Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that pleases everyone at the table, this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is just the ticket! It combines all the savory goodness of your favorite meat-loaded pizza into a hearty casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. There’s something undeniably comforting about digging into a warm, cheesy dish that brings everyone together, whether it’s game day or just a regular Tuesday night.

What makes this recipe special is how easy it is to whip up. You’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying delicious bites with your loved ones. Trust me, once you try it, this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole will quickly become a go-to favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll have dinner ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves pizza! This casserole puts a fun twist on the classic dish that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. Perfect for meal prep!
• Deliciously satisfying: Loaded with meats and cheese, this casserole is sure to fill you up and keep you coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to create a delicious meal right at home. Gather these items before you begin cooking your Meat Lovers Pizza 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to tweak it based on your preferences or what you have on hand:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to sneak in extra nutrients.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or provolone for added flavor.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or spicy sausage to kick things up a notch.

How to Make Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 425ºF and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This ensures your casserole cooks evenly and doesn’t stick!

Step 2: Cook the Meats

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and sausage until they’re browned and no longer pink. This step is crucial because browning adds flavor and texture to your casserole. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat afterward!

Step 3: Add the Flavorings

Next, stir in the chopped turkey pepperoni, flour, and 3 teaspoons of Italian seasoning into your skillet. Mixing these ingredients well helps create a thick sauce base that will hold everything together beautifully.

Step 4: Combine with Sauce

Now it’s time to stir in that rich tomato basil pasta sauce. Bring everything to a boil before removing from heat—this brings out all those delicious flavors while thickening the mixture slightly.

Step 5: Assemble Your Casserole

Spoon that hearty meat mixture into your prepared baking dish and sprinkle on 1½ cups of mozzarella cheese. This layer of cheese adds richness that perfectly complements the savory meats.

Step 6: Top with Dough

Unroll the refrigerated pizza dough carefully over the top of your cheesy layer. Don’t worry if it doesn’t cover perfectly; it will bake nicely together!

Step 7: Add Seasoning & Cheese

Brush the crust with olive oil for that golden finish. Sprinkle with the remaining Italian seasoning along with another half cup of mozzarella cheese and some grated Parmesan for an extra cheesy topping.

Step 8: Bake It Up

Pop your dish into the oven and bake for about 20–25 minutes until the crust turns golden brown and looks irresistible.

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy

Let it cool for just a few minutes before serving—this helps set everything up nicely. Then dig in! You’ve made yourself an incredible Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole that’s sure to impress!

Pro Tips for Making Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

Creating the perfect Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole can be a breeze with a few helpful tips!

• Choose lean meats: Opting for lean ground beef and turkey sausage helps reduce excess fat while still delivering that satisfying meaty flavor. This makes the dish not only delicious but also a bit healthier.
• Don’t skip the seasoning: Adding Italian seasoning is crucial—it enhances the overall flavor profile of the casserole. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your personal preference for herbs and spices!
• Layer wisely: When spooning the meat mixture into the baking dish, make sure to evenly distribute it before adding cheese. This ensures every bite is packed with deliciousness.
• Watch the crust closely: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. You want that crust to be golden brown without overcooking—which can lead to dryness.
• Let it cool before serving: Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to slice and serve while maintaining its structure.

How to Serve Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

This hearty casserole is not only comforting but also visually appealing when served right! Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the casserole.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: If you like a little heat, offering crushed red pepper on the side allows guests to customize their spice level.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is a classic pairing that adds crunch and flavor, making each bite of casserole even more delightful.
• Caesar salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole. The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons balance out the meal beautifully.
• Steamed vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans bring a dose of nutrition and color to your plate, rounding out this hearty dish.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a crunchy texture and zesty taste that perfectly complements the savory notes of the pizza casserole.

With these serving suggestions in mind, you’re all set to enjoy your Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole in style! Whether it’s for family dinner or entertaining friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the casserole cool completely.
• Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC).
• Cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out.
• Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. For individual servings, you can microwave them for about 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I use different meats in the Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out ground beef or sausage with your favorite meats, such as chicken or turkey. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on what you choose.

How can I customize my Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole?

You can add any of your favorite pizza toppings, such as bell peppers, olives, or mushrooms. Just chop them finely and mix them into the meat mixture for a delicious twist!

Can I make the Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the meats with plant-based alternatives like veggie crumbles or mushrooms. You can also load it up with extra vegetables for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings together all the wonderful flavors of pizza in a hearty casserole form. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or enjoying leftovers during a cozy night in, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Happy cooking!