Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

 Instructions

1. Cook the pasta
   Bring salted water to a boil and cook pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the meat
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef or sausage with onion until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add garlic & seasoning
   Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Build the sauce
   Add pizza sauce and optional meats (pepperoni, ham, bacon). Simmer 3–5 minutes.
5. Combine
   Fold cooked pasta into the meat sauce until well coated.
6. Assemble casserole
   Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13 baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar evenly over top.
7. Bake
   Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
8. Rest & serve
   Let stand 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with herbs if desired.

 Cooking Methods (Choose Your Style)

 Oven Method (Classic)

Best for crispy edges and melted cheese topping.

 Skillet-to-Oven Method

Prepare everything in an oven-safe skillet, top with cheese, and bake directly—fewer dishes!

 Slow Cooker Method

Combine cooked pasta, meat, sauce, and half the cheese. Cook on LOW 3 hours. Add remaining cheese for last 15 minutes.

 Freezer-Friendly Method

Assemble uncooked casserole, cover tightly, freeze up to 2 months. Bake from thawed at 375°F for 30–35 minutes.