Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

If you’re looking for a dish that combines the comforting flavors of pizza with the heartiness of a casserole, then this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is just what you need! This recipe has quickly become a favorite in our home because it’s not only delicious, but it also brings everyone together at the table. Imagine layers of seasoned meat, gooey cheese, and a crispy crust, all baked to perfection. It’s the kind of dish that makes busy weeknights feel special or adds a spark to family gatherings.

The best part? It’s incredibly simple to whip up! Whether it’s game day or a casual dinner with loved ones, this casserole will satisfy even the hungriest appetites. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: With minimal prep and cook time, this casserole is perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves pizza! This dish takes that classic appeal and makes it even more fun.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when ready to serve.
• Flavor-packed goodness: Each bite is filled with savory meats and melted cheese that will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome items that come together beautifully to create this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole.

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 lb beef sausage
• 1 cup chopped turkey pepperoni
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 4 tsp Italian seasoning, divided
• 1 (26-oz) jar tomato basil pasta sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 (13.8-oz) can refrigerated pizza crust dough
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 3 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

Variations

This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or turkey instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or provolone for a unique twist.
• Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or spicy sausage if you like some heat!

How to Make Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 425ºF. A hot oven ensures that our casserole bakes evenly and develops that lovely golden crust we all crave. While that’s warming up, grab your baking dish and lightly spray it with cooking spray so nothing sticks.

Step 2: Cook the Meats

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, combine your ground beef and sausage. Cook until they’re nicely browned and no longer pink. This step is crucial as browning enhances the flavor. Once cooked, drain any excess fat so your casserole isn’t greasy.

Step 3: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Next, stir in the chopped turkey pepperoni, flour, and 3 teaspoons of Italian seasoning into the skillet with your meats. The flour helps thicken everything up while the seasoning adds that classic pizza flavor we adore. Stir it well until everything is combined!

Step 4: Mix in the Sauce

Now, pour in your tomato basil pasta sauce and bring everything to a boil. This step infuses all those delicious flavors together. Once boiling, remove from heat and set aside—this mixture smells heavenly!

Step 5: Assemble Your Casserole

Spoon your meat mixture into the prepared baking dish and top it off with a generous layer of mozzarella cheese—about one-and-a-half cups should do it! This melty layer will hold everything together beautifully.

Step 6: Prepare the Crust

Unroll your pizza dough carefully over the cheese layer. Don’t worry if it doesn’t cover perfectly; we want those rustic edges! Brush the dough with olive oil for extra richness and sprinkle on the remaining Italian seasoning along with half a cup of mozzarella cheese and Parmesan for an irresistible finish.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Pop your casserole into the preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes. Keep an eye on it; we want that crust to turn golden brown while cooking through beautifully!

Step 8: Cool & Serve

Once baked to perfection, allow your casserole to cool for just a few minutes before serving. This short wait lets everything settle so each slice stays intact—and trust me, you’ll want those perfect slices!

Now gather around with family or friends and enjoy every cheesy bite of this delightful Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole!

Pro Tips for Making Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is not only delicious but also easy to customize, so here are some pro tips to make it even better!

• Use lean meats: Opting for lean ground beef and turkey sausage allows you to enjoy the rich flavors without excessive grease, making your casserole healthier and more enjoyable.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives. This flexibility lets you cater the dish to your family’s tastes while ensuring a unique experience every time.
• Let it cool before serving: Allowing the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking helps it set up nicely, making it easier to cut and serve without falling apart.
• Make ahead for busy nights: You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready for an easy weeknight meal!
• Reheat leftovers properly: If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave. This keeps the crust crispy and prevents it from getting soggy.

How to Serve Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

Presenting your Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole in a delightful way can enhance the dining experience! Here are some fun ideas on how to serve this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: Chopped fresh basil adds a burst of color and a refreshing flavor that complements the richness of the casserole.
• Red pepper flakes: For those who like a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top just before serving for an extra kick.
• Chopped green onions: A sprinkle of chopped green onions gives a nice crunch and brightens up the overall appearance.

Side Dishes

• Caesar salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty casserole.
• Garlic bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for an extra element of comfort; it’s perfect for mopping up that delicious sauce.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots add color and nutrition while balancing out the meal.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a nice crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the casserole, making each bite more enjoyable.

Enjoy creating this satisfying dish along with these serving suggestions; your family will love gathering around this comforting meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is perfect for meal prep! Its hearty nature means it can be made ahead of time and stored for busy weeknights, ensuring you always have a comforting dish ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool completely after baking.
• Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2–3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC).
• Cover with foil and heat for about 20–25 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

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

Absolutely! This casserole is great for prepping in advance. You can assemble it a day ahead and simply bake it when you’re ready to enjoy a satisfying meal.

What can I substitute in the Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole?

If you want to customize the recipe, consider using chicken sausage or adding your favorite veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms. It’s all about making it your own!

How do I store leftover Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2-3 months.

Can I use different cheeses in my Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole?

Certainly! Feel free to mix and match cheeses. Cheddar or provolone would work beautifully alongside mozzarella, giving you that extra cheesy goodness.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole brings joy and comfort to your dinner table! It’s such a versatile dish that not only satisfies cravings but also makes leftovers easy and delicious. Enjoy making this recipe and sharing it with loved ones—it’s bound to become a favorite. Happy cooking!