Upside-Down Pizza Loaf
A savory upside-down pizza loaf combines turkey, flavorful herbs, and melted cheese in a comforting, easy-to-make dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Spray a 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or PAM.
- In a non-stick skillet, heat 1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add ground turkey and chopped onion; cook, stirring occasionally, until onion is tender and turkey is cooked through.
- Add 1 tablespoon flour and stir quickly to combine; cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
- Gradually stir in tomato sauce; add basil, fennel seed, and crumbled oregano leaves.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cook, stirring, for 1 minute.
- Transfer the turkey mixture to the prepared loaf pan.
- Sprinkle shredded Mozzarella cheese evenly over the mixture.
- In a small bowl, whisk together egg, milk, salt, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Pour the egg mixture over the cheese in the loaf pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes or until the top is golden and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using Italian seasoning instead of individual herbs. You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or beef, depending on your preference. If you want a vegetarian version, replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables. Ensure the loaf pan is well-greased to prevent sticking, especially with the cheese layer.
Serving Suggestions
This Upside-Down Pizza Loaf is delicious served warm, and pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve with garlic bread or a slice of your favorite bread, like Vermont Graham Bread. A drizzle of extra tomato sauce on top can enhance the flavors, making it a perfect family-friendly dish.
Storage & Reheating
Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. This dish also freezes well; wrap portions tightly for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Upside-Down Pizza Loaf contains roughly 735 calories, with 29g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (90% of the Daily Value), iron (62% of the Daily Value), and protein (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2483mg per serving (108% 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 turkey mixture and assemble the loaf a day in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing it in the preheated oven. This helps ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
If you don't have mozzarella, you can substitute it with provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile. Each cheese will bring its own unique taste, enhancing the pizza loaf in delightful ways.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Upside-Down Pizza Loaf gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure that all other ingredients, like the tomato sauce and cheese, are also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors without the gluten.
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).