April'S Little Hands Pizza
April's Little Hands Pizza combines savory hamburger and cheese with a flavorful tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners and kids' appetites craving a homemade touch.
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb. hamburger ⓘ
- 1 can biscuits ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. oregano ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. salt ⓘ
- Mozzarella cheese, grated ⓘ
- Cheddar cheese, grated ⓘ
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 1 large onion, chopped ⓘ
- 3 stalks celery, chopped ⓘ
- 1 1/2 Tbsp. lard ⓘ
- 3/4 tsp. flour ⓘ
- 3/4 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 3/4 cup water ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cup fresh tomatoes ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cup cooked peas (optional) ⓘ
- 1/2 Tbsp. vinegar ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. sugar ⓘ
- 1 1/4 cup cooked shrimp ⓘ
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion and celery in lard until browned.
- Stir in flour and salt, then slowly add water, stirring constantly.
- Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add chopped fresh tomatoes, cooked peas (if using), vinegar, sugar, cooked shrimp, and chili powder.
- Cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- Serve the Creole mixture over a large serving of rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful base, consider adding garlic or bell peppers when sautéing the onion and celery. You can substitute the lard with olive oil for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the shrimp with additional vegetables or beans. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and feel free to experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme, similar to those found in My Mother-In-Law'S Goulash.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish over a generous portion of fluffy rice for a hearty meal. Pair with a side salad, like Fresh Okra Salad, for a refreshing contrast. For extra flavor, sprinkle some grated cheese on top before serving, and consider offering hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a spicy kick. This meal is perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. This dish can also be frozen for up to two months; just ensure it is well sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of April'S Little Hands Pizza contains roughly 485 calories, with 21g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (161% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (126% of the Daily Value), and calcium (90% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1910mg per serving (83% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Creole mixture a day in advance. Just make sure to cool it completely before storing it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat on the stovetop or microwave and serve over freshly cooked rice for best results.
What can I substitute for cooked shrimp?
If shrimp isn't available, try using cooked chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Canned beans, such as black beans or chickpeas, can also provide protein and a different texture, making it a versatile dish suitable for various dietary preferences.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To modify the spice level, you can reduce or omit the chili powder. For a milder taste, use sweet paprika instead. If you prefer more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. Tasting as you go will help you achieve the desired flavor.
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).