Deep Hamburger Sausage Pepperoni Bake
This hearty and indulgent deep-dish bake combines ground beef, Italian sausage, pepperoni, and layers of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion when you crave a comforting, pizza-inspired casserole.
Ingredients
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Layers
- 8 oz pepperoni slices
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups cooked penne or rotini pasta (optional)
Topping
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Meat Base
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking them into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Ensure the meat is evenly browned and no pink remains.
- Carefully drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy sauce. Return the skillet to the heat and add the finely diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic, which can turn bitter.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
2. Prep the Baking Dish
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a deep 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Optional: Spread a thin layer of cooked penne or rotini pasta on the bottom of the dish to add texture and bulk to the bake.
