Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

A hearty fusion of pizza and casserole comes together in this indulgent meat lover's dream. After creating this recipe for a potluck dinner, it quickly became my most requested dish, combining everything people love about pizza with the cozy comfort of a homestyle casserole. The layers of flavors remind me of my favorite pizzeria, but with the added satisfaction of a home-cooked meal.

During countless family gatherings, this casserole has earned its place as our go-to comfort food. The way the cheese pulls into long strands and the aroma fills the kitchen brings everyone to the table before it's even done baking.

Essential Ingredients Guide

• Ground beef: Choose 85% lean for best flavor without excess grease. Look for freshly ground meat with bright red color
• Italian sausage: Fresh pork sausage adds tremendous depth. Select mild or hot based on preference
• Pepperoni: Look for high-quality, thick-cut variety for better texture and richer flavor
• Mozzarella cheese: Fresh shredded provides the best melting quality. Avoid pre-shredded for superior melt
• Pizza sauce: Select a robust tomato basil variety for authentic pizza flavor and thick consistency

Creating Your Casserole

Oven Preparation:

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F. This high temperature ensures a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese. While the oven heats, spray your 9x13 baking dish thoroughly with cooking spray, making sure to coat the sides.

Meat Preparation:

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook ground beef and sausage together, breaking up the meat into small, even pieces. Continue cooking until no pink remains, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat carefully to prevent greasy casserole.

Flavor Building:

Add chopped pepperoni to the cooked meat mixture. Sprinkle flour and Italian seasoning evenly across the surface, stirring constantly to prevent clumping. This step creates a rich base that will thicken the sauce perfectly.

Sauce Creation:

Pour in the tomato basil sauce, stirring to combine with the seasoned meat mixture. Bring to a gentle boil, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. This process takes about 5 minutes.

Assembly Process:

Transfer the meat sauce mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with a generous layer of mozzarella cheese, ensuring complete coverage. Carefully unroll the pizza dough over the cheese layer, stretching gently to reach the edges.

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My Italian grandmother always insisted on letting casseroles rest before serving. This patience allows the layers to set properly and prevents the filling from being too runny when served.

Serving Suggestions

Present this hearty casserole alongside a crisp Caesar salad and garlic bread. For a complete meal, add roasted vegetables on the side. A glass of robust red wine complements the rich flavors perfectly.

Creative Variations

• Transform this classic by adding sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or roasted bell peppers between the meat and cheese layers
• Try different cheese combinations like provolone or fontina
• Add a layer of fresh basil leaves before the pizza dough for an herbal touch

Perfect Storage

Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes to maintain the crispy crust. Avoid microwaving if possible to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.

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This meat lover's pizza casserole has become my signature potluck dish, earning rave reviews and recipe requests at every gathering. The combination of three different meats, gooey cheese, and crispy crust creates an irresistible comfort food that brings people together. It's proof that sometimes the best recipes come from combining two beloved dishes into something even better.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

You can prepare the meat sauce ahead of time, but wait to add the pizza crust top until just before baking for best results.

→ What can I substitute for the pizza dough?

You can use crescent roll dough or even biscuit dough as alternatives to the pizza crust.

→ Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Yes, add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy crust.

→ Can I freeze this casserole?

Freeze without the pizza crust top for up to 3 months. Add fresh crust before baking.