Cheesy Pizza Potatoes
A hearty cheesy pizza potato casserole combining seasoned ground beef, tomato, olives, and melted mozzarella for a flavorful comfort food perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Cook and stir ground beef over medium-high heat until browned; drain excess fat.
- Mix cooked beef with au gratin potatoes, hot water, milk, sliced olives, salt, Italian seasoning, pepper, undrained whole tomatoes, and mushrooms in an ungreased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Break up whole tomatoes with a spoon or fork.
- Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the casserole.
- Bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or onions to the ground beef while cooking. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Using a different cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, can also enhance the dish. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy Pizza Potatoes pair beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving with garlic bread or breadsticks to complement the cheesy flavors. This dish also works well as a fun party food option, perfect alongside other hearty American recipes, like Cheeseburger sliders or a hearty chili.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Pizza Potatoes contains roughly 1270 calories, with 33g protein, 155g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (120% of the Daily Value), protein (67% of the Daily Value), and potassium (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2413mg per serving (105% 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 Cheesy Pizza Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients in the casserole dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and follow the baking instructions, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it's heated through.
What other toppings can I add to this recipe?
Feel free to customize your Cheesy Pizza Potatoes with additional toppings like pepperoni, cooked sausage, or even fresh spinach. You could also sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top after baking for added freshness and flavor.
Is it possible to freeze Cheesy Pizza Potatoes?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking, or bake from frozen, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
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).