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This cheesy Meat Lovers Casserole is my answer to any busy night when everyone is craving pure comfort food but I do not have hours to fuss over dinner. It is loaded with hearty protein rich layers spicy pepperoni and gooey cheese all baked into a family favorite you can get on the table in under an hour.
I first made this for my son’s birthday sleepover and every kid wanted seconds The adults snuck in for a bite too so now it is a request for every big family gathering
Ingredients
- Rotini pasta: I like rotini because its spirals hold sauce so well Choose a good brand for firm texture
- Ground beef: Adds hearty protein and savory depth Go for 80 percent lean for juicier flavor
- Kosher salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning at every stage Use coarse kosher salt for even flavor
- Pepperoni slices: Bring classic pizzeria taste Choose a thicker cut if you like a little chew
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that perfect cheese pull Shred your own for best texture
- Mild cheddar cheese: Adds a little sharpness and color Freshly shredded is best
- Marinara sauce: A rich tangy base Store bought works but a jar with herbs will elevate the dish
- Italian seasoning: Blends in herby notes A fresh jar will have more aroma and lift the sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit so it is fully hot by the time you assemble the casserole Spray a nine by thirteen inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking
- Brown the Beef:
- Heat a large skillet over medium high and add the ground beef Break it up and sprinkle in the kosher salt and pepper Cook for about eight to ten minutes until there is no pink left Stir often so it cooks evenly When done drain off any extra grease so the casserole does not turn greasy
- Mix It All Together:
- To the same skillet pile in your cooked rotini pasta the pepperoni slices a cup of the mozzarella all of the cheddar the jar of marinara sauce and the Italian seasoning Stir thoroughly so every piece of pasta is coated in cheesy meaty goodness Make sure the pepperoni slices are evenly scattered for bites of flavor
- Fill and Top:
- Pour the whole mixture into your baking dish Use a spatula to spread it into all corners so it bakes evenly Sprinkle on the second cup of mozzarella cheese as the crowning layer This will melt into a golden bubbly topping
- Bake to Perfection:
- Slide the dish into your preheated oven Let it bake for twenty five to thirty minutes until the cheese is hot bubbly and starting to brown Let it rest for a few minutes so the layers can settle Slice and serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you like
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My favorite part is the bubbly cheese edges where the cheddar gets extra toasty My husband and I once fought over who got the crispy corners so now I make two small casseroles just to keep the peace
Storage Tips
Let the casserole cool to room temperature before covering it tightly Store in the refrigerator for up to three days For longer storage cut into squares and freeze single servings wrapped tightly This makes a great grab and go lunch or a comfort packed dinner for a future busy evening
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch out the ground beef for turkey or Italian sausage for a new flavor twist If you want a veggie version try a hearty meatless crumble or extra mushrooms Want spicier heat go for hot pepperoni or toss in some red pepper flakes
Serving Suggestions
A crisp green salad is a perfect fresh side Try garlic bread or a simple steamed vegetable to round out the meal Sometimes I add a little extra marinara on top for a saucy finish Just a handful of fresh basil or chopped parsley brings some brightness too
Cultural and Historical Context
Casseroles became a staple in American home cooking after World War Two when convenient dinners were needed for busy families This one draws from the flavors of classic pizza but bakes up in a single pan It is always a hit at potlucks or church events and bridges those pizza night cravings with homey comfort
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You will crave the pizza flavor and the comforting cheesy layers again and again Clean up is easy and every bite brings everyone to the table satisfied
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of pasta works best?
Rotini holds sauces well, but penne or fusilli are also great choices for this casserole.
- → Can I use different meats?
Absolutely! Sausage, turkey, or chicken can be substituted or combined for varied flavors.
- → Do I need to precook the pasta?
Yes, cook the pasta al dente before combining it with the other ingredients.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store cooled casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- → Can this casserole be made ahead?
Prepare and assemble it in advance, then refrigerate and bake just before serving for best results.