How to Make a Hearty Italian Meat Lovers Pizza Bake

This Hearty Italian Meat Lovers Pizza Bake is everything you crave from a loaded pizza—savory meats, melted cheese, rich tomato sauce—all baked into one satisfying and lighter casserole. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or feeding a hungry crowd, this dish delivers bold flavor, loads of protein, and that pizza-night feeling with fewer carbs and a wholesome twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ultimate Comfort Food: All the flavors of your favorite meat lovers pizza in a cozy casserole.
Protein-Packed: Made with turkey sausage, lean beef, and turkey pepperoni for a filling and nourishing meal.
Lower-Carb Option: Skips the traditional crust while keeping all the pizza goodness.
Easy & Family-Friendly: Quick to prepare and a hit with adults and kids alike.

Ingredients

For the Bake:

• 1/2 pound lean ground beef
• 1/2 pound turkey Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1/2 cup chopped onions
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell peppers
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup no-sugar-added marinara or pizza sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup reduced-fat shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup turkey pepperoni slices
• Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Meat & Veggies:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and turkey sausage until browned and cooked through.
• Add the onions, peppers, and mushrooms. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
• Stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, oregano, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
• Simmer for 2–3 minutes to combine flavors.

Assemble the Bake:

• Transfer the mixture to a greased 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish.
• Sprinkle evenly with both types of mozzarella cheese.
• Top with turkey pepperoni slices.

Bake & Serve:

• Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
• Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 260
• Carbs: 6g
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 13g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

Tips for Success

• Use a Flavorful Sauce: A quality marinara or pizza sauce really brings the flavor.
• Customize Your Veggies: Add olives, spinach, or jalapeños for a twist.
• Make it Spicy: Amp up the heat with extra red pepper flakes or spicy turkey sausage.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead and refrigerate or freeze in portions for quick meals.

Why This Recipe Works

• Classic Pizza Vibes: Tastes like your favorite slice—without the crust.
• Family Approved: Meaty, cheesy, and saucy enough for even picky eaters.
• Lower in Carbs: Skipping the dough cuts carbs while keeping flavor intact.
• High in Protein: Keeps you full and fueled longer thanks to the trio of lean meats.

This Hearty Italian Meat Lovers Pizza Bake is a must-try for anyone craving pizza flavors in a satisfying, lighter casserole. With gooey cheese, robust sauce, and plenty of protein-packed meats, it’s a cozy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or indulgent weekends—without the pizza hangover. Serve it with a simple side salad or roasted veggies and enjoy the perfect balance of comfort and smart eating!