Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup Italian sausage, crumbled
• 1 cup pepperoni slices
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 package (2.5 oz) refrigerated pizza crust (or homemade dough)

Steps: How to Make Pizza Casserole Bake

Step 1: Prepare the Meat and Vegetable Mixture

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until fully browned. Break apart the meat as it cooks.
3. Drain any excess grease from the skillet, then add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole Layers

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of the baking dish.
3. Layer the cooked meat and vegetable mixture over the sauce.
4. Add a layer of pepperoni slices on top of the meat mixture.
5. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pepperoni layer.

Step 3: Add the Pizza Crust

1. Roll out the refrigerated pizza crust and lay it on top of the casserole to create a “pizza” topping.
2. Spread the remaining marinara sauce over the pizza crust.
3. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Place the casserole in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the pizza crust is golden brown.
3. Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate):

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 27g
• Fat: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 1250mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes, then bake as directed.

Q: Can I add other pizza toppings?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add black olives, mushrooms, or sliced jalapeños to customize your casserole. Just layer them in with the other ingredients before adding the pizza crust.

Q: Can I use homemade pizza dough?
A: Yes, homemade dough works great in this recipe! Just roll it out to fit your baking dish, and follow the recipe as written.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: You can make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free pizza dough and checking that all other ingredients, such as sausage and marinara sauce, are gluten-free.

Q: Can I use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
A: Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter option. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Tips for Making the Best Pizza Casserole Bake:

1. Use Fresh Cheese: For the best melting texture, use freshly shredded mozzarella rather than pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.
2. Season Well: Season each layer of the casserole for maximum flavor. Taste the meat mixture before assembling and adjust the seasoning if needed.
3. Customize to Taste: Don’t hesitate to add additional ingredients like mushrooms, olives, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
4. Let it Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve.
5. Serve with Dipping Sauces: Serve with extra marinara sauce, garlic dipping sauce, or even ranch for added flavor options.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigerator: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
2. Freezer: To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Conclusion:

Pizza Casserole Bake is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines the flavors of pizza with the comfort of a casserole. With layers of seasoned beef, Italian sausage, pepperoni, and gooey cheese, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s quick to prepare and easy to customize. With its blend of flavors and textures, Pizza Casserole Bake might just become your new go-to recipe for satisfying pizza cravings. Pair it with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy!