Bubble Up Pizza Casserole recipe

Olivia

The heart behind Homestyle Cooks

Weeknight dinners can be a whirlwind, can’t they? Between work, school runs, and after-school activities, the last thing anyone wants is to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. That’s where the magic of easy, family-friendly recipes truly shines, and let me tell you, this Bubble Up Pizza Casserole is a weeknight dinner champion in our house. It’s the kind of dish that gets everyone excited to gather around the table, and even better, it’s so simple to throw together that even on the busiest evenings, dinner is sorted without any stress. My kids absolutely adore it – the “bubble up” biscuits are always a hit, and who can resist the cheesy, pizza-flavored goodness? Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – you can customize the toppings to suit everyone’s tastes, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for a fun, flavorful, and fuss-free meal that the whole family will love, look no further than this Bubble Up Pizza Casserole. It’s comfort food at its easiest and tastiest!

Ingredients

The beauty of Bubble Up Pizza Casserole lies in its simplicity and the use of readily available ingredients. You likely have many of these items already in your pantry and refrigerator! Here’s what you’ll need to create this family-favorite dish:

  • 1 pound Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: This forms the hearty base of our casserole. You can use ground beef for a classic pizza flavor, or Italian sausage for a spicier and more robust taste. For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken. If using sausage, you can use mild or hot depending on your preference for spice.
  • 1 (12-ounce) can Refrigerated Biscuit Dough (like Bisquick or Pillsbury Grands!): These biscuits are the “bubble up” element of the casserole, creating a fun and fluffy topping. Look for the large, flaky biscuit varieties like Grands! for the best texture and “bubble up” effect. You can use regular or buttermilk biscuits.
  • 1 (15-ounce) jar Pizza Sauce: Pizza sauce is the flavor backbone of this casserole, bringing that classic pizza taste. Choose your favorite brand and flavor of pizza sauce. You can opt for traditional, marinara-style pizza sauce, or experiment with flavored sauces like roasted garlic or basil pesto pizza sauce for a twist.
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella is the quintessential pizza cheese, offering a mild flavor and wonderful meltability. Use pre-shredded mozzarella for convenience, or shred your own block of mozzarella for potentially better melt and flavor. You can also use a blend of mozzarella and other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or Monterey Jack for a richer cheese flavor.
  • ½ cup Pepperoni, sliced or diced: Pepperoni is a classic pizza topping that adds a savory and slightly spicy kick. Use pre-sliced pepperoni for ease, or dice larger pepperoni sticks. You can adjust the amount of pepperoni to your liking or omit it entirely if you prefer.
  • Optional Toppings (to taste): This is where you can get creative and customize your Bubble Up Pizza Casserole! Consider adding any of your favorite pizza toppings. Here are some popular and delicious options:
    • Vegetables:
      • Onions: Diced yellow, white, or red onions add savory flavor.
      • Bell Peppers: Diced green, red, yellow, or orange bell peppers add sweetness and color.
      • Mushrooms: Sliced or diced mushrooms (cremini, white button, or your favorite variety) add earthy flavor.
      • Black Olives: Sliced black olives add a briny, salty flavor.
      • Green Olives: Sliced green olives offer a different briny and slightly tangy flavor.
      • Jalapeños: Sliced or diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled) add a spicy kick.
      • Pineapple: Diced pineapple adds a controversial but beloved sweet and tangy element for Hawaiian pizza lovers.
      • Spinach: Fresh spinach, roughly chopped, can be added for a boost of greens (add towards the end of cooking so it doesn’t become too wilted).
      • Artichoke Hearts: Quartered artichoke hearts, marinated or plain, add a tangy and slightly nutty flavor.
      • Sun-dried Tomatoes: Chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained) add intense tomato flavor and chewiness.
    • Meats:
      • Cooked and Crumbled Bacon: Adds smoky and salty flavor.
      • Cooked and Diced Ham: Adds a savory and slightly sweet flavor.
      • Cooked and Sliced Italian Sausage (different variety than base): Adds another layer of sausage flavor.
      • Cooked Chicken or Shredded Chicken: For a chicken pizza variation.
    • Herbs and Spices (for extra flavor boost):
      • Dried Italian Seasoning: Adds classic Italian herb flavor.
      • Dried Oregano: Another classic pizza herb.
      • Garlic Powder: Enhances savory flavors.
      • Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a touch of heat.
      • Fresh Basil (for garnish): Fresh basil leaves, chopped or whole, add a fresh, aromatic finish (add after baking).
      • Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Fresh parsley, chopped, adds a fresh, slightly peppery garnish (add after baking).

