Get ready to indulge in a delicious blend of flavors with our Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole! Packed with savory meats, gooey cheese, and hearty sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
### Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 lb Italian sausage
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) pizza sauce
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup sliced pepperoni
– 1/2 cup sliced black olives
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 16 oz cooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)
### Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
3. Stir in the pizza sauce and diced tomatoes. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meat sauce mixture, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, olives, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with additional cheese and pepperoni slices if desired.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
### Nutrition Information:
– Calories: 450
– Fat: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 35g
– Protein: 30g
### Helpful tips:
1. Use different types of pasta for variation in texture.
2. Experiment with different cheese blends for unique flavors.
3. Add some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies.
4. Customize the toppings to suit your preferences.
5. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added freshness.
6. Drizzle some olive oil on top before serving for extra richness.
7. Make a double batch and freeze individual portions for quick meals.
8. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
9. Use spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick of flavor.
10. Enjoy leftovers cold or reheated for a delicious meal the next day.
### Expert Secrets:
1. Brown the meats well to enhance flavor.
2. Allow the sauce to simmer to develop depth of flavor.
3. Don’t overcook the pasta to ensure it’s not mushy after baking.
4. Layer the ingredients evenly for a balanced casserole.
5. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.
6. Adjust the seasonings to taste for a personalized touch.
7. Use quality ingredients for the best results.
8. Customize the recipe with your favorite pizza toppings.
9. Consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat.
10. Have fun with the recipe and make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients.