Did you think pizza always needs a crispy crust to be delicious? Think again. The meat lover’s pizza casserole defies tradition with rich, oven-roasted flavors that deliver pure comfort in every bite. In France, casserole dishes have gained immense popularity because their taste is beyond imagination (+35% in Google searches in 2024), and this recipe perfectly meets the expectations of busy food lovers. With a soft base, layers of savory meats, and melted cheese on top, this crustless version is a hearty and satisfying alternative, ideal for committed carnivores.
Ingredients
Here is the list for a casserole that serves 6 people. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your taste preferences or specific dietary requirements.
Casserole base:
- 500 g ground meat (beef, turkey, or veal)
- 200 g crumbled Italian sausage (optional: mild chorizo or merguez for extra flavor)
- 1 medium onion
- 1,5cloves garlic
Pizza filling:
- 400 ml tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- salt
Delicious topping:
- 150 g pepperoni
- 100 g diced ham
- 250 g shredded mozzarella
- 50 g grated Parmesan
- A few black olives (optional)
Timing
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 30 minutes in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) using convection mode
- Total time: 50 minutes, which is about 20% faster than a traditional homemade pizza with dough.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the meat base
Sauté the onion and garlic in a large skillet until translucent. Add the ground beef and sausage. Cook the meat on medium heat until nicely browned and thoroughly done.
Tip: Be sure to thoroughly drain the excess fat after browning the meat to keep the casserole balanced, rich in flavor, and not overly greasy.
2. Add the sauce and spices
Pour the tomato sauce over the cooked meat. Add the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 to 7 minutes to blend the flavors.
Tip: For deeper flavor, add a pinch of sugar or a splash of balsamic vinegar.
3. Assemble the casserole
Spread the meat and sauce mixture evenly into the bottom of a baking dish, pressing it gently to form a solid and flavorful base layer. Add diced ham and pepperoni. Sprinkle with mozzarella, Parmesan, and olives.
4. Bake in the oven
Bake at 180°C for 30 minutes. The top should be golden and bubbling.
Bonus tip: Switch to broil for the last 2 minutes for an extra crispy top.
5. Finish and serve
Add a few fresh basil leaves before serving. Let sit for 5 minutes so the layers can settle.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Protein: 32 g
- Fat: 35 g (of which 12 g saturated)
- Carbs: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 880 mg
Healthier Alternatives
You can transform this meat lover’s pizza casserole into a more balanced dish:
- Ground chicken can replace lean (5%) beef.
- Choose light cheese or buffalo mozzarella.
- Mix in the grilled veggies—bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini.
- For a low-carb version, replace tomato sauce with homemade veggie purée.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with an arugula and walnut salad for a fresh contrast
- Add wooden picks for a tapas-style presentation.
- For a fun brunch idea, prepare the casserole in small individual ramekins.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Tip: Draining the meat helps keep your casserole light and firm.
- Insufficient or uneven cheese: Mix mozzarella and Parmesan for a balanced melt.
- Rushing the bake: The topping needs time to form a proper golden crust.
Storing Tips
- In the fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days to preserve freshness and flavor.
- In the freezer: Up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake for 15 minutes.
- Meal prep: You can make the meat base up to 2 days in advance and assemble the casserole just before baking.
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Conclusion
The meat lover’s pizza casserole is your go-to for hearty, flavorful, and easy meals. With savory meat, melted cheese, and layers of toppings, it’s a fresh, flavorful take on pizza.
Try it tonight, leave a review in the comments, or subscribe for more tasty updates delivered to your inbox!
Notes
Ingredients
Here is the list for a casserole that serves 6 people. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your taste preferences or specific dietary requirements. Casserole base:- 500 g ground meat (beef, turkey, or veal)
- 200 g crumbled Italian sausage (optional: mild chorizo or merguez for extra flavor)
- 1 medium onion
- 1,5cloves garlic
- 400 ml tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- salt
- 150 g pepperoni
- 100 g diced ham
- 250 g shredded mozzarella
- 50 g grated Parmesan
- A few black olives (optional)