Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

Love pizza but want to mix it up a bit? This Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole is the perfect twist on a classic favorite that the whole family will enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
• 1 can pizza sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 package refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
• In a skillet, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
• Stir in pizza sauce and Italian seasoning, cooking until heated through.
• Roll out crescent roll dough in the bottom of the baking dish, pressing to cover the bottom.
• Layer half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top of the dough.
• Spread the meat mixture over the cheese layer.
• Top with pepperoni slices and the remaining cheeses.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Popular questions:

• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground beef in this recipe for a leaner option.

• Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the cheese blend to your liking, such as using cheddar or provolone in addition to mozzarella.

• Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Yes, you can add diced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or any other pizza toppings you enjoy to personalize the dish.

• Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it before baking, then simply bake when ready to serve.

Helpful tips:

• For a crispy crust, pre-bake the crescent roll dough for a few minutes before adding the toppings.
• Experiment with different seasonings like garlic powder, oregano, or red pepper flakes for added flavor.
• Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Expert Secrets:

• Be sure to brown the ground beef well for maximum flavor in the casserole.
• Use quality pizza sauce for an authentic pizza taste.
• Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to set before slicing and serving.