As a self-proclaimed meat lover, I can tell you that this Meat Lovers Casserole is a game-changer for weeknight dinners. It combines all the hearty flavors of your favorite pizza with the comforting, creamy goodness of a pasta bake. The best part? It comes together in just about 40 minutes! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a simple meal, this casserole is sure to satisfy.
- : 15 minutes
- : 25 minutes
- : 40 minutes
- : 6-8 servings
- rotini pasta, cooked al dente
- ground beef
- kosher salt
- black pepper
- pepperoni slices
- shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- shredded mild cheddar cheese
- marinara sauce
- Italian seasoning
- : Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- : In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Season with salt and pepper, cooking until no longer pink (about 8-10 minutes). Drain any excess grease.
- : In the same skillet, add the cooked rotini pasta, pepperoni slices, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything well.
- : Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish and top with the remaining cup of mozzarella cheese.
- : Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is hot and bubbly. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
This casserole is perfect as a standalone dish but can be paired with:
- A fresh garden salad for some crunch.
- Garlic bread for that extra indulgence.
- Sliced olives or jalapeños for added flavor.
Feel free to get creative! Here are some ideas:
- : Swap out ground beef for Italian sausage or even turkey for a lighter option.
- : Toss in bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to sneak in some veggies.
- : Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Approximate values:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 25g
Absolutely! You can prepare it up to the baking step and refrigerate it. Just add an extra few minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Yes! This casserole freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
While I love rotini for its ability to hold sauce, you can use any short pasta like penne or rigatoni.In conclusion, this Meat Lovers Casserole is not only quick and easy to make but also packed with flavor that everyone will love. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleaser at gatherings. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
