Loaded Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole – The Ultimate Comfort Dish
This Loaded Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole combines everything you love about a meat lover’s pizza into a hearty, baked dish. Packed with layers of beef, sausage, pepperoni, and gooey cheese, this casserole is the perfect crowd-pleaser.
Why This Recipe Works
✔ Classic Pizza Flavors – The combination of meats, tomato sauce, and cheese tastes just like your favorite pizza.
✔ Easy to Make – Simple steps make this an effortless meal.
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep – Enjoy fresh or as leftovers throughout the week.
✔ Great for Gatherings – Feeds a crowd with minimal effort.
Ingredients
For the Meat Mixture:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 lb pork sausage, crumbled
- 1 cup chopped pepperoni
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tsp Italian seasoning, divided
- 1 (26 oz) jar tomato basil pasta sauce
For the Casserole Layers:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 (13.8 oz) can refrigerated pizza crust dough
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Meats
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and crumbled sausage until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add Pepperoni and Seasoning
Stir in chopped pepperoni, 2 tsp Italian seasoning, and flour. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine with Sauce
Pour in tomato basil pasta sauce, mix well, and simmer for a few minutes.
5. Layer the Casserole
Pour half of the meat and sauce mixture into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup mozzarella cheese over the top.
6. Add the Dough
Unroll pizza crust dough, cut into strips, and layer it over the cheese and meat mixture.
7. Top with Remaining Mixture
Pour the remaining meat and sauce over the dough. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and 2 tsp Italian seasoning.
8. Bake
Drizzle olive oil over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the crust is golden and cheese is melted.
9. Cool and Serve
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Customization & Variations
✔ Add Veggies – Bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions make great additions.
✔ Use a Different Meat – Swap beef or sausage for chicken or turkey.
✔ Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free pizza dough.
Conclusion
This Loaded Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole is everything you love about pizza in a warm, cheesy, baked dish. It’s easy, satisfying, and perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Let us know how yours turned out in the c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s below!