No Crust Pizza
No Crust Pizza offers a hearty, cheesy, and flavorful pizza alternative without the crust, combining seasoned meats, pasta, and rich sauce topped with pepperoni and cheese. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, it satisfies pizza cravings with a twist that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry ground beef and sausage together until cooked through; drain excess fat.
- Cook and drain the spiral macaroni.
- Divide the cooked meat and macaroni equally into two 9 x 13-inch pans.
- Add equal amounts of spaghetti sauce to each pan; mix well to combine.
- Top each mixture with pepperoni slices and shredded cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly and cheese is melted, about 20-30 minutes.
- Can also be frozen before baking; bake from frozen until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef and sausage. If you prefer a vegetarian option, consider using mushrooms or plant-based meat substitutes. Adding vegetables like bell peppers or onions can enhance flavor and nutrition. Remember to adjust the salt level if your spaghetti sauce is already seasoned. For a fun twist, try using a different pasta shape like penne or fusilli.
Serving Suggestions
This No Crust Pizza is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for added heat. It also makes a great dish for potlucks, similar to Hungry Jack Casserole, as it's easy to transport and serve.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, but the oven will keep the crusty texture of the cheese better. If freezing, wrap tightly and use within 2-3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of No Crust Pizza contains roughly 304 calories, with 16g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 651mg per serving (28% 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 No Crust Pizza in advance. Assemble everything in the pans and cover with foil. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. If it's frozen, bake directly from the freezer, adding extra time as needed for thorough heating.
What can I substitute for the ground beef?
If you're looking for alternatives to ground beef, ground turkey or chicken are great substitutes. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is thoroughly cooked.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While shredded cheese is a classic topping, you can experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or even a blend of Italian cheeses for extra flavor. Just keep in mind that the melting properties may vary slightly with different types.
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).