The moment I first pulled this Bubble Up Pizza Casserole out of the oven, the enticing aroma of melted cheese and savory spices wrapped around me like a warm hug. Cooking doesn’t always have to mean hours spent slaving away—sometimes, it’s about effortless enjoyment. This delightful dish combines tender biscuit pieces with hearty ground beef and zesty pizza sauce, making it a fantastic option for those busy weeknights when you want something quick yet crowd-pleasing.
With only six simple ingredients, this high-protein casserole offers an easy solution to navigating mealtime dilemmas, especially with little ones around who can be notoriously picky! Plus, it’s packed with flavor and is easily customizable to suit your family’s preferences. Imagine gathering around the table, everyone digging into this bubbly, golden delight, and sharing smiles over every cheesy, flavorful bite. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into this simple recipe that brings the magic of pizza right to your kitchen!
Why is Bubble Up Pizza Casserole a Must-Try?
Simplicity at Its Best: With just six ingredients, anyone can whip up this delightful dish without hassle.
Kid-Friendly Fun: This casserole transforms classic pizza into a fun, shareable meal that even the pickiest eaters will love.
High in Protein: Loaded with lean ground beef and cheese, it keeps everyone satisfied and is great for those health-conscious nights.
Customizable Delight: Feel free to swap ingredients or add veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms, catering to your family’s tastes.
Meal Prep Magic: Prepare it ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready for a stress-free dinner!
Feeling inspired? Read more about meal prep solutions to make your life even easier!
Bubble Up Pizza Casserole Ingredients
For the Casserole
• Lean Ground Beef (1 lb.) – Provides protein and substance to the casserole; feel free to use turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Bell Peppers (2 medium, red & green) – Adds color and nutrition; these can be omitted for a simpler recipe.
• Pizza Sauce (14 oz. jar) – Gives the casserole its classic pizza flavor; consider no-sugar-added options to reduce sugar content.
• Pillsbury Grands Biscuits (1 can, 16 oz.) – Serves as the base, creating those fluffy, delicious layers; gluten-free biscuit options are available for those with dietary restrictions.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1.5 cups) – Introduces a creamy, melty texture that makes every bite delightful; can be substituted with cheddar or a dairy-free cheese to fit various diets.
• Sliced Turkey Pepperoni (1.5 oz) – Provides additional flavor and protein; this can be swapped for regular pepperoni or omitted altogether for a veggie version.
With these ingredients, you’re not only making a tasty meal but also a Bubble Up Pizza Casserole filled with love and warmth for your family!
How to Make Bubble Up Pizza Casserole
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Prep the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray, ensuring a non-stick surface for your delicious casserole.
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Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes. Stir it often until it is crumbled and no longer pink. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor.
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Add the Peppers: Stir in the diced bell peppers and sauté until they become soft, about 3-5 minutes. Once they’re done, drain any excess liquid and mix in the pizza sauce for a burst of flavor!
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Prepare the Biscuits: Open the can of Pillsbury Grands Biscuits and cut each biscuit into six pieces. Layer these biscuit pieces evenly in the greased baking dish, creating the base of the casserole.
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Assemble the Casserole: Combine the beef mixture with the biscuit pieces in the baking dish, stirring gently. Top it all off with shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle the sliced turkey pepperoni over the top for an extra tasty finish.
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Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. Look for the biscuits to be bubbly and golden brown—yum! If they start to brown too quickly, loosely cover the dish with foil.
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Serve with Love: After baking, let the casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing into it. This allows the cheese to set, making for easier serving.
Optional: Garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of oregano for an extra pop of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Bubble Up Pizza Casserole?
Complete your family dinner experience with these delightful pairings that add flavor and balance to your meal.
- Garlic Green Beans: Tender green beans sautéed with garlic add a fresh crunch and a burst of color beside the warm casserole.
- Crispy Salad: A light and crunchy side salad featuring mixed greens, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette will complement the rich flavors of the casserole beautifully.
- Roasted Broccoli: Tossed in olive oil and seasoned with salt, roasted broccoli brings out nutty flavors, creating a nutritious contrast to the casserole’s comfort.
- Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks brushed with garlic butter and sprinkled with oregano are perfect for dipping into the pizza sauce, enhancing that pizza night feel.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh, seasonal fruits like berries, melons, or pineapple provide a sweet, refreshing end to your meal, balancing the savory casserole.
- Sparkling Italian Soda: A fizzy and fruity drink enhances the pizza-themed dinner atmosphere, offering a tasty, non-alcoholic option for all ages.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Indulge with soft, warm cookies as dessert, completing the comforting dinner with a touch of sweetness sure to delight everyone.
These pairings not only enhance the enjoyment of your Bubble Up Pizza Casserole but also create a loving atmosphere around your dining table.
