Ann'S Pizza Casserole
A hearty casserole combining savory hamburger, cheesy topping, and a pancake batter base, perfect for a comforting family meal with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger in a skillet over medium heat.
- Drain the grease off the cooked hamburger.
- Pour the cooked hamburger into a baking dish.
- Top with spaghetti sauce.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the sauce.
- Bake until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian option, substitute the hamburger with cooked lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. You can also enhance the flavor by adding Italian seasoning to the spaghetti sauce. If you prefer a thicker casserole, reduce the amount of milk slightly or increase the pancake mix. For a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes atop the cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pizza casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or Sweet And Sour Potato Salad(12 To 15 Servings) for a complete meal. For a fun twist, offer a variety of toppings like sliced olives, pepperoni, or bell peppers on the side for guests to customize their servings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed and the cheese is melted.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ann'S Pizza Casserole contains roughly 1172 calories, with 40g protein, 138g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (97% of the Daily Value), protein (80% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (60% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1517mg per serving (66% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Assemble it completely, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or gatherings.
What can I use instead of pancake mix?
If you don't have pancake mix on hand, you can use an equivalent amount of flour mixed with baking powder and a pinch of salt. For every cup of pancake mix, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. This will give you a similar texture and flavor for the casserole.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this pizza casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake in the oven until hot. This makes it a convenient meal option for busy days.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).