When the craving for pizza strikes and you’re in the mood for a hearty, satisfying meal, this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is here to save the day. Loaded with all your favorite meaty toppings and cheesy goodness, it’s the perfect family-friendly dinner that feels indulgent without breaking the bank. Seriously, it’s like a pizza party and a pasta bake had a delicious baby.
Why You’ll Love This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole Recipe
If you’ve been looking for the ultimate meat lovers pizza casserole recipe, you just hit the jackpot. It’s quick, filling, and perfect for busy nights, potlucks, or anytime you need a comforting meal. Plus, it’s super customizable. Prefer a meat lovers pizza casserole with pasta? Done. Want a keto meat lovers pizza casserole? Easy swaps ahead!
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Full measurements are listed in the recipe card below!)
- Pasta: Penne or rotini work great to hold all that meaty goodness.
- Ground beef: Classic and flavorful.
- Italian sausage: Adds that irresistible spicy kick.
- Pepperoni slices: A pizza must-have.
- Cooked bacon: Because bacon makes everything better.
- Pizza sauce: Rich, tomatoey perfection.
- Garlic powder and Italian seasoning: For a burst of flavor.
- Shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese: Melty, gooey goodness.
- Black olives and red pepper flakes (optional): For extra pizzazz!
How to Make Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole
Step 1: Prep the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Meats
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until fully browned. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Mix it Up
In the skillet, stir in the pizza sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Add in the cooked pasta, half the pepperoni, half the bacon, and half the cheese. Mix well.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, followed by the rest of the pepperoni and bacon. Sprinkle on black olives and red pepper flakes if you’re using them.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melty and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before digging in!
Estimated Nutrition and Prep Time
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 520
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
Note: For a low carb meat lovers pizza casserole, use zucchini noodles or low-carb pasta!
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
Tips for the Best Pizza Casserole Meat Lovers Style
- Cheese it up: Don’t be shy with the cheese. Extra cheese = extra smiles.
- Customize your toppings: Swap in mushrooms, green peppers, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
- Make it low-carb: Use cauliflower rice or keto pasta to create a keto meat lovers pizza casserole.
- Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes if you like it hot!
How to Serve Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole
Serve this beauty straight from the oven with a side of garlic bread, a simple green salad, or even some roasted veggies to balance out all that cheesy, meaty goodness. It’s hearty enough to stand alone, but a crisp salad adds a nice touch!
Preparing Ahead and Storing
You can easily prep this ultimate meat lovers pizza casserole ahead of time. Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add an extra 5-10 minutes to your baking time.
Leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This casserole also freezes beautifully just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until hot and bubbly.
A Little Storytime
The first time I made this meat lovers pizza tot casserole version (yes, I swapped pasta for tater tots!), my family looked at me like I had just won a Michelin star. Kids, husband, even picky Aunt Carol everyone went back for seconds. It’s now a forever request at family gatherings.
FAQs About Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole
Can I make a meat lovers pizza casserole with biscuits instead of pasta?
Absolutely! Just cut canned biscuit dough into small pieces and scatter them on top before baking.
What’s the best pasta to use?
Rotini or penne hold up well and grab onto all the meaty, cheesy sauce goodness.
Can I make a low carb or keto meat lovers pizza casserole?
Definitely! Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or keto-friendly pasta alternatives.
Can I use tater tots instead of pasta?
Yes, for a delicious meat lovers tator tot pizza casserole twist! Arrange frozen tots on top before baking.
Can I add veggies?
Of course! Mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or onions are all delicious add-ins.
How spicy is this casserole?
It’s mild as written, but you can crank up the heat with more red pepper flakes or spicy sausage.
Is this like the meat lovers pizza casserole plain chicken version?
Yes, very similar! You can even add shredded cooked chicken if you want.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave. If frozen, thaw overnight first for best results.
Conclusion
If you’re dreaming of something cheesy, hearty, and downright satisfying, this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is calling your name. Whether you’re making a meat lovers pizza rice casserole, trying a low carb version, or going full indulgent with a meat lovers pizza casserole with biscuits, there’s a version for everyone. Trust me, your family (and your taste buds) will thank you!
Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- 9×13 Baking Dish
- Mixing Spoon
Ingredients
Pasta and Meats
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 0.5 lb Italian sausage
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon crumbled
Sauce and Cheese
- 2 cups pizza sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional Toppings
- 1/4 cup black olives optional
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Stir pizza sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning into the cooked meat. Add drained pasta, half of the pepperoni, half of the bacon, and half of the cheeses. Mix well.
- Transfer mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese, pepperoni, and bacon. Add olives and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.