Introduction
If you’re a meat lover with a serious craving for pizza, you’re in for a treat! This Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole brings together all your favorite pizza toppings in a delightful, hearty dish that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Imagine layers of savory ground beef, zesty sausage, pepperoni, and gooey mozzarella cheese coming together in one warm, comforting casserole. Every bite is a burst of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casing removed
- 1 lb pepperoni slices
- 1 lb cooked ham, diced
- 1 lb mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 24 oz pizza sauce
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for about 2-3 minutes, until fragrant and translucent.
- Add the ground beef and Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks. Sauté until browned and fully cooked, then drain any excess fat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, the meat mixture, pepperoni slices, diced ham, pizza sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with sauce.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and layer half of the pasta mixture at the bottom. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over it.
- On top of the cheese, layer the remaining pasta mixture, followed by the rest of the mozzarella cheese and finally, the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize this casserole with your favorite pizza toppings or additional vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- This dish is perfect for leftovers! Just store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the top before serving for a delightful kick!
Cooking Techniques
This casserole utilizes simple cooking techniques that yield delicious results. Sautéing the onion and garlic builds a wonderful base flavor for the meat mixture. Baking it covered initially allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, while uncovering it towards the end creates that irresistibly gooey, golden cheesy top.
FAQ
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake it, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I freeze the Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze an unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Conclusion
This Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole is sure to become a cherished recipe in your household. Its hearty ingredients and comforting flavors are perfect for any occasion, transforming a simple meal into a delightful feast. So gather your loved ones, serve up a generous helping, and enjoy the deliciousness together!