Ultimate Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

Introduction

Get ready to indulge in the Ultimate Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole! 🍕💖 This dish is a perfect combination of all your favorite pizza toppings baked into a hearty casserole. It’s ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or simply when you crave a cheesy, meaty meal. Packed with ground beef, pork sausage, pepperoni, and loads of cheese, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Why Make This Recipe

This casserole brings together everything you love about a meat lover’s pizza in an easy-to-make, comforting dish. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week. Plus, it’s packed with delicious Italian flavors and cheese, making it a warm, satisfying option for any occasion.

How to Make Ultimate Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
  • 1 lb (450 g) pork sausage, crumbled
  • 1 cup (about 100 g) chopped pepperoni
  • ÂĽ cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
  • 4 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided
  • 1 jar (26 oz / 740 g) tomato basil pasta sauce
  • 2 cups (about 200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 can (13.8 oz / 390 g) refrigerated pizza crust dough
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) casserole dish.
  2. Cook the Meats: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and crumbled pork sausage until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Add Pepperoni & Sauce: Stir in the chopped pepperoni and 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning. Pour in the tomato basil pasta sauce and mix well. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. Thicken the Sauce: Gradually sprinkle the flour into the meat sauce while stirring constantly, allowing the mixture to thicken. Remove from heat.
  5. Layer the Casserole: Spread the meat and sauce mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
  6. Add the Pizza Dough: Roll out the pizza dough and place it over the meat mixture, covering the surface. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with the remaining 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning and grated Parmesan cheese.
  7. Bake: Bake the casserole for 15-18 minutes, or until the pizza dough is golden brown and crispy.
  8. Finish with Cheese: Remove from the oven, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until melted and bubbly.
  9. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Ultimate Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

Serve this casserole warm alongside a simple green salad or garlic bread. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for casual dinners or gatherings with friends and family.

How to Store Ultimate Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the oven or microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 2 months by wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make Ultimate Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

  • Drain the excess fat from the meat mixture to avoid a greasy casserole.
  • For extra flavor, add your favorite pizza toppings like mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions.
  • Roll out the pizza dough thinly to ensure it cooks evenly over the casserole.

Variations

  • Vegetarian Version: Swap the meats for a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers, and use a meatless pasta sauce for a veggie version.
  • Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage for an extra kick of heat.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap.

Can I substitute the pizza dough?
Yes, you can use biscuit dough or even homemade pizza dough if you prefer. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.

Can I freeze the casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

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