Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole Recipe
If you are craving an irresistible, comforting dish that brings together all the best flavors of a classic meat-laden pizza in an easy, baked format, you have to try this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole Recipe. This casserole combines juicy ground beef, savory sausage, spicy pepperoni, and melty cheeses layered beautifully beneath a crispy pizza crust topping. It’s an ultimate crowd-pleaser that transforms pizza night into a cozy, cheesy feast you can slice and serve straight from the oven. Once you try this hearty casserole, it’s sure to become a favorite way to indulge your meat lover cravings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole Recipe is surprisingly simple. Each component works together to build layers of deep, satisfying flavor and textures—from the rich meats to the creamy cheeses, and the golden crust that finishes this dish perfectly.
- Lean ground beef: The foundation of savory flavor with a hearty, juicy texture.
- Pork sausage: Adds a slightly spiced, succulent punch to complement the beef.
- Chopped pepperoni: For that classic pizza zest and a bit of chewy bite.
- All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the meaty sauce to luscious perfection.
- Italian seasoning: Brings fragrant herbal notes that awaken every layer.
- Tomato basil pasta sauce: The saucy heart, rich and tangy with fresh basil aroma.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey, melty magic that holds the casserole together.
- Refrigerated pizza crust dough: Creates a golden, buttery crust sealing in all those amazing flavors.
- Olive oil: For brushing the crust to a glossy, crisp finish.
- Grated parmesan cheese: Adds an extra nutty, savory kick on top.
How to Make Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Meats
Start by preheating your oven to 425º F and lightly spraying a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. Then, brown the lean ground beef and pork sausage together in a skillet over medium heat until none of the meat is pink anymore. Drain off any excess fat to keep the casserole from getting greasy while still ensuring rich flavor.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
With the meats cooked, stir in the chopped pepperoni, all-purpose flour, and 3 teaspoons of Italian seasoning directly into the skillet. Keep stirring until everything is evenly combined. Pour in the tomato basil pasta sauce and bring it all to a gentle boil to thicken the sauce slightly before turning off the heat.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Spoon the meat and sauce mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the top generously with shredded mozzarella cheese so it melts into a gooey layer underneath the crust.
Step 4: Add the Pizza Crust Topping
Carefully unroll the refrigerated pizza crust dough and place it over the mozzarella-topped meat mixture. Brush the top with olive oil to help it bake to a golden brown. Sprinkle the remaining 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, an additional layer of mozzarella cheese, and the grated parmesan cheese over the crust for that spectacular cheesy finish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the crust turns a beautiful golden brown and the cheese starts bubbling at the edges. Let it cool slightly before slicing to keep all those delicious layers intact.
How to Serve Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving of this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole Recipe, try sprinkling fresh basil leaves or a pinch of red pepper flakes on top. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a dusting of dried oregano adds a lovely finishing touch to complement the robust flavors.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple, fresh sides to balance its hearty meatiness. Light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a crisp Caesar salad offer refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or oven-roasted vegetables also complement the savory notes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For casual family dinners, serve directly from the baking dish with a large spatula for easy portioning. Hosting guests? Individual servings in ramekins or mini casserole dishes make a charming presentation. You can even layer the casserole in clear glass dishes for a colorful, photogenic look that showcases all the cheesy layers and meats.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole Recipe is a dream for next-day meals. Store portions in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully, making each serving taste even better after a day in the fridge.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully for up to 2 months. Simply cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place in freezer-safe containers. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350º F oven covered with foil until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. For quicker meals, a microwave works as well—just be sure to cover the dish to keep the casserole moist. Re-crisp the crust for a minute or two under the broiler if you like that fresh-baked crunch back.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat in the casserole?
Absolutely! While this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole Recipe shines with beef, sausage, and pepperoni, you can swap in cooked bacon, ham, or even Italian turkey sausage for variations in flavor and texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free flour for thickening and a gluten-free pizza crust dough or pre-made crust substitute. This adjustment keeps the casserole safe for gluten-sensitive eaters without sacrificing taste.
Can I prepare this casserole a day in advance?
Definitely. You can assemble everything but hold off on baking. Keep it covered in the fridge and pop it in the oven when you’re ready. This makes it an easy, stress-free dinner option for busy nights.
What cheese works best if I can’t find mozzarella?
Mozzarella is ideal for its meltiness, but provolone or Monterey Jack can be great substitutes that offer similar stretch and creaminess. Mixing cheeses also adds more depth of flavor.
How spicy is this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole Recipe?
The spice level is mild and mostly comes from the pepperoni and Italian seasoning, which balances savory herbs and a touch of heat. You can easily adjust by choosing spicy or mild sausage and adding red pepper flakes if you want more kick.
Final Thoughts
This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole Recipe is pure comfort food at its finest—rich, cheesy, meaty, and baked to golden perfection. Whether for a family dinner or casual get-together, it’s a guaranteed hit that satisfies big appetites and hungry hearts alike. Don’t wait to give this simple yet spectacular recipe a try; it’s destined to become one of your go-to dishes when you want a delicious, fuss-free meal brimming with all your favorite pizza flavors.
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Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Ultimate Meat Feast Pizza Casserole is a hearty, indulgent dish perfect for meat lovers. Combining ground beef, pork sausage, and pepperoni with classic Italian seasonings and rich cheeses, this comforting casserole layers a savory meat sauce with melted mozzarella and a golden pizza crust. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and bake in under an hour, making it ideal for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 lb pork sausage
- 1 cup chopped pepperoni
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tsp Italian seasoning, divided
- 1 (26-oz) jar tomato basil pasta sauce
Cheese & Toppings
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 Tbsp grated parmesan cheese
Crust & Other
- 1 (13.8-oz) can refrigerated pizza crust dough
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425º F (220º C) and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Meats: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and pork sausage until fully browned and no pink remains. Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Add Pepperoni and Seasoning: Add the chopped pepperoni, all-purpose flour, and 3 teaspoons of Italian seasoning to the cooked meat in the skillet. Stir everything together until well blended.
- Combine with Sauce: Pour in the jar of tomato basil pasta sauce, stirring to incorporate. Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove the skillet from heat.
- Assemble Casserole: Spoon the meat sauce mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the meat sauce.
- Top with Pizza Crust: Unroll the refrigerated pizza crust dough and gently place it on top of the mozzarella layer in the pan. Brush the crust with olive oil, then sprinkle the remaining 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, additional shredded mozzarella (if desired), and the grated parmesan cheese evenly over the crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before slicing and serving hot for a hearty, flavorful meal.
Notes
- You can substitute pork sausage with spicy Italian sausage for a spicier flavor.
- For a crispier crust, brush with olive oil generously before baking.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture for extra nutrition and texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- If you prefer a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pizza dough and flour alternatives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
