Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole Recipe

Get ready to meet your new favorite weeknight comfort food: the Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole. Imagine all the bold, smoky, and cheesy flavors of your favorite pizza topping explosion, but tucked into a bubbly, pasta-packed casserole that’s hearty enough to feed a crowd. It’s an irresistibly rich dish full of Italian sausage, pepperoni, bacon, and a golden blanket of gooey cheese that simply calls out for seconds. If you’re a fan of family-friendly meals with big, satisfying flavors, you’re absolutely going to fall for this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole.

Ingredients You’ll Need

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s nothing fussy about the ingredients in this casserole, but each one plays an essential role in delivering that craveable, classic pizza taste. From the chewy rotini pasta to the trio of tender meats and melty cheese, you’ll notice a mouthwatering balance of textures and flavors in every bite.

• Rotini Pasta: The spiral shape holds onto the sauce and melty cheese, so every forkful is loaded with flavor.
• Olive Oil: Sautéing with olive oil gives depth and a hint of Mediterranean flair.
• Ground Beef: Adds hearty richness and that unmistakable pizza-parlor aroma.
• Italian Sausage (casings removed): Packs in a hit of herb and spice for that classic pizzeria taste.
• Diced Pepperoni: Brings smoky, peppery flavor and a touch of spice to every bite.
• Cooked and Crumbled Bacon: Infuses a salty, savory crunch that makes this casserole truly irresistible.
• Onion (diced): Sweetens and mellows as it cooks, giving a savory backbone to the sauce.
• Garlic (minced): Adds that irresistible aromatic punch every pizza-inspired dish needs.
• Marinara or Pizza Sauce: The tangy tomato base that ties it all together and coats the pasta perfectly.
• Italian Seasoning: Delivers herby brightness that lifts all those meaty flavors.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into gooey bliss for the signature pizza cheese pull.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds nutty, salty depth and a beautiful golden top.
• Salt and Pepper: For perfect seasoning—taste as you go and adjust to your liking.
• Sliced Black Olives and Extra Pepperoni (optional): Add color, texture, and even more pizza pizzazz on top.

How to Make Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pasta

First things first: get your oven warming up to 375°F so it’s ready for bubbling, cheesy action. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini according to package directions until it’s just al dente—this keeps it pleasantly chewy once baked. Drain it well and set aside; you’re halfway to casserole greatness already.

Step 2: Sauté the Base Flavors

Grab your favorite large skillet and swirl in the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and let it cook gently until it’s soft and fragrant, then stir in the garlic. Give it just a minute—enough to release those mouthwatering aromas that mean something delicious is on the way.

Step 3: Brown the Meats

Add the ground beef and Italian sausage straight into the skillet, breaking everything up as you go. Let the meats sizzle together until browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally. Once browned, drain the excess grease so your casserole isn’t heavy—just rich and satisfying.

Step 4: Build the Pizza Party

Next in: diced pepperoni and crumbled bacon. Stir them into the skillet, then cascade in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until the kitchen smells like your favorite pizza shop on a Friday night.

Step 5: Combine and Assemble

Add the cooked rotini to your savory meat and sauce mixture, stirring until every spiral is deliciously coated. Spoon this irresistible tangle into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly, making sure every bite is packed with all the good bits.

Step 6: Cheese It Up and Bake

Sprinkle the casserole generously with shredded mozzarella and then with grated Parmesan for that classic, golden pizza topping. This is your moment to get creative—add extra pepperoni, a handful of sliced black olives, or any favorite toppings you crave. Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and tantalizingly browned at the edges.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once golden and fragrant, let your Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole rest for 5 minutes before digging in. This quick pause lets everything set slightly for perfect, scoopable servings every time.

How to Serve Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

Garnishes

There’s nothing like a finishing flourish! I love scattering extra pepperoni slices and black olives across the top for that authentic pizza shop look. A sprig of fresh basil or a dusting of chopped parsley can also add a pop of color and herby aroma, while a pinch of red pepper flakes is perfect for anyone who likes a little heat.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a meal in its own right, but it’s even better when served alongside a crisp, green salad—think arugula, romaine, or mixed baby greens with a zippy vinaigrette to balance the richness. Fresh garlic bread or breadsticks are perfect for soaking up the extra sauce! For a lighter pairing, roasted vegetables or a cup of homemade tomato soup add a cozy touch.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole to the next level by serving it family-style in a deep dish or cast-iron pan for rustic appeal. Try portioning it into individual ramekins for a dinner party, or let everyone build their own with bowls of favorite toppings at the table. However you serve it, a big spoon and plenty of napkins are a must—things might get saucy!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is a gift you’ll look forward to! Once the casserole has cooled, cover it tightly or transfer to airtight containers before refrigerating. It keeps beautifully for up to four days, making it perfect for lunches, quick dinners, or sneaky midnight snacks.

Freezing

For stress-free meal planning, assemble the casserole but hold off on baking. Cover tightly with foil and freeze; it’ll stay fresh-tasting for up to three months. When you’re ready for a hearty meal, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed. This casserole also freezes well in individual portions, so you can pull out just what you need.

Reheating

To bring back those cheesy, melty layers, reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, until warmed through (about 15–20 minutes). For smaller portions, the microwave works just fine—cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 45-second bursts to keep the pasta from drying out. Either way, you’ll be rewarded with all that comforting flavor you loved on the first night.

FAQs

Can I make this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes straight from fridge to oven.

What other meats can I use in this casserole?

This recipe is super flexible! Try swapping in Canadian bacon, cooked chicken, or even spicy chorizo for a different twist. Turkey sausage is a great lighter option, too—customize it to match your pizza cravings.

Can I make Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole gluten free?

Yes! Substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta for regular rotini and make sure your sauce, meats, and additives are all gluten free. The result is just as satisfying and rich as the original.

Does this casserole work as leftovers for meal prep?

Definitely. Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole holds up well in the fridge and reheats beautifully, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. Divide it into individual containers for effortless grab-and-go lunches or dinners.

Do I need a specific type Main Course

Mozzarella is a must for that classic pizza pull, but feel free to branch out! Try mixing in provolone for extra melt, or even a bit of smoked gouda or fontina for complexity and richness. As long as you have a mix of gooey and flavorful cheeses, you really can’t go wrong.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dinner that packs flavor, comfort, and fun into every bite, you simply can’t go wrong with Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings the best of pizza night and pasta night together, all in one dish. Give it a try—you and your tablemates are in for a seriously cheesy, meaty treat!

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