Description

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite comfort food! This Cheesy Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole combines everything you adore about pizza—meaty layers, gooey cheese, and tangy tomato sauce—with the heartiness of a baked pasta dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a satisfying meal prep option, or something fun to serve for game night, this easy recipe checks all the boxes. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s family-friendly, freezer-ready, and bursting with bold, savory flavor.

Perfect for those in search of easy dinner ideas, quick comfort food, or kid-approved meals, this dish delivers on both taste and convenience.

Ingredients

12 oz elbow macaroni or penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 pound Italian sausage, casing removed
1/2 pound ground beef
3 cups marinara or pizza sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
30–40 slices of pepperoni
Optional: fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and brown Italian sausage and ground beef. Break it up into crumbles and cook until no longer pink. Drain excess grease.
Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Simmer on low heat for 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta with the meat sauce mixture.
Layer half of the pasta mixture in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half the mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Add half the pepperoni.
Repeat with the remaining pasta, cheese, and pepperoni.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes for a crispier top.
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes