni
- Bacon
- Marinara or pizza sauce
- Italian seasoning
- Garlic powder
- Red pepper flakes (if using)
Stir until everything is evenly coated in sauce and well mixed.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the pasta mixture into the dish and spread evenly.
Top with:
- Mozzarella cheese
- Cheddar cheese
- Parmesan cheese
Make sure the cheese fully covers the top for that classic golden, bubbly finish.
6. Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
7. Rest and Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes serving easier.
Tips for the Best Pizza Casserole
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and texture.
- Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Drain the meat well to avoid excess grease.
- For a crispier top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end (watch carefully!).
Customization Ideas
Make this casserole your own with these delicious variations:
- Add sautéed mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey
- Use spicy Italian sausage for extra kick
- Add black olives for a true pizza vibe
- Mix in a little cream cheese for extra richness
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze tightly covered for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions until heated through.
The Perfect Comfort Food
This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is hearty, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors in every bite. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone back for seconds—and maybe thirds. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, it’s guaranteed to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- All the flavors of a meat lover’s pizza in an easy baked pasta form
- Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing
- Simple pantry ingredients
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
- Customizable with your favorite pizza toppings
This casserole brings together two comfort food classics—pizza and pasta bake—into one irresistible dish.