Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

Name: Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta (or your favorite pasta); 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 lb Italian sausage; 1 cup pepperoni slices; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 (24 oz) jar pizza sauce; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Lisa

Writer & Blogger

Dinner
April 14, 2025

Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole: A Hearty, Cheesy, and Irresistible Comfort Dish

1. Introduction

If you’re craving the delicious flavors of pizza but want something more substantial than a traditional slice, this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is the perfect solution! This mouthwatering dish combines all your favorite pizza toppings with tender pasta and melted cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner recipe to feed your family or need a crowd-pleasing dish for your next gathering, this casserole delivers on both flavor and convenience.

What makes this recipe so special is its versatility – you can customize it with your favorite meats and toppings just like you would with a pizza. The layers of pasta, savory meats, and gooey cheese create a texture that’s even more satisfying than traditional pizza. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

2. Ingredients

To make this scrumptious Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole, you’ll need simple ingredients that pack maximum flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

12 oz penne pasta (or your favorite pasta shape – rotini or ziti work great too)
1 lb ground beef (85% lean works best for flavor)
1/2 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot, depending on your preference)
1 cup pepperoni slices (regular or mini work well)

Cheese and Sauce:

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
1 (24 oz) jar pizza sauce (or homemade if you prefer)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended)

Seasonings:

1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For more delicious beef recipes using similar ingredients, check out our collection!

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Brown the Meats

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 9-10 minutes). Drain well and set aside.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook until the meat is no longer pink (about 7-8 minutes), then drain any excess grease. This step is crucial for getting the perfect texture in your baked casserole.

Layered pasta, ground beef, and sausage in a baking dish for Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole.

Step 2: Layer the Pasta and Meats

In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread half of the cooked pasta evenly across the bottom. Top with half of the meat mixture, distributing it as evenly as possible. Arrange half of the pepperoni slices in a single layer over the meat. Sprinkle with 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese.

This layering technique ensures every bite has the perfect balance of pasta, meat, and cheese – just like your favorite pizza! For more layered dish inspiration, check out our similar recipe from Stuck On Sweet.

Shredded mozzarella cheese being added to Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole.

Step 3: Add the Pizza Sauce

Pour half of the pizza sauce over the cheese layer, using the back of a spoon to spread it evenly. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, meat, and pepperoni. Top with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, then finish by pouring the rest of the pizza sauce over everything.

Pro tip: If you love extra saucy dishes, you might want to add an extra 1/2 cup of sauce. The sauce helps keep the casserole moist and flavorful as it bakes.

Pizza sauce being poured over Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil (this helps the cheese melt evenly without drying out) and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if using, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and starting to turn golden brown.

Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving – this allows the layers to set slightly for easier serving. The wait will be worth it when you see that perfect cheese pull!

Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole with pepperoni being placed in the oven.

4. Tips for the Best Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

Use high-quality meats: Opt for lean ground beef (85/15 blend) and flavorful Italian sausage (remove from casings if using links) for the best taste. The quality of your meat really makes a difference in this dish.
Customize your toppings: While this is a meat lovers version, feel free to add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, black olives, or even pineapple if you’re feeling adventurous. For more topping ideas, browse our salad recipes for vegetable inspiration.
Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole completely (except for baking) up to 24 hours in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
Freeze for later: This dish freezes exceptionally well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cheese variations: While mozzarella is classic, try blending in some provolone, fontina, or asiago for extra flavor complexity.

5. Serving Suggestions

This hearty Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is substantial enough to be a complete meal on its own, but here are some delicious pairing ideas:

A crisp green salad with Italian dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole
Garlic bread or breadsticks for dipping into the cheesy layers
Roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini add nutrition and color to your plate
For a fun appetizer, serve small portions alongside our favorite soup recipes for a complete Italian-inspired meal

6. Nutritional Information

(Per serving, based on 8 generous portions)

Calories: 450
Protein: 25g (excellent source for muscle building and repair)
Carbohydrates: 35g (provides energy for your day)
Fat: 22g (includes healthy fats from the cheese and meats)
Fiber: 3g (helps with digestion)
Calcium: 25% DV (great for bone health)
Iron: 15% DV (important for blood health)

For those watching their intake, you can make lighter modifications like using turkey pepperoni, lean ground turkey, and part-skim cheeses without sacrificing too much flavor.

7. Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it adapts to different dietary needs and preferences:

Vegetarian option: Replace the meats with plant-based alternatives (like Beyond Meat crumbles and vegetarian pepperoni) and load up on vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions.
Spicy kick: Use hot Italian sausage, add red pepper flakes to the sauce, or include some sliced jalapeños between the layers.
Gluten-free: Substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta (many brands now make excellent GF penne) and ensure your pizza sauce is gluten-free certified.
Low-carb/Keto: Replace the pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.
Breakfast version: For a morning twist, try our breakfast casserole recipes using similar techniques.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While penne works great because its shape holds the sauce well, you can use rotini, ziti, rigatoni, or even macaroni. Just adjust cooking times according to package directions.

Q: How long does this casserole last in the fridge?
A: Properly stored in an airtight container, leftovers will keep for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish covered in a 350°F oven until heated through.

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Layer the ingredients in your slow cooker (no need to precook the pasta – it will cook in the sauce) and cook on low for 4-5 hours. Add the cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Q: Can I substitute the beef with chicken?
A: Definitely! Ground chicken or turkey would work well. For more chicken recipe ideas, check out our collection.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through (about 15-20 minutes). You can add a splash of water or extra sauce if it seems dry. Microwave works too – cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.

9. Conclusion

This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole truly is the best of both worlds – all the flavors you love from pizza combined with the heartiness of a baked pasta dish. It’s become a staple in our house because it’s:

Family-friendly (even picky eaters love it!)
Perfect for potlucks and gatherings
Great for meal prep and leftovers
Customizable to suit any taste preferences
Comfort food at its finest

Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner solution or planning your next game day spread, this casserole is sure to become a new favorite. The layers of pasta, meat, cheese, and sauce create a texture and flavor combination that’s irresistible. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover meats and cheeses you might have in your fridge.

For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, be sure to check out our about page to learn more about our cooking philosophy, or if you’re interested in working with us, we’d love to hear from you!

Now that you have all the tips and tricks for making the perfect Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole, it’s time to get cooking! Don’t forget to save this recipe and share your creations with us. Happy cooking, and enjoy your pizza casserole masterpiece!