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Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Cook the meats: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Add the pepperoni slices to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, just to heat them through. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
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Combine with sauce: Add the pizza sauce or marinara sauce to the meat mixture, stirring well to combine. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to heat through and allow the flavors to meld.
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Assemble the casserole: In the prepared baking dish, layer the cooked pasta and meat sauce mixture. Top evenly with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
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Bake the casserole: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbly. For a golden, crispy top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.
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Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serve: This casserole is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread to make the meal even more satisfying.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well! To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly.
Variants:
- Vegetarian Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole: Substitute the meats with vegetarian sausage, mushrooms, and extra cheese for a meat-free version that still captures the pizza flavor.
- Spicy Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole: Add sliced jalapeños, spicy sausage, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the casserole an extra kick.
- Extra Cheese: For a cheesier casserole, add an extra layer of mozzarella or mix in other cheeses such as cheddar or provolone.
FAQ:
1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes! You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as ziti, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Just be sure to cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the casserole.
2. Can I prepare this casserole in advance? Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, simply cook as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
3. Can I add more vegetables to this casserole? Yes, you can add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or olives, to customize the casserole to your taste.
4. Can I make this casserole without the pepperoni? Yes! You can omit the pepperoni or replace it with other deli meats or just focus on the ground beef and sausage for a meaty yet simple casserole.
