Dive into the ultimate comfort food experience with our Easy Pizza Casserole recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this crowd-pleasing dish combines all the flavors of a classic pizza in a convenient casserole form. With layers of biscuit dough, savory marinara sauce, gooey cheese, and zesty pepperoni, every bite is a mouthwatering delight. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual gathering, this casserole is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Join us as we explore the ins and outs of making this delicious dish from scratch.
Ingredients:
- 1 can premade biscuit dough, cut into pieces
- 1 jar (15 ounces) of your favorite pizza or marinara sauce
- 1 medium tomato, thinly sliced
- 1 package (8 ounces or 226 grams) of sliced pepperoni
- 2 cups (180 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 12 large basil leaves, whole or roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup (45 grams) Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Layer the Biscuit Dough: Arrange the cut pieces of biscuit dough in an even layer on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Press down gently to create a solid base for the casserole.
- Spread the Sauce: Pour the pizza or marinara sauce evenly over the biscuit dough, covering it completely.
- Add the Toppings: Layer the thinly sliced tomatoes and pepperoni over the sauce, distributing them evenly across the casserole.
- Sprinkle with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole, covering the toppings evenly.
- Garnish with Basil: Arrange the basil leaves over the cheese, either whole or roughly chopped for added flavor.
- Finish with Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the casserole, adding a final layer of cheesy goodness.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the biscuit dough is golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of Easy Pizza Casserole.
Cook’s Notes:
- Feel free to customize the toppings to suit your taste preferences. You can add diced bell peppers, sliced onions, cooked sausage, or any other favorite pizza toppings.
- If you prefer a crispier crust, you can pre-bake the biscuit dough for a few minutes before adding the sauce and toppings.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the pepperoni and add a variety of vegetables such as sliced mushrooms, black olives, and spinach for a delicious vegetarian version of this casserole.
- Meat Lover’s Delight: For an extra meaty twist, add cooked and crumbled Italian sausage, diced ham, and bacon bits along with the pepperoni.
Keto Version:
For a keto-friendly version of Easy Pizza Casserole, you can make a few simple substitutions to reduce the carb content. Replace the biscuit dough with a low-carb alternative made from almond flour or coconut flour. Use a sugar-free marinara sauce or make your own with fresh tomatoes and herbs. Substitute the biscuit dough with a cauliflower crust for a gluten-free and keto-friendly option. Top with a combination of low-carb vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, and olives, and use full-fat cheese for added richness.
Low-Carb Version:
To make a low-carb version of this casserole, follow the same instructions as the keto version but also consider reducing the amount of sauce and cheese to lower the overall carb content. You can also experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar, provolone, or goat cheese for added variety and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of premade biscuit dough? A: Yes, you can certainly use homemade pizza dough if you prefer. Just roll it out to fit the size of the baking dish and adjust the baking time accordingly.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover Easy Pizza Casserole for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese? A: Of course! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as provolone, cheddar, or fontina for added flavor and variety.
Q: Can I add extra herbs or spices to the sauce? A: Absolutely! You can customize the sauce with your favorite herbs and spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, or crushed red pepper flakes for added flavor.
Savor the irresistible flavors of Easy Pizza Casserole, a comforting and convenient dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a quick and satisfying weeknight meal or hosting a casual gathering with friends and family, this casserole is sure to please. With its simple preparation, versatile ingredients, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of Easy Pizza Casserole.
