Deep-Dish Pizza Casserole
A hearty deep-dish pizza casserole featuring seasoned hamburger, savory tomato sauce, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook hamburger and chopped onion until browned.
- Drain excess grease from the cooked mixture.
- Add water and tomato paste to the hamburger and onion mixture.
- Simmer the mixture for 10 minutes.
- Spread biscuits in a greased dish to make the crust.
- Pour the cooked tomato mixture over the biscuits.
- Sprinkle cheese over the top.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of hamburger. You can mix in some bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and taste. If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. To save time, pre-made biscuit dough can be used for the crust, providing a quick and easy alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Deep-Dish Pizza Casserole with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Layered Overnight Salad for a refreshing contrast. For an extra touch, drizzle with olive oil or sprinkle fresh basil on top just before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be aware that the crust may soften.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Deep-Dish Pizza Casserole contains roughly 801 calories, with 32g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (182% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 769mg per serving (33% 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 in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Assemble it up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of tomato paste?
If you don't have tomato paste, you can substitute it with an equal amount of tomato sauce, but you may need to reduce the water slightly to maintain the desired consistency. Alternatively, a blend of diced tomatoes and a little sugar can also work well.
Is it possible to freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed. This makes for a convenient meal option on 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).