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions:

  • Meat Alternatives: For a vegetarian version, omit the meat entirely and load up on vegetables. You can also use plant-based ground meat substitutes like Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger crumbles. For a vegan version, ensure your biscuit dough and cheese are also vegan-friendly.
  • Biscuit Dough Variations: You can experiment with different types of refrigerated biscuit dough. For a slightly sweeter casserole, try honey butter biscuits. For a more savory option, use cheddar cheese biscuits. You can also use crescent roll dough, but the texture will be different – less “bubbly up” and more layered.
  • Cheese Alternatives: Feel free to use other cheeses or cheese blends besides mozzarella. Provolone, Monterey Jack, cheddar, fontina, or a pizza cheese blend all work well. For a stronger cheese flavor, consider adding a bit of Parmesan or Romano cheese.
  • Sauce Variations: Get creative with your sauce! Instead of pizza sauce, you can use marinara sauce, pesto, alfredo sauce (for a white pizza casserole), or even a BBQ sauce base for a BBQ chicken pizza casserole.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the spice level by using hot Italian sausage, adding red pepper flakes, or including jalapeños. For a milder version, use mild Italian sausage or ground beef and omit spicy toppings.

By using these core ingredients and exploring the many optional toppings and substitutions, you can customize this Bubble Up Pizza Casserole to perfectly suit your family’s tastes and preferences!

Instructions

Making Bubble Up Pizza Casserole is incredibly easy and fast, perfect for busy weeknights. Follow these simple steps to create this delicious and crowd-pleasing meal:

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Greasing the dish will prevent the casserole from sticking and make for easier cleanup. You can use cooking spray or a light coating of oil or butter to grease the dish.
  2. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the meat is fully browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease from the skillet after browning the meat. Draining the grease will prevent the casserole from becoming too greasy.
  3. Add Pizza Sauce and Optional Spices: Stir in the pizza sauce and any dried herbs or spices you are using (like Italian seasoning, oregano, garlic powder, red pepper flakes) to the skillet with the browned meat. Mix well to combine the sauce and spices with the meat. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Simmering briefly enhances the flavor of the sauce and spices.
  4. Prepare the Biscuit Dough: While the sauce simmers, open the can of refrigerated biscuit dough. Cut each biscuit into quarters or smaller pieces. You can use kitchen shears or a knife to cut the biscuits. Smaller pieces will “bubble up” more evenly and create a better texture in the casserole.
  5. Assemble the Casserole: In the greased baking dish, spread the cut-up biscuit pieces in an even layer across the bottom of the dish. Pour the meat and pizza sauce mixture evenly over the biscuit pieces. Sprinkle the pepperoni slices (or diced pepperoni) and any other desired toppings (vegetables, cooked meats) evenly over the meat and sauce mixture. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over all the toppings. Layering the ingredients in this order ensures that the biscuits bake properly at the bottom, the sauce and meat are evenly distributed, toppings are cooked, and the cheese melts beautifully on top.
  6. Bake the Casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the thickness of the casserole. The biscuits should be puffed up and golden brown, and the cheese should be melted and slightly browned in spots.
  7. Let Rest and Serve: Let the casserole stand for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to serve. Cut into squares or scoop out portions and serve hot. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, for a fresh and flavorful finish.

Tips for Perfect Bubble Up Pizza Casserole:

  • Don’t Overcrowd the Dish: Use a 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure the casserole bakes evenly. If the dish is too small and the casserole is too crowded, the biscuits may not cook through properly in the center.
  • Cut Biscuits into Smaller Pieces: Cutting the biscuits into quarters or smaller pieces helps them cook through evenly and “bubble up” nicely. Larger pieces may remain doughy in the center.
  • Don’t Overbake: Bake until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through, but avoid overbaking, which can make the biscuits dry and the cheese too browned.
  • Adjust Toppings to Your Liking: Feel free to customize the toppings to your family’s preferences. Add more or less of your favorite toppings.
  • Check for Doneness: To check if the biscuits are cooked through, insert a toothpick into the center of a biscuit. It should come out clean, or with just a few moist crumbs, not wet dough.

