Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Meats

01 - 450g ground beef
02 - 225g Italian sausage, casings removed
03 - 1 cup pepperoni slices
04 - 225g cooked bacon, crumbled

→ Vegetables and Aromatics

05 - 1 small onion, diced
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Sauce and Seasonings

07 - 1 (24 oz) jar pizza sauce
08 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
09 - 1 teaspoon dried basil
10 - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional

→ Pasta

11 - 1 (16 oz) package rotini pasta

→ Cheese

12 - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
13 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
14 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Garnish

15 - Fresh basil, optional

# Instructions:

01 - Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
02 - In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat. Break up the meat into crumbles as it cooks, and drain any excess fat.
03 - Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion softens, about 3-4 minutes.
04 - Add the pepperoni slices, crumbled bacon, pizza sauce, oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
05 - Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). In a large casserole dish, layer the cooked pasta and the meat sauce mixture. Stir to combine and spread evenly.
06 - Top the casserole with shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese.
07 - Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
08 - Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your hearty Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole.

# Notes:

01 - If you like, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or black olives to make the casserole more similar to a classic pizza.
02 - Customize the meats by using bacon, sausage, ground beef, ham, or even grilled chicken.
03 - For added spice, include more crushed red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.