Make Ahead Options
These Bubble Up Pizza Casseroles are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance—simply prepare all the components (cook the beef and veggies, mix in the pizza sauce, and layer with the biscuits) and cover tightly in the refrigerator. If prepping even further ahead, you can freeze the assembled casserole for up to 3 months; just be sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious casserole, bake it directly from the fridge (add a few extra minutes if cold) or thaw and bake from frozen at 375°F for about 45-50 minutes. This method ensures that your family can enjoy a fresh, homemade meal without the stress of last-minute cooking!
How to Store and Freeze Bubble Up Pizza Casserole
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps your delicious Bubble Up Pizza Casserole fresh and ready for quick reheating.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions after cooling. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat from frozen in an air fryer or oven at 350°F until heated through, about 25-30 minutes, making sure the casserole is bubbly and warmed all the way to the center.
- Enjoy within timeframe: Consume refrigerated leftovers within the recommended timeframe for the best flavor and quality.
Bubble Up Pizza Casserole Variations
Feel free to tweak this delightful casserole to best suit your family’s tastes!
- Veggie Boost: Add diced zucchini or spinach for a nutritious twist packed with vitamins. Kids won’t even notice the extra greens!
- Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for a little heat. Perfect for those who enjoy a spicy meal!
- Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or feta for a unique flavor profile that brings a new twist to your casserole.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the biscuits with a gluten-free baking mix to create a deliciously fluffy and inclusive dish everyone can enjoy.
- Hearty Beans: Mix in black beans or chickpeas to increase fiber and protein; it’s a tasty way to beef up the nutrition!
- Italian Flair: Incorporate Italian sausage or seasoned Italian turkey for a hearty, flavorful version reminiscent of classic pizza.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the beef mixture for an aromatic punch that elevates the flavor.
- Breakfast Casserole: Swap beef for scrambled eggs and add bell peppers and onions for a delightful breakfast version that’s great for brunch!
These variations can turn your Bubble Up Pizza Casserole into a dish that keeps giving, perfect for every palate in your home!
Helpful Tricks for Bubble Up Pizza Casserole
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Drain Properly: Make sure to drain excess liquid from the beef and bell pepper mixture to avoid a soggy casserole.
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Get Crispy Biscuits: For a crispy topping, finish baking under the broiler for the last few minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
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Perfect Meal Prep: Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, refrigerate, and bake it fresh when you’re ready for a quick dinner.
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Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to customize by swapping in your favorite veggies or using different types of cheese to keep things exciting!
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Check Doneness: Ensure the biscuits are fully cooked and golden brown by piercing one with a knife—it should come out clean.
These expert tips will help you craft the perfect Bubble Up Pizza Casserole and make your dinner experience delightful!
Bubble Up Pizza Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef should I use for Bubble Up Pizza Casserole?
Absolutely! I recommend using lean ground beef for this recipe as it provides a hearty texture without excessive grease. You can also opt for turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly until no longer pink!
How should I store leftover Bubble Up Pizza Casserole?
Sure thing! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. It’s a great way to keep that deliciousness fresh for your next meal. Just pop it in the microwave or oven for quick reheating!
Can I freeze Bubble Up Pizza Casserole?
Of course! To freeze your casserole, allow it to cool completely after baking. Then, cut it into portions and wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer! When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat from frozen in your oven at 350°F or in an air fryer until it’s bubbly and heated through.
What if my casserole is soggy after baking?
Very good question! To prevent a soggy casserole, ensure you drain any excess liquid from the cooked beef and bell pepper mixture before assembling. Also, if you find your casserole turns out wet, you can pop it back in the oven for a few extra minutes to allow moisture to evaporate. If necessary, placing it under the broiler briefly can help crisp up the topping.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Absolutely! You can easily make a veggie version by omitting the ground beef and pepperoni, and swapping in any of your favorite vegetables, like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. Simply sauté them in the skillet until they’re tender, then follow the rest of the recipe as usual. Enjoy the delicious flavors without the meat!
Can pets eat any leftovers from Bubble Up Pizza Casserole?
It’s best to avoid giving your pets any leftovers. Ingredients like pepperoni and cheese can be high in fat and sodium for pets, which can cause digestive issues. Stick to pet-friendly meals when treating your furry friends!
These Bubble Up Pizza Casserole Recipe FAQs should help you troubleshoot any issues and enhance your cooking experience!
Bubble Up Pizza Casserole: Easy Weeknight Dinner Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until crumbled and no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in diced bell peppers and sauté until soft, about 3-5 minutes. Drain any excess liquid and mix in the pizza sauce.
- Open the can of Pillsbury Grands Biscuits and cut each biscuit into six pieces. Layer biscuit pieces evenly in the greased baking dish.
- Combine the beef mixture with the biscuit pieces in the baking dish, gently stirring. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle turkey pepperoni over top.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until biscuits are bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing for easier serving.