Following these instructions will help you create a delicious and perfectly baked Bubble Up Pizza Casserole that your family will love!

Nutrition Facts

(Per Serving, estimated for 1/6th of the casserole. Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.)

  • Servings: Approximately 6 servings per 9×13 inch casserole.
  • Calories per Serving: Approximately 400-500 calories.

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown per Serving (Estimated):

  • Calories: 400-500 kcal
  • Total Fat: 20-25g
    • Saturated Fat: 8-12g
    • Unsaturated Fat: 10-15g
  • Cholesterol: 70-90mg
  • Sodium: 800-1000mg (can be high depending on ingredients, especially pizza sauce and processed meats)
  • Total Carbohydrates: 35-45g
    • Dietary Fiber: 2-3g
    • Sugars: 8-12g
  • Protein: 20-25g

Key Nutritional Highlights (and Considerations):

  • Good Source of Protein: Provides a good amount of protein from ground meat and cheese, which is important for satiety and muscle building.
  • Moderate in Fat: Contains a moderate amount of fat, primarily from meat and cheese. Choosing leaner meat and reduced-fat cheese can help lower the fat content.
  • Source of Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates come from the biscuit dough and pizza sauce. Choosing whole wheat biscuit dough (if available) and sauces with less added sugar can improve the carbohydrate profile.
  • Can be High in Sodium: Sodium content can be relatively high, especially due to pizza sauce, processed meats like pepperoni and sausage, and cheese. Choosing low-sodium or reduced-sodium versions of these ingredients can help lower the sodium content.
  • Customizable with Vegetables: Adding plenty of vegetables (onions, peppers, mushrooms, spinach, etc.) can significantly boost the vitamin, mineral, and fiber content of the casserole.

Important Notes:

  • These are estimated nutritional values and can vary significantly based on the specific brands and types of ingredients used (e.g., lean vs. regular ground beef, type of biscuit dough, amount of cheese, toppings).
  • Homemade casseroles generally offer more control over ingredients compared to restaurant or pre-made versions.
  • To make this casserole healthier, consider using leaner ground meat, reduced-fat cheese, whole wheat biscuit dough (if available), loading up on vegetables, and using lower-sodium pizza sauce and toppings.
  • Portion control is important, as calorie counts are per serving.

For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you used. However, this general nutritional overview provides a good understanding of what to expect from a serving of Bubble Up Pizza Casserole.

Preparation Time

Bubble Up Pizza Casserole is a weeknight winner because it’s not only delicious but also quick to prepare. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate preparation time:

  • Prep Time: 15-20 minutes (This includes browning the meat, chopping any vegetables (if using), cutting biscuits, and assembling the casserole).
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes (Baking time in the oven).
  • Total Time (Approximate): 35-45 minutes (From start to finish).

Time-Saving Tips:

  • Use Pre-Chopped Vegetables: If you want to save time, use pre-chopped vegetables from the grocery store (like diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms) or frozen pre-chopped vegetables (thawed).
  • Skip Optional Toppings (or Keep it Simple): While toppings are delicious, you can keep it simple with just pepperoni and cheese to reduce prep time.
  • Prepare Ingredients Ahead of Time: You can brown the meat and chop vegetables earlier in the day or even the day before and store them in the refrigerator. This makes assembly even faster at dinner time.
  • One-Pan Meal: Bubble Up Pizza Casserole is essentially a one-pan meal, which minimizes cleanup time after dinner.

Planning Ahead:

  • Perfect for Weeknights: The short prep and cook time make this casserole ideal for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying dinner.
  • Make-Ahead Option (Partial Prep): You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, up to a few hours before baking. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold. Avoid assembling it too far in advance, as the biscuits can become soggy if they sit in the sauce mixture for too long.

Bubble Up Pizza Casserole truly lives up to its reputation as a fast and easy weeknight meal. With minimal active time and a relatively short baking time, you can have a hot, delicious, and family-pleasing dinner on the table in under an hour!

