Super Stuffed Pizza Loaf
A hearty, cheesy stuffed pizza loaf packed with flavorful beef, sausage, vegetables, and melted mozzarella, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups Pace mild picante sauce ⓘ
- 1/4 cup tomato paste ⓘ
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion ⓘ
- 1/2 cup dry bread crumbs ⓘ
- 1 egg, lightly beaten ⓘ
- 3/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning ⓘ
- 1 cup (4 oz.) shredded Mozzarella cheese ⓘ
- 1 (2 1/2 oz.) jar sliced mushrooms, drained ⓘ
- 1/2 cup chopped green pepper ⓘ
- 1/4 cup sliced ripe olives (optional) ⓘ
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine picante sauce and tomato paste; mix well.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage (casings removed), 1/2 cup of the picante sauce mixture, chopped onion, bread crumbs, egg, and Italian seasoning.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Divide the meat mixture in half.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of ground meats like pork or turkey alongside the beef. If you don't have Italian sausage, you can substitute with ground turkey seasoned with Italian herbs. To enhance the sauce, try adding minced garlic or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. When forming the loaf, ensure it's tightly packed for better structure.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Super Stuffed Pizza Loaf with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Sicilian-Style Meatballs And Fettuccine for a hearty Italian feast. For dipping, consider a side of extra picante sauce or marinara. This dish is perfect for game day or family gatherings, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the pizza loaf tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer, where it can last up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw if frozen, then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Super Stuffed Pizza Loaf contains roughly 457 calories, with 16g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value) and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 731mg per serving (32% 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 cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute mozzarella with provolone or cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese melts well. For a gourmet touch, try using a blend of Italian cheeses to enhance the overall taste.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, replace the meat with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, chopped spinach, and lentils or beans for protein. You can also add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to keep it hearty and satisfying.
What can I serve with the Super Stuffed Pizza Loaf?
This pizza loaf is versatile and can be served with various sides. A fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables complement it well. For a complete Italian meal, consider pairing it with Lasagna With A Twist or a side of garlic knots.
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).