24-Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

There’s something undeniably comforting about a hot, cheesy, baked pasta dish straight from the oven. When that dish combines all the flavors of a classic meat lovers pizza—savory ground beef, spicy Italian sausage, crispy pepperoni, smoky bacon, and layers of gooey melted cheese—you know you’re in for a satisfying meal. This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole brings all the best parts of pizza night into a hearty, filling dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep.

If you’ve ever found yourself craving pizza but wanted something a bit more substantial, this casserole is the answer. Unlike traditional pizza, which requires dough preparation and precise baking, this dish keeps things simple with pasta as the base. The pasta holds up beautifully to the bold flavors of marinara sauce, seasonings, and multiple types of meat, while the cheese melts into every bite, creating a rich and indulgent experience.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile. Whether you want to add extra veggies, swap out different meats, or experiment with various cheeses, you can easily customize it to fit your taste preferences. Best of all, it’s a fuss-free meal that comes together quickly with minimal effort. Simply cook the pasta, brown the meat, mix everything together, top with cheese, and bake. In just under an hour, you’ll have a bubbly, golden, irresistible casserole that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a dish that reheats beautifully for leftovers, this Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is a must-try. It’s the perfect balance of indulgent flavors and simple preparation, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Keep reading for step-by-step instructions on how to make this delicious, cheesy, meaty masterpiece!

Ingredients

For the base:

  • 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta

  • 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)

For the meat mixture:

  • 1 pound ground beef

  • ½ pound Italian sausage, crumbled

  • ½ cup pepperoni slices, cut into quarters

  • ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled

For the sauce:

  • 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust based on sauce and meat seasoning)

For the cheese topping:

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Start by cooking the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until just shy of al dente. The pasta should still have a slight bite since it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until fully browned. Break up any large chunks as it cooks. Drain excess grease and return the meat to the pan.

Preheat the oven to 375°F. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, browned meat, pepperoni, bacon, marinara or pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), black pepper, and salt. Stir well to evenly coat all the ingredients.

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Transfer the pasta and meat mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.

Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by the cheddar and Parmesan.

Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. If you prefer a crispy top, broil for the last 2 to 3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Let the casserole rest for about five minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes slicing easier. Serve warm and enjoy!

Storage and Reheating Tips

This casserole stores well and tastes even better the next day.

Make-Ahead Instructions:
Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes, then bake as directed.

Freezing:
To freeze, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Reheating Leftovers:
For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes until hot. If using a microwave, heat individual portions in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

Tips for the Best Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

  • Cook the pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming too soft when baked in the sauce.

  • Drain excess grease from the cooked ground beef and Italian sausage to avoid a greasy casserole.

  • Use high-quality marinara or pizza sauce for the best flavor—homemade or store-bought works well.

  • Mix some of the shredded cheese into the pasta mixture before baking for extra cheesiness in every bite.

  • Layer the cheese on top evenly to create a golden, bubbly crust.

  • If you love crispy pepperoni, add half to the casserole and the rest on top for a mix of textures.

  • Let the casserole rest for about five minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set and make serving easier.

  • For added spice, use hot Italian sausage, extra red pepper flakes, or even a drizzle of hot sauce.

  • Lightly grease the baking dish to prevent the pasta from sticking.

  • Cover the casserole with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking to keep it from drying out, then remove it to let the cheese brown.

  • Stir in a little ricotta or cream cheese to make the dish extra creamy.

  • Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged for better melting and flavor.

  • Try adding a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture for a depth of flavor.

  • If making ahead, assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to four days and reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave.

  • For a crispier top layer, broil the casserole for a couple of minutes at the end of baking.

  • Swap out the Italian seasoning for a blend of oregano, basil, and garlic powder to enhance the pizza flavors.

  • Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad to complete the meal.

  • If you want a thinner sauce, mix a little pasta water or broth into the marinara before combining with the pasta.

  • To make it a freezer meal, prepare and assemble the casserole, cover it well, and freeze for up to three months. Bake straight from frozen at 375°F, adding extra time as needed.

