Name: Meatzza Casserole: Easy & Flavorful
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-483754H8M5S
Total time: PT-483754H8M5S
Cuisine: American-Italian
Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs ground beef or ground turkey; 2 large eggs; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 20-25 pepperoni slices; ½ cup sliced green bell peppers; ½ cup sliced mushrooms; ¼ cup sliced black olives; ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love the taste of pizza but want something even more satisfying and protein-packed, this meatzza casserole is the perfect dish. This recipe swaps out the traditional doughy crust for a savory ground meat base, making it a great low-carb and keto-friendly alternative. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and a surefire way to please both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this meatzza casserole is a must-try.

Ingredients

Ground beef or ground turkey
Eggs
Parmesan cheese
Italian seasoning
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt
Black pepper
Marinara sauce
Mozzarella cheese
Pepperoni slices
Green bell peppers
Mushrooms
Olives
Red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Meat Base – In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, eggs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Form the Crust – Spread the meat mixture evenly in the greased baking dish, pressing it down to form a solid base.
Bake the Base – Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and slightly firm to the touch.
Drain Excess Liquid – If any grease or liquid accumulates on top of the meat, carefully drain it off to ensure the casserole remains firm.
Add Sauce and Toppings – Spread a generous layer of marinara sauce over the baked meat base, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across the surface.
Layer on the Toppings – Arrange pepperoni slices, bell peppers, mushrooms, and olives on top of the cheese. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like extra heat.
Final Bake – Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cool and Serve – Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Variations

Meat Options: Use a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage for a richer flavor.
Dairy-Free: Swap mozzarella for a dairy-free cheese alternative or simply omit cheese altogether.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat base with a layer of roasted eggplant or zucchini slices.
Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a kick.
Different Toppings: Try bacon bits, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes for a unique twist.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meat base in advance, store it in the fridge, and add the toppings just before baking.

2. Can I use ground chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey both work well and keep the dish leaner.

3. How do I make it more crispy?

Baking the meat base a little longer and draining excess liquid helps achieve a firmer, crispier crust.

4. Can I use store-bought pizza sauce instead of marinara?

Yes, store-bought pizza sauce works just as well and adds extra pizza flavor.

5. What can I serve with meatzza casserole?

A side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread make excellent accompaniments.

6. Is this casserole keto-friendly?

Yes, this dish is naturally low in carbs and perfect for a keto diet.

7. Can I make it without eggs?

Eggs help bind the meat base, but you can try a flax egg or omit them if needed, though the texture may be softer.

8. How do I keep the cheese from burning?

Cover the dish loosely with foil if the cheese starts to brown too quickly.

9. Can I use different cheeses?

Of course! Try provolone, cheddar, or gouda for a different flavor profile.

10. Can I add more vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to load it up with spinach, onions, tomatoes, or any other veggies you like.

Conclusion

This meatzza casserole is a delicious, protein-packed alternative to traditional pizza. With its easy preparation and customizable ingredients, it’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Try it out and enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal that everyone will love!

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