How to Serve Bubble Up Pizza Casserole

Bubble Up Pizza Casserole is a hearty and complete meal on its own, but you can enhance your dinner and create a more balanced and satisfying experience by serving it with complementary side dishes and accompaniments. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

Side Dishes:

  • Simple Salad: A fresh and crisp side salad is a perfect counterpoint to the richness of the casserole.
    • Garden Salad: Mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, and your favorite vinaigrette or light dressing.
    • Caesar Salad: Classic Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing.
    • Italian Salad: Arugula, cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, basil leaves, and balsamic vinaigrette.
  • Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Adding a side of vegetables boosts the nutritional value and provides a lighter element to the meal.
    • Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: Simple steamed broccoli or green beans with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
    • Roasted Asparagus or Brussels Sprouts: Roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
    • Garlic Bread or Breadsticks: For a more indulgent side, serve with garlic bread or breadsticks for dipping into any leftover sauce.
    • Caprese Salad: Sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves, drizzled with balsamic glaze – a fresh and flavorful Italian side.

Accompaniments and Toppings:

  • Grated Parmesan Cheese: Offer extra grated Parmesan cheese for sprinkling on top of individual servings.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a little extra heat, provide red pepper flakes for sprinkling on top.
  • Fresh Basil or Parsley (Chopped): Garnish individual servings with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of freshness and flavor.
  • Garlic Butter (for dipping biscuits): Melt butter with minced garlic and parsley for a delicious dipping sauce for the “bubble up” biscuits.
  • Ranch Dressing or Marinara Sauce (for dipping): Offer ranch dressing or extra marinara sauce for dipping, especially for kids who enjoy dipping sauces.

Serving Styles:

  • Family Style: Place the entire casserole dish in the center of the table and let everyone serve themselves family-style.
  • Pre-Portioned: Cut the casserole into squares and serve pre-portioned servings on plates, especially helpful for portion control or buffet-style serving.
  • Buffet or Potluck: Bubble Up Pizza Casserole is a great dish to bring to potlucks or buffet-style gatherings. It travels well and is easy to serve.

Drink Pairings:

  • Soda or Iced Tea: Classic kid-friendly choices.
  • Sparkling Water with Lemon or Lime: A refreshing and lighter option.
  • Italian Soda: Flavored sparkling water with a splash of cream or half-and-half (optional).
  • Light Beer or Italian Wine (for adults): Pair with a light beer or a simple Italian red wine like Chianti or Pinot Grigio for a more adult-friendly meal.

By offering a simple side salad or vegetable dish and some optional accompaniments, you can create a well-rounded and satisfying meal around your Bubble Up Pizza Casserole, making it a complete and enjoyable family dinner experience.

Additional Tips and Variations

Bubble Up Pizza Casserole is already fantastic as is, but here are five additional tips and creative variations to take your casserole to the next level and cater to different tastes and dietary needs:

  1. Pre-Cook Vegetables for Best Texture: If you are using vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms as toppings, consider sautéing them briefly in the skillet with the ground meat before adding the pizza sauce. Pre-cooking vegetables will soften them slightly and prevent them from being undercooked or crunchy in the finished casserole. Sauté them until they are tender-crisp for the best texture in the baked casserole.
  2. Toast Biscuit Topping for Extra Flavor and Crunch: For an even more golden brown and slightly crispy biscuit topping, you can lightly toast the biscuit pieces before assembling the casserole. After cutting the biscuits into pieces, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are lightly golden. Let them cool slightly before adding them to the casserole. Toasting the biscuits adds a deeper flavor and a slightly crispier texture that complements the soft interior of the casserole.
  3. Layer Cheese Throughout the Casserole: Instead of just topping the casserole with cheese, try layering some cheese within the casserole as well. After spreading the biscuit pieces and adding the meat sauce mixture, sprinkle about half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Then add your toppings, and finally, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Layering the cheese throughout ensures that you get cheesy goodness in every bite and helps to bind the casserole together.
  4. Make Mini Bubble Up Pizza Casseroles in Muffin Tins: For individual portions or a fun appetizer version, you can make mini Bubble Up Pizza Casseroles in muffin tins. Grease a muffin tin. Cut each biscuit into 6-8 smaller pieces. Place a few biscuit pieces in the bottom of each muffin cup. Spoon the meat sauce mixture over the biscuits in each cup, and top with cheese and desired toppings. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until biscuits are golden brown and cheese is melted. Mini casseroles are perfect for parties, kid-friendly portions, or meal prepping individual lunches.
  5. Experiment with Different Flavor Themes: Don’t limit yourself to classic pepperoni pizza! Explore different flavor themes to create exciting variations of Bubble Up Pizza Casserole:
    • BBQ Chicken Pizza Casserole: Use BBQ sauce instead of pizza sauce, shredded cooked chicken instead of ground beef, red onion, cilantro, and cheddar cheese.
    • Buffalo Chicken Pizza Casserole: Use buffalo wing sauce instead of pizza sauce, shredded cooked chicken, ranch dressing drizzle, and blue cheese crumbles.
    • White Pizza Casserole: Use alfredo sauce or a garlic cream sauce base, ricotta cheese, spinach, mushrooms, and provolone cheese.
    • Veggie Lovers Pizza Casserole: Omit the meat and load up with vegetables like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, olives, artichoke hearts, spinach, and use a flavorful marinara sauce base.
    • Hawaiian Pizza Casserole: Use pizza sauce, ham or Canadian bacon, pineapple chunks, and mozzarella cheese.