Variations to Try

  • Supreme Pizza Casserole – Add diced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and black olives for a veggie-packed twist.

  • BBQ Meat Lovers – Replace the marinara with barbecue sauce and use shredded rotisserie chicken, bacon, and sausage.

  • Buffalo Chicken Pizza Casserole – Swap the ground beef for shredded buffalo chicken and mix in ranch dressing and blue cheese crumbles.

  • White Pizza Casserole – Skip the marinara and use Alfredo sauce instead, pairing it with grilled chicken, spinach, and bacon.

  • Meatball Pizza Casserole – Use mini meatballs instead of ground beef for a fun texture change.

  • Spicy Pepperoni and Jalapeño – Add sliced jalapeños and use spicy pepperoni for an extra kick.

  • Four Cheese Pizza Casserole – Use a mix of mozzarella, provolone, parmesan, and ricotta for a super cheesy version.

  • Low-Carb Version – Swap the pasta for roasted cauliflower or zucchini noodles.

  • Breakfast Pizza Casserole – Use scrambled eggs, breakfast sausage, and cheddar cheese for a morning-friendly twist.

  • Hawaiian Pizza Casserole – Add diced ham and pineapple chunks for a sweet and savory combination.

  • Mexican Pizza Casserole – Use taco-seasoned beef, black beans, and cheddar cheese, then top with sour cream and jalapeños.

  • Philly Cheesesteak Pizza Casserole – Use sliced steak, sautéed peppers, onions, and provolone cheese.

  • Vegetarian Pizza Casserole – Omit the meat and add roasted veggies like zucchini, eggplant, and spinach.

  • Keto-Friendly Version – Use riced cauliflower in place of pasta and top with extra cheese and meats.

  • Gluten-Free Version – Use gluten-free pasta and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

  • Cheeseburger Pizza Casserole – Use ground beef, cheddar cheese, and top with pickles after baking.

  • Pesto Chicken Pizza Casserole – Replace the marinara with pesto sauce and use diced chicken and mozzarella.

  • Meatless Monday Version – Use plant-based meat substitutes and dairy-free cheese for a vegetarian or vegan option.

  • Extra Cheesy Stuffed Crust-Inspired Version – Layer mozzarella cheese sticks along the edge of the dish before topping with pasta for a stuffed crust effect.

  • Margherita Pizza Casserole – Use fresh basil, mozzarella, and sliced tomatoes for a simple yet classic version.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni works well, but you can also use spaghetti or elbow macaroni if preferred.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the bake time.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! Assemble it, cover tightly, and freeze for up to three months. Bake from frozen at 375°F, adding extra time as needed.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
Cover it with foil for the first part of baking, and don’t overcook the pasta before assembling.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

Can I use different cheeses?
Of course! Mozzarella is classic, but provolone, Monterey Jack, or a pizza blend all work great.

What if I don’t like spicy food?
Omit the red pepper flakes and use mild Italian sausage instead of spicy for a milder version.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook the meat and pasta separately, then layer everything in a slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours.

How do I make it extra crispy on top?
Broil the casserole for a couple of minutes at the end of baking until the cheese is golden brown.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of marinara?
Yes! Dice fresh tomatoes and cook them down with garlic, basil, and olive oil to create a homemade sauce.

How do I make this healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, lean turkey or chicken instead of beef, and add extra veggies.

Can I add ricotta cheese?
Yes! Layer spoonfuls of ricotta in the casserole for a creamy texture.

What side dishes go well with this casserole?
Garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables make great accompaniments.

Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Yes! It’s a great alternative for a lighter version.

How do I get a stronger pizza flavor?
Use a blend of Italian herbs, garlic, onion powder, and extra Parmesan cheese for that pizzeria-style taste.

Can I add mushrooms?
Absolutely! Sautéed mushrooms add a great umami flavor.

Can I add a crunchy topping?
Sprinkle crushed garlic croutons or breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crispy finish.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or freeze for longer storage.

Can I use store-bought pre-cooked sausage?
Yes! Slice it up and mix it in with the pasta for convenience.

SAVE IT FOR LATER IN PINTEREST