If you love pizza and pasta, why choose between them? This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole combines the best of both worlds into one cheesy, meaty, and satisfying dish. Packed with ground beef, Italian sausage, crispy bacon, and pepperoni, this baked pasta dish is easy to make and perfect for a crowd. Whether for a weeknight dinner, game day, or potluck, this casserole is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Loaded with Meaty Goodness – Ground beef, sausage, bacon, and pepperoni for the ultimate pizza flavor.
✔️ Cheesy & Comforting – Layers of gooey melted mozzarella and marinara sauce.
✔️ Easy to Prepare – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
✔️ Family & Crowd-Friendly – Perfect for sharing and leftovers taste even better.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Casserole:
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ lb crumbled Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
- ½ cup pepperoni slices
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 2 cups marinara sauce or pizza sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil or oregano for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Meats
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium-high heat.
- Break up the meat as it cooks and drain excess grease.
- Stir in pepperoni slices and crumbled bacon; cook for 1–2 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish.
- Layer half of the cooked pasta, followed by half of the meat mixture and half of the marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Repeat with remaining pasta, meat, sauce, and mozzarella.
- Finish with Parmesan cheese (if using).
Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake 10–15 minutes longer, or until cheese is melted and golden.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh basil or oregano if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Why This Recipe Works So Well
The layered approach ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and texture—chewy pasta, hearty meats, tangy sauce, and gooey cheese. The baking process helps the flavors meld together, making this even better as leftovers.
Variations to Try
✔️ Spicy Kick – Use hot Italian sausage or red pepper flakes.
✔️ Cheese Lover’s Version – Add cheddar, provolone, or ricotta for extra richness.
✔️ Veggie Additions – Stir in bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms.
✔️ Low-Carb Alternative – Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Tips for the Best Pizza Casserole
🔹 Cook Pasta Slightly Under Al Dente – Prevents it from getting mushy when baked.
🔹 Use High-Quality Marinara Sauce – Enhances overall flavor.
🔹 Layer Ingredients Evenly – Ensures every bite has the perfect balance of flavors.
🔹 Let It Rest Before Serving – Helps the cheese and sauce set properly.
Serving Suggestions
🥖 With Garlic Bread – The perfect side to scoop up extra sauce.
🥗 With a Fresh Salad – A crisp contrast to the rich casserole.
🍷 With a Drink – Pair with soda, lemonade, or a glass of red wine.
Final Thoughts
This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is the perfect fusion of pizza and pasta, delivering cheesy, meaty, and comforting flavors in every bite. Whether you’re making it for family dinner, meal prep, or a gathering, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
So why not try it tonight? Enjoy a hearty, cheesy, and delicious meal with minimal effort!
👉 Have you made this recipe? Let us know in the comments!