Welcome, fellow food enthusiasts! Today, I have a mouth-watering surprise for you that combines the best of two worlds: pizza and casserole. Yes, you heard it right! We’re diving into the scrumptious realm of Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole. This dish is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a perfect blend of convenience and deliciousness, making it a must-try for all meat and pizza aficionados out there.
A Carnival of Flavors in One Dish
Imagine the hearty, meaty goodness of your favorite pizza toppings melded with the comforting embrace of a warm, baked casserole. That’s what Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is all about. It’s a culinary masterpiece that promises to deliver a burst of flavors with every bite.
What You Need for This Meaty Marvel
- Lean Ground Beef: 1 lb, for a rich and robust base.
- Beef Sausage: 1 lb, adding a spicy and savory layer.
- Pepperoni: 1 cup chopped, for that classic pizza zest.
- All-Purpose Flour: ¼ cup, to thicken the sauce subtly.
- Italian Seasoning: 4 tsp divided, to infuse the dish with herby notes.
- Tomato Basil Pasta Sauce: 1 (26-oz) jar, for a tangy tomato base.
- Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups shredded, for gooey, melty perfection.
- Pizza Crust Dough: 1 (13.8-oz) can refrigerated, for a crispy topping.
- Olive Oil: 1 Tbsp, to give the crust a golden touch.
- Parmesan Cheese: 3 Tbsp grated, for a sharp, cheesy finish.
Crafting Your Casserole
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Steps to Culinary Bliss
- Preheat and Prepare: Kick things off by preheating your oven to 425º F and greasing a 9×13-inch pan.
- Sauté and Simmer: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and sausage, then drain the excess fat. Mix in pepperoni, flour, and most of the Italian seasoning, followed by the pasta sauce. Let it boil briefly, then take it off the heat.
- Layer and Cheese: Pour the meat sauce into your pan, layer with mozzarella, then unroll the pizza crust dough on top. This layering is where the magic begins.
- Bake to Perfection: Brush the crust with olive oil, sprinkle with the remaining seasonings and cheeses, and bake until golden brown and irresistible.
Why This Dish Stands Out
Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings together the spicy and meaty elements of a classic meat lovers pizza with the hearty, fulfilling nature of a casserole. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or simply when you crave something satisfying and flavorful.
In conclusion, the Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is more than just a dish; it’s a heartwarming experience waiting to be shared. Dive into this cheesy, meaty goodness and let your taste buds dance in delight. Bon Appétit!