Oh my goodness, get ready to dive into a cheesy, saucy bowl of pure comfort food bliss! I’m so excited to share my Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole recipe with you today! This dish holds a special place in my heart and stomach because it always reminds me of cozy family dinners when we’d gather around the table, devouring slices of pizza while sharing stories and laughter. Now, I get to bring that same pizza-loving joy into a casserole form! The best part? It’s super easy to make and absolutely delicious.
Picture this: a juicy layer of ground beef nestled beneath a gooey blanket of melted cheese and vibrant veggies, all complemented by the irresistible flavor of pizza sauce. Whether I’m serving it for a regular weeknight meal or a casual get-together with friends, this casserole never fails to impress. So grab your apron, and let’s whip up this cheesy masterpiece!
What’s in Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole?
Ground Beef: The star protein of the dish, I like to use lean ground beef for a healthier option. It cooks up nice and brown, adding that savory richness we all crave.
Onion: A medium onion brings a bit of sweetness and depth to the mix. I slice mine thinly so it mingles perfectly with the other flavors.
Bell Pepper: You can choose either red or green for a pop of color. It not only adds crunch but also provides some extra vitamins—always a win in my book!
Pizza Sauce: This is where the pizza magic happens! Look for a good quality pizza sauce that packs a flavorful punch (homemade if you’re feeling fancy!).
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes lend a bit of freshness and acidity, especially if you drain them first. I love using the mild-flavored ones!
Mushrooms: For that earthy taste and extra texture, I use sliced mushrooms. They absorb all the delicious flavors and add heartiness to the casserole.
Shredded Mozzarella & Cheddar Cheese: Can you ever have too much cheese? I think not! These two types melt beautifully together, creating that gooey goodness that’s the hallmark of any great casserole.
Italian Seasoning: The delightful combination of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme adds that classic Italian flavor everyone loves.
Garlic Powder, Salt, and Black Pepper: Simple seasonings to elevate the dish and ensure all the flavors come through beautifully.
Fresh Parsley: This garnish not only brightens up the dish visually but also adds a hint of freshness that balances out the rich cheese.
Is Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole Good for You?
Now, I’m not going to pretend this casserole is a salad, but it does offer some nutritional benefits!
Ground Beef: Packed with protein and essential nutrients like iron, ground beef can help fuel your day.
Mushrooms: These little guys are low in calories and provide fiber, plus they’re a good source of antioxidants.
Bell Peppers: These colorful veggies are rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants, making them a great addition to your meal.
However, keep in mind that this dish is on the richer side due to the cheese and sauce, so moderation is key if you’re keeping an eye on calorie intake. But let’s be honest, sometimes enjoying a hearty meal is what makes life delicious!
Ingredients for Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
– 1 can (15 oz) pizza sauce
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt (to taste)
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
*Servings: 6-8*
How to Make Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the sliced onion and bell pepper until the meat is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the pizza sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
4. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer the beef mixture evenly across the bottom.
5. Add the sliced mushrooms on top of the beef mixture, spreading them out evenly.
6. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the mushrooms.
7. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
8. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
10. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and enjoy!
Cheesy Casserole Customs
Okay, here are some of my favorite tips and variations for this casserole. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can toss in some olives, pepperoni, or even cooked pasta for an extra hearty twist. And if you want to make it a bit healthier, swap out some of the ground beef for turkey or even half a cup of quinoa for some added fiber.
Serving suggestion? A side salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs marvelously with this casserole, balancing the richness perfectly. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
So grab your favorite blanket, plop down with a big ol’ serving of this Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole, and prepare for some ultimate comfort vibes. I’d love to hear how yours turns out or any fun twists you come up with—happy cooking!