By trying these tips and variations, you can elevate your Bubble Up Pizza Casserole game and create a dish that is not only easy and delicious but also customized to your preferences and occasions!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Bubble Up Pizza Casserole

Here are five frequently asked questions about making Bubble Up Pizza Casserole, along with helpful answers to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time:

Q1: Can I assemble Bubble Up Pizza Casserole ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can assemble Bubble Up Pizza Casserole ahead of time, which makes it even more convenient for busy schedules. You can assemble it up to a few hours before baking. Here’s how to do it:

  • Assemble as Directed: Follow the recipe instructions to assemble the casserole completely, including layering the biscuits, meat sauce, toppings, and cheese in the baking dish.
  • Cover and Refrigerate: Cover the assembled casserole tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator.
  • Baking Time: When you are ready to bake, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the casserole directly from the refrigerator. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time (5-10 minutes) since the casserole will be starting from a cold temperature. Check for doneness by ensuring the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Avoid assembling the casserole too far in advance (e.g., overnight), as the biscuits can become soggy if they sit in the sauce mixture for an extended period. Assembling it a few hours ahead is ideal for convenience without compromising the texture.

Q2: Can I use different types of biscuit dough?

A: Yes, you can experiment with different types of refrigerated biscuit dough for your Bubble Up Pizza Casserole, although the texture and flavor will vary slightly. Here are some options:

  • Buttermilk Biscuits: Buttermilk biscuits are a classic choice and work wonderfully, providing a slightly tangy and savory flavor.
  • Flaky Biscuits (like Grands!): Flaky biscuits, especially the large “Grands!” variety, are ideal for the “bubble up” effect, creating a fluffy and layered topping.
  • Honey Butter Biscuits: Honey butter biscuits will add a touch of sweetness to the casserole, which can be a delicious complement to savory pizza flavors.
  • Cheddar Cheese Biscuits: Cheddar cheese biscuits will add extra cheesy flavor to the topping.
  • Whole Wheat Biscuits (if available): If you can find refrigerated whole wheat biscuit dough, it will add a slightly nutty flavor and a bit more fiber.

Avoid using canned biscuit dough that is very small and dense, as it may not “bubble up” as well and can become tough. Crescent roll dough can also be used, but it will create a layered, less “bubbly” topping compared to biscuit dough. Experiment to find your favorite biscuit dough type for this casserole!

Q3: Can I freeze Bubble Up Pizza Casserole?

A: Freezing cooked Bubble Up Pizza Casserole is not recommended due to the biscuit dough. The texture of refrigerated biscuit dough can change significantly after freezing and thawing, becoming gummy or dry. While the filling components (meat sauce, toppings, cheese) freeze well individually, the overall texture of the casserole is best when made fresh and not frozen after baking.

If you need to prepare ahead for longer storage, you can:

  • Freeze the Meat Sauce Mixture: Prepare the meat sauce mixture and freeze it separately in an airtight container. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before assembling the casserole with fresh biscuit dough and baking.
  • Assemble and Bake Fresh: For the best texture and flavor, assemble and bake the Bubble Up Pizza Casserole fresh when you are ready to serve it. The prep time is quick enough that it’s best made fresh.

Q4: My biscuits are browning too quickly, but the casserole isn’t cooked through. What should I do?

