Pizza Beef Casserole
A hearty and cheesy casserole combining flavors of pizza with tender beef, savory tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it offers a satisfying meal with Italian-inspired seasonings and cheesy layers that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the beef chuck, Italian salad dressing mix, chopped onion, bread crumbs, and egg well; do not brown the meat.
- Spread the meat mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the meat mixture.
- Place slices of mozzarella cheese on top of the tomato sauce.
- Sprinkle oregano, basil, seasoned salt, and Parmesan cheese over the cheese layer.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for about 60 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture. If you're short on time, you can substitute the beef chuck with ground beef or turkey for a quicker cook. Using seasoned breadcrumbs can also enhance the overall flavor profile. This casserole is reminiscent of Italian recipes, making it a comforting and hearty choice.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect for a family dinner and pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a fun twist, serve it alongside a Quick Baked Pasta dish to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Pizza Beef Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or reheat the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pizza Beef Casserole contains roughly 791 calories, with 23g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (47% of the Daily Value), protein (45% of the Daily Value), and calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 843mg per serving (37% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance. Assemble it up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of Mozzarella cheese?
If you don't have mozzarella on hand, provolone or cheddar cheese can be good alternatives. Each will give a different flavor profile, but they will still work well in this casserole. Just ensure whatever cheese you choose melts nicely.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover Pizza Beef Casserole. Allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until hot.
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).