Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole

This Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners or potlucks. With layers of sausage, beef, pepperoni, ham, and gooey mozzarella, this casserole packs all the flavors of your favorite pizza into a hearty dish. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a satisfying meal for a busy weeknight, it’s easy to prepare ahead and is freezer-friendly too!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Casserole
• How to Make Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Cook the Pasta
• Step 3: Prepare the Sausage Mixture
• Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
• Step 5: Bake
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole
• Pair with Fresh Salad
• Add Some Bread
• Top with Extras
• How to Perfect Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole
• Best Side Dishes for Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole
• Reheating Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole?
• Can I customize my Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole?
• How do I know when my casserole is done?
• Can I use different types of cheese?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This casserole combines all your favorite pizza toppings into one delicious dish that will satisfy even the hungriest eaters.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this recipe quickly, making it ideal for busy schedules.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a large batch and freeze half for later—perfect for nights when you need a quick meal.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix and match meats or add your favorite veggies to make it your own.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s cheesy and flavorful, which makes it an instant hit at parties and gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the essential tools you’ll need for effortless cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch baking dish is perfect for holding all the layers of this hearty casserole.
• Large Skillet: This tool allows you to cook the sausage and onions evenly without overcrowding.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 1/2 lb bow tie pasta
• 1 lb mild pork sausage
• 2 (26 oz) jars spaghetti sauce
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 lb cooked ham, cubed
• Sliced pepperoni (amount as desired)
• 3 (8 oz) bags shredded mozzarella cheese
• 6 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp dried oregano

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How to Make Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F to ensure it’s hot enough for baking.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Rinse under cold water, drain, and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sausage Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Cook the mild pork sausage with diced onion, minced garlic, and dried oregano until browned.
2. Ensure onions are soft; drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Lightly grease your baking dish. Spread a thin layer of spaghetti sauce over the bottom. Then follow these layering steps:
1. First layer: Spread 1/3 of the pasta evenly in the dish. Top with 1/3 of remaining sauce, one bag of mozzarella cheese, and 2 tbsp Parmesan. Add the sausage mixture on top of the cheese.
2. Second layer: Add half of remaining pasta followed by half of remaining sauce, one bag of mozzarella, and 2 tbsp Parmesan. Sprinkle cubed ham on top.
3. Final layer: Add last portion of pasta on top. Then pour remaining sauce over it along with final bag of mozzarella cheese, remaining Parmesan, and sliced pepperoni.

Step 5: Bake

Bake uncovered in preheated oven for about 40 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

Let rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together beautifully. Enjoy your Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole!

How to Serve Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole

Serving Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole is all about enhancing its hearty and cheesy flavors. This dish is versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides or toppings to elevate your meal experience.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers offers a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing add a creamy richness that complements the casserole.

Add Some Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up sauce and adds a crunchy texture.
• Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks seasoned with herbs are great for dipping into the spaghetti sauce.

Top with Extras

• Fresh Basil: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil on top before serving for an aromatic touch.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy heat, red pepper flakes can be sprinkled on individual servings.

How to Perfect Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole

Perfecting your Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole ensures every bite is delicious and satisfying. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality sausage and fresh mozzarella to maximize flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook the pasta al dente to avoid mushiness after baking.
• Layer Wisely: Ensure even distribution of meats and cheese in each layer for consistent flavor throughout.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings, like bell peppers or mushrooms, for added variety.
• Allow to Rest: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps it set and makes slicing easier.

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Best Side Dishes for Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole

Complementing your Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole with the right sides can make your meal more enjoyable. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a crisp texture that contrasts nicely with the warm casserole.
3. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make a hearty side that pairs well with meat dishes.
4. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds a sweet note and balances out the richness of the casserole.
5. Roasted Asparagus: Drizzled with olive oil and lemon, roasted asparagus offers a sophisticated touch.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini noodles are a low-carb option that adds freshness to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the pasta rinse: Not rinsing your cooked pasta can result in a sticky casserole. Always rinse it under cold water after cooking.
• Overloading on ingredients: Adding too many toppings can make the casserole soggy. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Not greasing the baking dish: Failing to grease the dish can lead to sticking and messy cleanup. Lightly grease your dish before adding any ingredients.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the casserole right away can cause it to fall apart. Let it rest for 5 minutes for better slicing.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese may not melt well, affecting texture and flavor. Opt for good quality mozzarella for that perfect cheesy pull.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for best results.
• This casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, covered, stirring occasionally until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole?

Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole is a hearty dish that combines layers of pasta with various meats and cheese, resembling a pizza but baked like a casserole.

Can I customize my Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole?

Absolutely! You can add your favorite toppings or substitute meats based on what you have at home.

How do I know when my casserole is done?

Look for bubbling edges and golden cheese on top as signs that your Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole is ready.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to mix cheeses like cheddar or provolone with mozzarella for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors that offers versatility for busy families. It’s perfect for customizations based on preferences or available ingredients. Try it out and enjoy a comforting meal that brings everyone together!