Ultimate Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole – Easy & Delicious!
There’s something truly comforting about a hearty casserole that brings everyone together, and this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is no exception. Imagine all the flavors you love from a loaded pizza—savory meats, melty cheese, and a rich tomato sauce—all baked into one delicious dish. This recipe has become a beloved favorite in my home, perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something filling and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or need a comforting meal for your family, this casserole delivers. It’s easy to prepare, and the best part? It feeds a crowd! So grab your apron, and let’s dive into making this delightful dish that will surely become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Satisfying comfort food: This casserole combines all your favorite pizza flavors into one dish that feels like a warm hug.
– Quick preparation: With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
– Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, this dish is sure to impress meat lovers of all ages.
– Cheesy goodness: Packed with layers of gooey mozzarella and savory Parmesan cheese, every bite is utterly delicious.
– Versatile option: You can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step toward creating this mouthwatering Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:
For the 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
One of the great things about casseroles is their flexibility! Here are some fun variations you might consider trying:
– Swap the protein: Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option while still keeping that meaty flavor.
– Add veggies: Sneak in some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture.
– Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or provolone for a unique twist on flavor.
– Spice it up: If you enjoy some heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños to kick things up a notch.
How to Make Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425ºF and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This initial step ensures your casserole bakes evenly and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Meats
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and sausage until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy. This step is crucial as it builds the foundation of flavor for our dish.
Step 3: Add Flavorful Ingredients
Add chopped turkey pepperoni, flour, and 3 teaspoons of Italian seasoning to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined. The flour helps thicken the sauce while infusing it with even more flavor.
Step 4: Incorporate the Sauce
Stir in the tomato basil pasta sauce and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat. This step adds moisture and richness to our casserole while ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Spoon the meat mixture into your prepared baking dish and top with 1½ cups of mozzarella cheese. This layer provides that cheesy goodness we all crave when thinking about pizza!
Step 6: Layer on the Dough
Unroll the pizza dough carefully over the cheese layer. It’s important to cover it evenly so that every slice has that delightful crusty top we love on pizzas.
Step 7: Finish with Toppings
Brush the crust with olive oil, then sprinkle with remaining Italian seasoning, another ½ cup of mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese. These toppings add flavor and create an irresistible golden-brown crust as it bakes.
Step 8: Bake It Up!
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on it as baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven.
Step 9: Cool & Serve
Allow your casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This waiting time allows everything to set up nicely so you can cut perfect squares of cheesy goodness!
Enjoy every delicious bite of this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole—a guaranteed hit that’s sure to become part of your go-to recipe collection!
Pro Tips for Making Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole
Making a delicious Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is easier than you think! With a few handy tips, you can elevate this dish and make it even more comforting. Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time:
– Use lean meats: Opt for lean ground beef and turkey pepperoni to keep the dish flavorful yet healthier. This helps balance the richness of the sausage while still delivering the classic meat lover’s taste.
– Customize your toppings: Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the meat mixture. This will add extra flavor and texture, making it even more satisfying.
– Don’t skip the cheese: For maximum gooeyness, use a good quality mozzarella cheese. You can also mix in some cheddar for an extra cheesy layer that melts beautifully.
– Let it rest before serving: After baking, allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. This lets the layers set up nicely, making it easier to serve.
– Experiment with spices: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or garlic powder to the meat mixture for an added kick!
How to Serve Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole
Serving your Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole can be as fun as making it! This dish is perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying at home with family. Here are some great ways to present this hearty meal:
Garnishes
– Fresh basil: A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil on top adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
– Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, offering these on the side lets everyone customize their spice level.
– Grated Parmesan cheese: A light dusting of Parmesan just before serving enhances the cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
– Garden salad: A crisp garden salad pairs well with the richness of the casserole, adding a refreshing contrast.
– Garlic bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a delightful way to scoop up every last bit.
– Steamed vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans provide a healthy touch and balance out the meal.
– Italian-style coleslaw: This tangy side dish complements the flavors of pizza while adding crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
If you’re planning for busy nights or potlucks, making this casserole ahead of time is a great idea! Here’s how you can prepare and store it efficiently:
Storing Leftovers
– Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
– Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat as needed.
Freezing
– To freeze, let the casserole cool completely and cut it into portions.
– Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will last up to 2–3 months in the freezer.
Reheating
– To reheat from refrigerated storage, preheat your oven to 350ºF and bake until warmed through (about 15–20 minutes).
– For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or microwave individual servings until hot.
FAQs
If you’re curious about specific aspects of this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole recipe or have questions about substitutions or cooking techniques, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:
Can I substitute other meats?
Absolutely! You can swap out ground beef or sausage for chicken or turkey if you prefer. Just make sure they’re cooked thoroughly before mixing them into your casserole.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The casserole is ready when the crust is golden brown and cooked through. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, it’s done!
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit all meats and replace them with plenty of vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, olives, and mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re excited to try this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole! It’s such a delightful way to enjoy all those wonderful pizza flavors in one cozy dish. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or bringing something special to share with friends, this casserole is sure to impress everyone at the table. Enjoy every bite!
Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425ºF and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and sausage until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped turkey pepperoni, flour, and 3 teaspoons of Italian seasoning to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
- Stir in the tomato basil pasta sauce and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat.
- Spoon the meat mixture into your prepared baking dish and top with 1½ cups of mozzarella cheese.
- Unroll the pizza dough carefully over the cheese layer.
- Brush the crust with olive oil, then sprinkle with remaining Italian seasoning, another ½ cup of mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and cooked through.
- Allow your casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