A: If you notice the biscuit topping browning too quickly before the casserole is fully cooked through, you can take these steps to prevent over-browning:

  • Tent with Foil: Gently tent the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil. This will shield the biscuit topping from direct heat and prevent further browning while allowing the casserole to continue baking and cook through.
  • Lower Oven Temperature (Slightly): You can also slightly lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) to slow down the browning and allow more time for the casserole to cook through.
  • Check for Doneness: Continue baking and check for doneness periodically. The biscuits should be golden brown and cooked through (toothpick inserted into a biscuit should come out clean), and the cheese should be melted and bubbly.

Over-browning usually happens when the oven temperature is slightly too high or the casserole is placed too high in the oven. Tenting with foil is often the easiest and most effective way to prevent over-browning and ensure even cooking.

Q5: Can I make this casserole vegetarian or vegan?

A: Yes, you can easily adapt Bubble Up Pizza Casserole to be vegetarian or vegan!

  • Vegetarian Version:
    • Omit Meat: Simply omit the ground beef or Italian sausage.
    • Load up on Vegetables: Increase the amount and variety of vegetable toppings. Good vegetarian topping options include onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, artichoke hearts, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and corn.
    • Vegetarian Sausage Crumbles (Optional): You can use vegetarian sausage crumbles (like MorningStar Farms or Beyond Meat) as a meat substitute for added protein and heartiness.
    • Use Vegetarian Cheese: Ensure your cheese is vegetarian-friendly (some cheeses use animal rennet). Most mozzarella cheese is vegetarian, but check labels if you are unsure.
  • Vegan Version:
    • Omit Meat: Omit ground meat.
    • Load up on Vegetables: Use plenty of vegetable toppings.
    • Vegan Biscuit Dough: Look for vegan refrigerated biscuit dough. Some brands offer accidentally vegan biscuits, or you can make your own vegan biscuit dough from scratch.
    • Vegan Cheese: Use shredded vegan mozzarella cheese or your favorite vegan cheese shreds.
    • Plant-Based Meat Substitutes (Optional): Use plant-based ground meat substitutes or vegan sausage crumbles if desired.

By making these simple substitutions, you can create a delicious and satisfying vegetarian or vegan Bubble Up Pizza Casserole that everyone can enjoy!

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Bubble Up Pizza Casserole recipe


  • Author: Olivia

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 pound Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: This forms the hearty base of our casserole. You can use ground beef for a classic pizza flavor, or Italian sausage for a spicier and more robust taste. For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken. If using sausage, you can use mild or hot depending on your preference for spice.
  • 1 (12-ounce) can Refrigerated Biscuit Dough (like Bisquick or Pillsbury Grands!): These biscuits are the “bubble up” element of the casserole, creating a fun and fluffy topping. Look for the large, flaky biscuit varieties like Grands! for the best texture and “bubble up” effect. You can use regular or buttermilk biscuits.
  • 1 (15-ounce) jar Pizza Sauce: Pizza sauce is the flavor backbone of this casserole, bringing that classic pizza taste. Choose your favorite brand and flavor of pizza sauce. You can opt for traditional, marinara-style pizza sauce, or experiment with flavored sauces like roasted garlic or basil pesto pizza sauce for a twist.
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella is the quintessential pizza cheese, offering a mild flavor and wonderful meltability. Use pre-shredded mozzarella for convenience, or shred your own block of mozzarella for potentially better melt and flavor. You can also use a blend of mozzarella and other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or Monterey Jack for a richer cheese flavor.
  • ½ cup Pepperoni, sliced or diced: Pepperoni is a classic pizza topping that adds a savory and slightly spicy kick. Use pre-sliced pepperoni for ease, or dice larger pepperoni sticks. You can adjust the amount of pepperoni to your liking or omit it entirely if you prefer.
  • Optional Toppings (to taste): This is where you can get creative and customize your Bubble Up Pizza Casserole! Consider adding any of your favorite pizza toppings. Here are some popular and delicious options:

    • Vegetables:

      • Onions: Diced yellow, white, or red onions add savory flavor.
      • Bell Peppers: Diced green, red, yellow, or orange bell peppers add sweetness and color.
      • Mushrooms: Sliced or diced mushrooms (cremini, white button, or your favorite variety) add earthy flavor.
      • Black Olives: Sliced black olives add a briny, salty flavor.
      • Green Olives: Sliced green olives offer a different briny and slightly tangy flavor.
      • Jalapeños: Sliced or diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled) add a spicy kick.
      • Pineapple: Diced pineapple adds a controversial but beloved sweet and tangy element for Hawaiian pizza lovers.
      • Spinach: Fresh spinach, roughly chopped, can be added for a boost of greens (add towards the end of cooking so it doesn’t become too wilted).
      • Artichoke Hearts: Quartered artichoke hearts, marinated or plain, add a tangy and slightly nutty flavor.
      • Sun-dried Tomatoes: Chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained) add intense tomato flavor and chewiness.

