Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

Introduction:

Satisfy your pizza cravings with a twist by indulging in the savory goodness of Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole. In this article, we’ll explore the mouthwatering flavors and simple preparation of this hearty dish that brings together all the deliciousness of a classic pizza in a convenient casserole form. From its layers of savory meats to its gooey cheese topping, let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot on your dinner table.

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

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 425º F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and sausage over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Drain well and return to skillet.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minute

Serving:

1. Slice and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking before slicing and serving. Use a sharp knife to cut the casserole into individual portions, ensuring each serving has a generous amount of pasta, sauce, and toppings.
2. Garnish for Flavor: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the casserole just before serving for a pop of color and added freshness. This simple garnish enhances the presentation and complements the flavors of the dish.
3. Accompaniments: Serve Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole with a side salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or breadsticks are also excellent accompaniments for soaking up any leftover sauce.
4. Family-Style Presentation: For a casual dinner or family gathering, place the entire casserole dish on the table and let everyone help themselves. Provide serving utensils and plates for easy serving.
5. Serve Hot: Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is best served hot and fresh from the oven to enjoy the gooey cheese and flavorful toppings at their best. Ensure that each serving is piping hot for maximum enjoyment.

Storage:

1. Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly and consume within 3-4 days.
2. Freezing: Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole can be frozen for longer-term storage. Cut the cooled casserole into individual portions and wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze for up to 3 months.
3. Thawing and Reheating: When ready to enjoy frozen leftovers, thaw the portions overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. Add a sprinkle of extra cheese before reheating to freshen up the cheesy topping.
4. Portion Control: Consider dividing the casserole into smaller portions before refrigerating or freezing. This makes it easier to thaw and reheat only what you need, reducing food waste.
5. Quality Check: Before reheating leftovers, check for any signs of spoilage, such as off smells or changes in texture. If the casserole appears or smells off, discard it to ensure food safety.

FAQs:

1. Can I use different types of pasta for this casserole?
   • Yes, you can use various pasta shapes such as penne, rotini, or rigatoni for Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole. Choose a pasta shape that will hold the sauce and toppings well, ensuring each bite is flavorful and satisfying.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   • Absolutely! You can assemble Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or when hosting gatherings. Simply cover the assembled casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
3. Can I customize the toppings to suit my preferences?
   • Yes, feel free to customize the toppings to suit your taste preferences. While Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole traditionally includes pepperoni, sausage, and bacon, you can add or omit toppings as desired. Consider adding additional vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
4. Can I use store-bought pizza sauce instead of marinara sauce?
   • Yes, you can substitute store-bought pizza sauce for marinara sauce in this recipe. Pizza sauce typically has a thicker consistency and is seasoned with herbs and spices, adding an extra layer of flavor to the casserole. Choose your favorite brand of pizza sauce for the best results.
5. What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
   • Leftover Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole can be reheated in the microwave or oven. To prevent the pasta from drying out, add a splash of water or marinara sauce before reheating. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil to retain moisture and heat evenly. Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave for quick and convenient leftovers.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole offers all the flavors of a classic pizza in a convenient and comforting casserole format. With its simple preparation, customizable ingredients, and crowd-pleasing appeal, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is a delicious and satisfying option that’s sure to delight everyone who takes a bite.