A delicious, cheesy casserole packed with all the classic flavors of a meat lover’s pizza—perfect for a comforting family meal!
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ lb Italian sausage, crumbled
- ½ cup pepperoni slices
- ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Prepare the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until fully browned. Drain excess grease.
- Mix Everything Together:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meat mixture, pepperoni, bacon, marinara or pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this cheesy, meaty delight!
Variations & Tips:
- Add Veggies: Mix in bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, or olives for extra flavor.
- Make it Extra Cheesy: Add provolone or ricotta for a creamier texture.
- Spice it Up: Use spicy sausage or extra red pepper flakes.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and sauce.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cold.
- Crunchy Bacon: Opt for thick-cut bacon for extra crunch.
- Sauce Mix: Combine marinara and pizza sauce for a more authentic pizza taste.
- Topping Ideas: Try adding leftover pizza toppings like green peppers, onions, or mushrooms for even more flavor!
Enjoy !