Cooking method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat. Remember to drain excess grease for a healthier dish.
- Toss in the diced onion and pepperoni, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the onion is tender.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Let everything simmer for about 5 minutes.
- While that simmers, cook the pasta according to package instructions until it reaches al dente, then drain it.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pasta, meat sauce mixture, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix it all well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, topping it off with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Once done, let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
To maximize your enjoyment of Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole, serve it hot from the oven, garnished with freshly chopped basil or parsley. Consider pairing it with a crisp garden salad and garlic bread on the side for a complete meal. For a fun twist, offer a variety of dipping sauces like ranch or marinara to enhance the pizza experience.
How to store & freeze
Storing leftovers is a breeze! Simply cover the casserole with foil or plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months for future meals. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake until heated through at 350°F (175°C). Make sure to check that it’s piping hot all the way through before serving.
Helpful cooking tips
- For a little extra crunch, consider adding a layer of crushed chips or breadcrumbs on top before baking.
- Feel free to sneak in some veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.
- If you want a spicier kick, try using spicy Italian sausage or adding red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
Creative twists
Looking to shake things up? Here are some tasty variations to try:
- Switch out the traditional marinara sauce for pesto or Alfredo sauce.
- Try different meats like diced ham or shredded chicken for variety.
- Experiment with gourmet cheeses, such as smoked gouda or sharp cheddar, for an upgraded flavor profile.
Common questions
What is the prep time for this casserole?
The total prep time is around 20-30 minutes, with an additional 25-30 minutes for baking.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne and rotini work great, but you can also use ziti, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes well! Just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container, and it can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Ready to enjoy a hearty dish that combines all your favorite pizza flavors in an easy, comforting casserole? This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. Dig in!
