Cheesy Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

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If you’re craving the hearty comfort of pizza but want something a bit more filling and family-style, this Cheesy Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is a knockout option. Packed with gooey cheese, zesty pepperoni, hearty sausage, and a rich tomato sauce, this dish brings all the flavor of a meat lover’s pizza straight to your dinner table in a cozy baked casserole form. It’s indulgent, crowd-pleasing, and ridiculously easy to make—perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend potlucks.

Imagine layers of tender pasta drenched in savory marinara, topped with a generous mix of ground beef and Italian sausage, then smothered with mozzarella and pepperoni slices that crisp up beautifully in the oven. It’s everything you love about pizza, baked into one bubbling, cheesy, irresistible dish. Whether you’re serving a hungry family or just want a delicious dish that makes great leftovers, this recipe will hit the spot.

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Ingredients for Cheesy Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

• 1 lb elbow macaroni or rotini pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
• 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 20–25 pepperoni slices
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
• Olive oil for sautéing

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. Lightly toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking if needed.

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Step 2: Prepare the Meaty Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and cook the ground beef and Italian sausage. Break up the meat with a spatula and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 7–9 minutes. Season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Drain excess grease if necessary.

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Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the marinara or pizza sauce until evenly coated. Add in the cooked meat mixture and half of the shredded mozzarella. Stir to combine thoroughly.

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Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the pasta and meat mixture into the dish and spread evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with Parmesan. Finally, layer the pepperoni slices evenly across the top.

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Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly

Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown on top. If you like crispy pepperoni edges, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes at the end—but watch closely to avoid burning.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired, and enjoy a slice of pizza heaven baked into a casserole!

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Note: Based on approximately 8 servings per casserole.

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 980mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or shells works well in this casserole. Just avoid long noodles like spaghetti.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble it up to 24 hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes, then bake as directed.

What can I use instead of pepperoni?

You can substitute with turkey pepperoni, salami, or even sliced cooked bacon or ham for a different twist.

Is this casserole spicy?

It’s mildly spiced from the sausage and pepperoni. For extra heat, add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes! Mushrooms, bell peppers, black olives, or spinach make great additions. Sauté them first to remove excess moisture before mixing in.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Certainly! Skip the meat and load up on veggies, or use a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version.

How do I keep the cheese from burning on top?

If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil during baking, especially for the last 10 minutes.

What side dishes go well with this casserole?

Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables pair wonderfully for a balanced and satisfying meal.

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