    • Meats:

      • Cooked and Crumbled Bacon: Adds smoky and salty flavor.
      • Cooked and Diced Ham: Adds a savory and slightly sweet flavor.
      • Cooked and Sliced Italian Sausage (different variety than base): Adds another layer of sausage flavor.
      • Cooked Chicken or Shredded Chicken: For a chicken pizza variation.

    • Herbs and Spices (for extra flavor boost):

      • Dried Italian Seasoning: Adds classic Italian herb flavor.
      • Dried Oregano: Another classic pizza herb.
      • Garlic Powder: Enhances savory flavors.
      • Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a touch of heat.
      • Fresh Basil (for garnish): Fresh basil leaves, chopped or whole, add a fresh, aromatic finish (add after baking).
      • Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Fresh parsley, chopped, adds a fresh, slightly peppery garnish (add after baking).


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Greasing the dish will prevent the casserole from sticking and make for easier cleanup. You can use cooking spray or a light coating of oil or butter to grease the dish.
  2. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the meat is fully browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease from the skillet after browning the meat. Draining the grease will prevent the casserole from becoming too greasy.
  3. Add Pizza Sauce and Optional Spices: Stir in the pizza sauce and any dried herbs or spices you are using (like Italian seasoning, oregano, garlic powder, red pepper flakes) to the skillet with the browned meat. Mix well to combine the sauce and spices with the meat. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Simmering briefly enhances the flavor of the sauce and spices.
  4. Prepare the Biscuit Dough: While the sauce simmers, open the can of refrigerated biscuit dough. Cut each biscuit into quarters or smaller pieces. You can use kitchen shears or a knife to cut the biscuits. Smaller pieces will “bubble up” more evenly and create a better texture in the casserole.
  5. Assemble the Casserole: In the greased baking dish, spread the cut-up biscuit pieces in an even layer across the bottom of the dish. Pour the meat and pizza sauce mixture evenly over the biscuit pieces. Sprinkle the pepperoni slices (or diced pepperoni) and any other desired toppings (vegetables, cooked meats) evenly over the meat and sauce mixture. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over all the toppings. Layering the ingredients in this order ensures that the biscuits bake properly at the bottom, the sauce and meat are evenly distributed, toppings are cooked, and the cheese melts beautifully on top.
  6. Bake the Casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the thickness of the casserole. The biscuits should be puffed up and golden brown, and the cheese should be melted and slightly browned in spots.
  7. Let Rest and Serve: Let the casserole stand for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to serve. Cut into squares or scoop out portions and serve hot. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, for a fresh and flavorful finish.

Tips for Perfect Bubble Up Pizza Casserole:

  • Don’t Overcrowd the Dish: Use a 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure the casserole bakes evenly. If the dish is too small and the casserole is too crowded, the biscuits may not cook through properly in the center.
  • Cut Biscuits into Smaller Pieces: Cutting the biscuits into quarters or smaller pieces helps them cook through evenly and “bubble up” nicely. Larger pieces may remain doughy in the center.
  • Don’t Overbake: Bake until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through, but avoid overbaking, which can make the biscuits dry and the cheese too browned.
  • Adjust Toppings to Your Liking: Feel free to customize the toppings to your family’s preferences. Add more or less of your favorite toppings.
  • Check for Doneness: To check if the biscuits are cooked through, insert a toothpick into the center of a biscuit. It should come out clean, or with just a few moist crumbs, not wet dough.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: one normal portion
  • Calories: 400-500 kcal
  • Sugar: 8-12g
  • Sodium: 800-1000mg
  • Fat:  20-25g
  • Saturated Fat: 8-12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10-15g
  • Carbohydrates: 35-45g
  • Fiber: 2-3g
  • Protein: 20-25g
  • Cholesterol:  70-90mg