Double Crust Pizza Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole combining creamy mashed potatoes with seasoned ground beef and Italian sausage, topped with melted mozzarella. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish offers rich flavors and a satisfying texture that appeals to meat lovers and comfort food enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, instant mashed potatoes, milk, and melted margarine or butter to prepare the crust.
- In a skillet, cook ground beef and Italian sausage until browned and cooked through.
- Spread spaghetti sauce over the cooked meat mixture.
- Layer the meat and sauce mixture in a baking dish.
- Top with the mashed potato mixture or prepared crust as desired.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 40 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey instead of beef and sausage. You can also swap half of the mozzarella cheese for a lower-fat option. If you want to add more flavor, include some Italian herbs in the meat mixture or experiment with different types of cheese. For extra crunch, mix in some vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
This Double Crust Pizza Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. Serve with a side of your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or marinara, for added flavor. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside a bowl of Meat Goulash to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for a quick meal or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Adding a splash of water before reheating can help maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Double Crust Pizza Casserole contains roughly 1799 calories, with 73g protein, 166g carbohydrates, and 92g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (147% of the Daily Value), calcium (91% of the Daily Value), and iron (72% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1754mg per serving (76% 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 use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef and Italian sausage with shredded chicken or a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian version. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly, especially if using pre-cooked meats.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake according to the instructions.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Consider adding sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even olives to the meat mixture for additional flavor. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking for a bit of heat, or mix in some Italian seasoning for a more robust taste.
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).