Loaded Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole

### Instructions

**Step 1: Cook the Pasta**
Begin by cooking the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside. This will act as the base layer for your casserole and absorb all those delicious pizza flavors.

**Step 2: Brown the Meat**
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking it up as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease, then add the chopped green bell pepper and red onion to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

**Step 3: Add Pizza Sauce and Seasonings**
Once the meat and vegetables are cooked, stir in the pizza sauce, tomato paste, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

**Step 4: Combine Pasta, Meat Sauce, and Cheese**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce mixture, mixing everything together. Add in the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese, then stir to combine evenly.

**Step 5: Bake the Casserole**
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly and top with a little extra mozzarella cheese if desired. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

**Step 6: Garnish and Serve**
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. Slice and enjoy!

### Tips and Variations

– **Add Extra Toppings:** Want to load it up even more? Consider adding mushrooms, black olives, or even bacon to your casserole. This dish is versatile, so feel free to get creative with your toppings.

– **Make It Spicy:** For a little heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce or top the casserole with spicy sausage.

– **Veggie Option:** If you want to make a vegetarian version, simply swap the meats for extra veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, and spinach.

– **Meal Prep:** This casserole is great for meal prepping! It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can be reheated in the microwave or oven.

### Why You’ll Love Loaded Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole

This casserole is the perfect combination of comfort food and pizza. It’s filling, flavorful, and packed with all the ingredients you love in a pizza – from the meats to the melty cheese and the savory tomato sauce. It’s also incredibly customizable, so you can adjust it to fit your taste preferences. Whether you’re feeding a large family, looking for a dish to bring to a potluck, or simply craving something hearty for dinner, this Loaded Meat Lover’s Pizza Casserole will quickly become a new favorite.

So grab your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to enjoy a warm, cheesy, and meaty masterpiece that’s sure to satisfy every pizza lover in the house!

**Enjoy!**