Loaded Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

In a large casserole dish (9×13 inches), layer the cooked pasta, followed by the meat and sauce mixture. Spread the meat mixture evenly over the pasta, ensuring it’s well-distributed.

Top the casserole with the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, followed by a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt beautifully, creating a golden, bubbly crust.

Step 5: Bake and Finish

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Why You’ll Love Loaded Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole:

1. A Meat Lover’s Dream: This casserole packs in all the best meats from a pizza—ground beef, sausage, bacon, and pepperoni—so every bite is bursting with flavor.
2. Pizza Flavor Without the Dough: Get all the pizza goodness in casserole form! You’ll still get that tangy pizza sauce, melty cheese, and savory meats without the need for a crust.
3. Easy and Customizable: The casserole is simple to put together and can be easily customized. Add your favorite pizza toppings like mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives, or switch up the meats to fit your preferences.
4. One-Pot Meal: With all the ingredients combined into one casserole dish, cleanup is a breeze. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep—make it ahead of time and store leftovers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
5. Feeds a Crowd: This hearty casserole is ideal for feeding a group of people. It’s filling, satisfying, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings, parties, or casual get-togethers.

Tips for the Perfect Loaded Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole:

• Use the Right Pasta: Choose a short pasta like penne or rotini that will hold up well to the sauce and cheese. These shapes will trap the sauce, making each bite flavorful.
• Customize Your Meat: If you have a favorite pizza topping, feel free to add it! Sliced mushrooms, green peppers, or even chicken can be great additions. Just be sure to cook any extra vegetables before adding them to the casserole to avoid excess moisture.
• Don’t Skip the Bacon: Bacon adds an unbeatable smoky, crispy flavor to the casserole. If you can, use thick-cut bacon for an even heartier texture.
• Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Simply bake it when you’re ready to eat. You can also freeze it for future meals—just cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Add Extra Cheese: If you love cheese, feel free to add extra mozzarella or sprinkle some Parmesan over the top before baking for an extra cheesy finish.

Final Thoughts

Loaded Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining all the best parts of pizza with the ease and convenience of a casserole. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting a gathering, or just craving a hearty meal, this dish has everything you want in a meal: savory meats, melty cheese, and pizza-inspired goodness. Serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Get ready to dig in and enjoy the flavors of pizza, casserole-style!