The Upside Down Pizza Casserole is a delightful twist on traditional pizza that combines all your favorite pizza flavors in a simple, easy-to-make casserole. Imagine layers of savory ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, gooey mozzarella cheese, and crispy puff pastry, all baked to perfection. It's an experience you'll want to savor over and over again.
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Upside Down Pizza Casserole
🎥Video Recipe:
📖Printable Recipe:
Upside Down Pizza Casserole
Ingredients
- 500 g 1 pound ground beef
- 3 cups tomato sauce
- 12-15 salami slices
- ½ cup black olives pitted and sliced
- 1 ½ cups mozzarella shredded
- 1 sheet of puff pastry
- 1 teaspoon dry italian herbs
- ¼ cup dry tomatoes chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- egg wash
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 190C/375F.
- Pour 3 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan placed over the medium heat and cook ground beef for 10 minutes.500 g 1 pound ground beef
- Drain excess liquid, then season with garlic, herbs, salt and pepper and cook for 1 minute. Add dry tomatoes, ½ cup mozzarella, and sliced olives.1 teaspoon dry italian herbs, ¼ cup dry tomatoes, 2 garlic cloves, ½ cup black olives
- Pour tomato sauce over the meat, mix well. Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish, top with slices of salami and remaining mozzarella cheese.3 cups tomato sauce, 1 sheet of puff pastry, egg wash
- Top with a sheet of puff pastry and make a few slits on top. Brush with egg wash.
- Bake the pie for 20-25 minutes.
Video
Nutrition
📋Ingredients
- 500 g (1 pound) ground beef
- 3 cups tomato sauce
- 12-15 salami slices
- ½ cup black olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 ½ cups mozzarella, shredded
- 1 sheet of puff pastry
- 1 teaspoon dry italian herbs
- ¼ cup dry tomatoes, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- egg wash
🔪How Do I Make It?
Preheat the oven to 190C/375F.
Pour 3 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan placed over the medium hat and cook ground beef for 10 minutes.
Drain excess liquid, then season with garlic, herbs, salt and pepper and cook for 1 minute. Add dry tomatoes, ½ cup mozzarella cheese, and sliced olives.
Pour tomato sauce over the meat, mix well. Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish, top with slices of salami and remaining mozzarella cheese.
Top with a sheet of puff pastry and make a few slits on top. Brush with egg wash.
Bake the pie for 20-25 minutes.
🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?
While the Upside Down Pizza Casserole can easily stand alone as a complete meal, pairing it with some side dishes can elevate your dining experience.
Fresh Salad
A crisp, fresh salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, hearty casserole. Consider a simple Caesar salad or a mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumber.
Garlic Bread
Who doesn't love garlic bread with pizza? Serve some warm, crusty garlic bread on the side to soak up any extra sauce and add a touch of indulgence to your meal.
Steamed Vegetables
For a healthy balance, serve steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus. The vegetables' natural flavors will complement the casserole without overpowering it.
⏲️Chef's Tip
Creating the perfect Upside Down Pizza Casserole is all about the details. Here are some chef-approved tips to ensure your dish turns out flawless every time.
Quality Ingredients
Using high-quality ingredients can make a significant difference in the flavor of your casserole. Opt for fresh ground beef, ripe tomatoes, and high-quality mozzarella cheese. If possible, use homemade tomato sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
Puff Pastry Perfection
To achieve a perfectly golden, crispy puff pastry top, make sure your pastry is well-chilled before placing it over the casserole. This helps it puff up beautifully during baking. Additionally, don't skip the egg wash—it gives the pastry a lovely sheen and enhances its color.
Layering Matters
When layering your ingredients, spread them evenly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor. The salami slices should be placed in a single layer over the meat mixture, and the mozzarella cheese should be evenly distributed for that signature gooey texture.
💭Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of adding the puff pastry. Cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply add the puff pastry and egg wash, then bake as directed.
Can I Freeze the Leftovers?
Yes, the Upside Down Pizza Casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with aluminum foil or transfer to airtight containers. Freeze for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 375°F until heated through.
Can I Customize the Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your fillings. Add your favorite pizza toppings like bell peppers, mushrooms, or pepperoni. You can also use different cheeses like cheddar or provolone for a unique twist.
How Long Does It Take to Bake the Casserole?
Typically, the Upside Down Pizza Casserole takes around 30 to 35 minutes to bake at 375°F. You'll know it's done when the puff pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. It's advisable to keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-browning.
Can I Use Store-Bought Sauce?
Yes, using store-bought sauce is a convenient option. Just choose a high-quality marinara or pizza sauce to ensure great flavor. However, if time allows, making your own sauce can elevate the dish and provide a fresher taste.
What Size Dish Should I Use?
A 9x13 inch baking dish works perfectly for this casserole. If you are scaling the recipe up or down, be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly and check for doneness based on the size of your dish.
Is This Casserole Spicy?
The Upside Down Pizza Casserole is not inherently spicy, but you can easily customize it to your preference. If you enjoy a kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for added heat.
🥘More Easy Casseroles
If you loved the Upside Down Pizza Casserole, you'll definitely want to try these other comforting dishes that are perfect for cozy evenings at home.
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