Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole: Prepare to ditch the delivery menu and embrace a weeknight dinner revolution! Imagine all the savory, meaty goodness of your favorite pizza, transformed into a comforting, cheesy casserole that’s surprisingly simple to make. This isn’t just dinner; it’s an experience.

While pizza’s origins trace back to ancient flatbreads, the modern pizza we know and love truly blossomed in Naples, Italy. Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to America, and the pizza pie quickly became a national obsession. Our Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole takes that beloved concept and reimagines it for the busy home cook.

Why do people adore pizza? It’s the perfect combination of flavors and textures: the tangy tomato sauce, the melted mozzarella, and, of course, the endless possibilities for toppings. This casserole captures all of that, but with the added bonus of being incredibly easy to assemble. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy night in. Plus, who can resist a dish loaded with pepperoni, sausage, and bacon? Get ready to experience pizza in a whole new, delightfully convenient way!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1/2 cup chopped pepperoni
• 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 (12 ounce) package egg noodles
• 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Meat Sauce:

1. Brown the Meats: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook, breaking the meat apart with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Incorporate Pepperoni and Bacon: Stir in the chopped pepperoni and crumbled bacon. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The bacon and pepperoni will release some of their delicious oils, adding depth to the sauce.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the marinara sauce and tomato sauce. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become. This step is crucial for developing a deep, complex flavor profile.

Cooking the Noodles:

1. Boil the Noodles: While the meat sauce is simmering, cook the egg noodles according to package directions. Be sure to salt the water generously – this is your only chance to season the noodles directly. Cook the noodles until they are al dente, meaning they are firm to the bite. Overcooked noodles will become mushy in the casserole.
2. Drain the Noodles: Once the noodles are cooked, drain them well in a colander. Rinse them briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together.

Assembling the Casserole:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole cooks evenly and the cheese melts beautifully.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, the meat sauce, 3 cups of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well to ensure that the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce and cheese. This step is where all the individual components come together to create the casserole.
3. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Greasing the dish prevents the casserole from sticking and makes it easier to serve.
4. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This final layer of cheese will create a golden-brown, bubbly crust.

Baking the Casserole:

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. The top should be lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent the cheese from burning.
2. Rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.
3. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy! This casserole is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a family dinner or potluck.

Tips and Variations:

• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the meat sauce, such as chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic.
• Spice it Up: For a spicier casserole, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat sauce.
• Use Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone, Monterey Jack, or cheddar.
• Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef and Italian sausage with plant-based alternatives or add more vegetables.
• Make it Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Freezing Instructions: To freeze the casserole, assemble it in a freezer-safe dish. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Noodle Alternatives: While egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or ziti. Just be sure to cook them al dente.
• Breadcrumb Topping: For a crispy topping, mix 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkle it over the cheese before baking.
• Ricotta Cheese Layer: For an extra creamy casserole, spread a layer of ricotta cheese mixed with an egg and some Parmesan cheese over the noodles before adding the meat sauce.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve the Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal. It’s also great for feeding a crowd at parties or gatherings.

Detailed Ingredient Notes:

Ground Beef:

I prefer using lean ground beef (85/15) to minimize the amount of grease that needs to be drained. However, you can use a higher fat content if you prefer, just be sure to drain it well after browning.

Italian Sausage:

Sweet or hot Italian sausage can be used, depending on your preference. Removing the casings allows the sausage to crumble more easily and distribute evenly throughout the sauce.

Pepperoni:

Use your favorite type of pepperoni. I like to use the thicker, more flavorful pepperoni slices, but any kind will work. You can also use mini pepperoni for a fun twist.

Bacon:

Cook the bacon until crispy and then crumble it into small pieces. You can use regular bacon or thick-cut bacon. For a smoky flavor, try using applewood smoked bacon.

Marinara Sauce:

Choose a high-quality marinara sauce that you enjoy. You can also make your own marinara sauce from scratch if you prefer. Look for a sauce that is rich and flavorful, with a good balance of acidity and sweetness.

Tomato Sauce:

Tomato sauce adds body and depth to the sauce. You can use plain tomato sauce or seasoned tomato sauce, depending on your preference.

Egg Noodles:

Egg noodles are the traditional choice for this casserole, but you can substitute other pasta shapes if you prefer. Just be sure to cook them al dente.

Mozzarella Cheese:

Use shredded mozzarella cheese for easy melting. Part-skim or whole milk mozzarella can be used. Fresh mozzarella can also be used, but it may release more moisture during baking.

Parmesan Cheese:

Grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor to the casserole. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.

Olive Oil:

Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. You can also use vegetable oil or canola oil if you prefer.

Fresh Basil:

Fresh basil leaves add a touch of freshness and color to the casserole. Use fresh basil for the best flavor. Dried basil can be used as a substitute, but it will not have the same vibrant flavor.

Conclusion:

This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion that will have everyone begging for seconds! Seriously, the combination of savory meats, tangy sauce, and gooey cheese baked into a comforting casserole is simply irresistible. It’s the perfect way to satisfy those pizza cravings without the hassle of making (or ordering!) a traditional pizza. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good casserole? It’s comfort food at its finest, and this recipe takes it to a whole new level. But what truly makes this casserole a must-try? It’s the sheer versatility! While the recipe is fantastic as is, feel free to get creative and customize it to your liking. Want to kick up the heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce. Craving some veggies? Toss in some sliced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms. The possibilities are endless! For serving suggestions, I personally love to pair this casserole with a simple side salad. The freshness of the salad provides a nice contrast to the richness of the casserole. Garlic bread is another excellent choice, perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce. And if you’re feeling extra indulgent, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top never hurts! Here are a few variations to consider: * Spicy Meat Lovers: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture. * Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with a medley of your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, and spinach. * White Sauce Version: Substitute the tomato sauce with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a richer, more decadent flavor. * Lower Carb: Use cauliflower rice as a base instead of pasta for a lower-carb option. I’m confident that this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole will become a family favorite in your home, just as it has in mine. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying – the perfect trifecta for a winning recipe. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience pizza in a whole new way! I promise you won’t be disappointed. And now for the fun part! I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience making this casserole. Did you make any modifications? What were your family’s reactions? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love. Don’t be shy – let me know what you think! Happy cooking! I can’t wait to see your culinary creations. Remember to tag me in your social media posts so I can see your version of this amazing Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole. Enjoy!

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