ADVERTISEMENT
—
### **How to Make Loaded Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole**
#### **Step 1: Cook the Pasta**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
#### **Step 2: Cook the Meat**
1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat. Use a spoon to break up the meat as it cooks.
2. Once the meat is cooked through, add the chopped onion (and bell pepper, if using). Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions become soft and translucent.
3. Stir in the oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
#### **Step 3: Assemble the Casserole**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat mixture. Add in the pizza sauce and stir to coat the pasta evenly.
2. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Layer the top of the casserole with shredded mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, pepperoni slices, crumbled bacon, and chopped ham.
#### **Step 4: Bake the Casserole**
1. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is hot throughout.
#### **Step 5: Garnish and Serve**
1. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
2. Optionally, garnish with fresh chopped basil and red pepper flakes for a bit of extra flavor and color.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!
—
### **Tips for Perfect Loaded Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole**
– **Customize the Meat**: Feel free to use any combination of meats that you prefer. Ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even adding extra pepperoni can change the flavor profile.
– **Veggie Add-ins**: If you love veggies on your pizza, try adding mushrooms, olives, or even spinach to the casserole for an extra burst of flavor.
– **Cheese Variety**: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Provolone, parmesan, or even a little bit of cream cheese for creaminess can make the casserole even more indulgent.
– **Meal Prep**: This casserole makes for great leftovers and can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage (up to 2 months). Just be sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.
—
### **Serving Suggestions**
– **Pair with a Salad**: Serve the casserole with a simple green salad or a Caesar salad for a light, refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy dish.
– **Garlic Bread**: A side of garlic bread or breadsticks is the perfect accompaniment to this casserole, making the meal even more filling.
– **Pizza Night**: Add a fun twist by serving this casserole on pizza night, alongside traditional pizza for an extra variety.
—
### **Conclusion**
The **Loaded Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole** is a game-changer for anyone who loves the indulgence of pizza but wants something even heartier. With a rich combination of meats, pasta, and ooey-gooey cheese, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it’s a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s dinner for the family, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, this casserole will satisfy every pizza craving and more!
ADVERTISEMENT
