Description

The Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines the beloved flavors of a classic meat lovers pizza with the ease and convenience of a casserole. This recipe features layers of savory ground beef, pork sausage, and pepperoni, all smothered in a rich tomato basil sauce and topped with a generous amount of mozzarella and parmesan cheese.

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground beef

1 lb pork sausage

1 cup chopped pepperoni

¼ cup all-purpose flour

4 tsp Italian seasoning, divided

1 (26-oz) jar tomato basil pasta sauce

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 (13.8-oz) can refrigerated pizza crust dough

1 Tbsp olive oil

3 Tbsp grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray.

In a large skillet, cook ground beef and sausage over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Drain well and return to skillet.

Add pepperoni, flour, and 3 tsp Italian seasoning; stirring until blended. Stir in pasta sauce. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Remove from heat and spoon mixture into prepared pan. Sprinkle with 1½ cups mozzarella cheese.

Unroll pizza crust and place on top of mozzarella cheese. Brush crust with olive oil and sprinkle with remaining teaspoon of Italian seasoning, ½ cup mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Notes

Make-Ahead Tips: Assemble the casserole up to the point of adding the dough topping, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the dough just before baking to ensure it cooks properly.
Freezing Instructions: This casserole can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing before, assemble without the dough and freeze. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add the dough, and bake. If freezing after baking, cool completely, then wrap and freeze. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Dietary Adjustments: For a gluten-free version, substitute with gluten-free flour and pizza dough. Vegetarian options can include a variety of vegetables or plant-based meat substitutes in place of the meats.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with a light salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the casserole. A simple green salad with an Italian dressing works well.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Cuisine: American