Introduction
If you’re looking for a dinner that brings the whole family around the table with smiles and satisfied bellies, this Easy Pizza Dinner Casserole is just the recipe you need! With layers of flaky biscuits, savory ground meat, rich pizza sauce, and gooey mozzarella, this dish effortlessly combines the beloved flavors of pizza into a comforting casserole. It’s perfect for busy weekdays or relaxed weekends when you’re craving a slice of home-cooked goodness without the fuss. Let’s dig into how you can make this delightful meal!
Ingredients
- 1 can (16.3 oz) refrigerated flaky biscuits
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (optional)
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), allowing it to warm up nice and evenly.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until it’s cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain off any excess fat to keep it lean and flavorful.
- Stir in the pizza sauce along with the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer for 3-5 minutes to blend those delicious flavors.
- While the meat mixture is cooking, take each biscuit and cut it into quarters—this will give you those perfect little pockets of dough!
- In a large baking dish, arrange the biscuit pieces evenly at the bottom, creating a delightful base for your casserole.
- Pour the seasoned meat sauce over the biscuit pieces, spreading it out with a spatula to ensure every piece gets coated.
- Top off your casserole with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese, followed by the sliced pepperoni, bell peppers, and black olives if you’re using them.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and melted.
- Once it’s done, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Notes or Tips
This casserole is wonderfully customizable! Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings like mushrooms, onions, or even some spicy jalapeños for a kick. To make it even heartier, consider incorporating some spinach or other veggies. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated, making it a great make-ahead meal!
Cooking Techniques
Cooking the ground meat thoroughly ensures the best flavor and texture. Browning the meat adds depth to the overall dish, while simmering with the sauce binds everything together with rich taste. When layering, ensure even distribution so that every bite is packed with flavor.
FAQ
Can I use chicken instead of beef or turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or even shredded cooked chicken makes a delicious substitute.
Is this dish freezable?
Yes! This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and frozen. Just bake from frozen, allowing extra time for cooking.
Conclusion
This Easy Pizza Dinner Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and joy into your home. With its warm, cheesy goodness, it’s bound to become a family favorite that you’ll return to time and again. Enjoy every bite of this deliciously simple dish that makes weeknight dinners an absolute pleasure!