Ingredients
Meats
½ lb (225g) ground beef
½ lb (225g) Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
½ cup pepperoni slices
½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled (optional but recommended)
Sauce & Pasta
2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
8 oz (225g) rotini or penne pasta, cooked al dente and drained
Cheese & Toppings
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar or provolone (optional, for extra richness)
½ cup sliced black olives (optional)
½ cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
Seasonings
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp black pepper
Salt, to taste
Note: Use whole-milk mozzarella for the best melt and flavor.
Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with oil or cooking spray.
2. Cook the Meats
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking into crumbles, until browned and no pink remains (about 6–8 minutes).
Drain excess fat.
Stir in pepperoni and bacon (if using) and cook 1 minute more.
3. Season & Sauce
Add pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir well and simmer for 2–3 minutes to let flavors meld.
4. Combine with Pasta
In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta and meat sauce. Fold in 1 cup of mozzarella (half the total).
5. Assemble the Casserole
Spread mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Top with remaining 1 cup mozzarella, cheddar/provolone (if using), and any optional toppings like olives or mushrooms.
6. Bake to Perfection
Cover loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes.
Remove foil and bake 10–15 minutes more, or until cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden at the edges.
7. Rest & Serve
Let casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing—this helps it hold together for cleaner portions.
Serve hot with a side salad or garlic bread!
Serving Suggestions
Classic: With a crisp Caesar salad and buttery garlic knots
Kid-friendly: Skip olives/mushrooms; add extra cheese
Game day: Cut into squares and serve with ranch or marinara for dipping
Meal prep: Portion into containers for easy, protein-packed lunches
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes! Use your favorite GF rotini or penne.
Can I make this ahead?
Assemble (unbaked), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5–10 minutes to bake time.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Store in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Vegetarian option?
Swap meats for plant-based crumbles and omit pepperoni/bacon.
Allergy Information
Contains: Dairy, wheat, pork, beef
Gluten-free option: Yes (with GF pasta and sauce)
Nut-free: Yes
Vegetarian? No
Always verify labels if managing allergies.
Nutrition Facts
(Per serving, recipe serves 6)
Calories: 580
Protein: 32g
Fat: 30g (Saturated: 14g)
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 980mg
Values may vary based on ingredient brands.
This Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole is the ultimate mashup of two comfort food classics—pizza and pasta—into one irresistible, no-fuss bake. With layers of savory meat, tangy sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with zero complaints. So grab your skillet, boil that pasta, and get ready for a dinner that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.
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