If you love all things pizza but are looking for a fun and comforting twist, you have to try this Upside Down Pizza Casserole Recipe. It takes all your favorite pizza toppings and flavors, but flips them in a clever, cozy casserole form that’s perfect for weeknights or feeding a crowd. The biscuits bake right on top of that rich, saucy sausage and veggie mixture, creating a bubbly, golden crust that melts perfectly with gooey mozzarella and optional pepperoni. It’s like the perfect pizza and skillet dinner combined into one unforgettable dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Upside Down Pizza Casserole Recipe is delightfully simple, featuring ingredients that bring fantastic flavor and texture without any fuss. From savory sausage to fresh veggies and melty cheese, each component is essential for building layers of deliciousness and keeping that comforting pizza vibe.
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (or ground beef, or a mix): The hearty protein base that adds savory depth and richness.
- 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion: Adds sweetness and a tender bite that balances the meat perfectly.
- 1/2 cup chopped red or green bell pepper: Brings a fresh pop of color and a mild crunch for texture contrast.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Simple seasonings that elevate all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce, giving it that luscious, clingy quality.
- 1 (15-oz) can diced tomatoes, not drained: Adds juicy acidity and authentic tomato flavor.
- 1 (4-oz) can mushrooms, drained: Earthy and savory, boosting the umami factor in every bite.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or fresh basil/oregano if you have it): Brings classic Italian herb flavors that scream pizza night.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic warmth without overwhelming.
- 1/4-1/3 cup water or chicken broth: Loosens the sauce slightly while adding extra depth if using broth.
- 1 (16-oz) tube refrigerated biscuits: The crowning glory that bakes golden on top, soaking in all those tasty juices.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melty and stretchy, it’s the pizza cheese we all crave.
- Optional: pepperoni slices: For an extra dose of classic pizza flavor.
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese: A finishing sprinkle for sharp, salty flair.
How to Make Upside Down Pizza Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat and Veggies
Start by heating a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat and adding your ground Italian sausage or beef, chopped onion, and bell pepper. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then cook it all together until the meat is browned and cooked through. Browning is key here—it develops flavor and locks in that savory essence. Once cooked, be sure to drain any excess fat to keep your casserole from getting greasy.
Step 2: Create the Flavorful Sauce
Next, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and stir it into the meat and veggies to help thicken the sauce. Then pour in your undrained diced tomatoes and drained mushrooms, followed by the Italian seasoning and garlic powder. Stir everything well to combine those comforting Italian flavors. Add your water or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it bubble until the sauce thickens just enough to cling to every bite.
Step 3: Layer the Biscuits and Cheese
Once your sausage mixture is bubbling and thickened, it’s time for the “upside down” magic. Pull your biscuit dough out of the package and arrange the individual biscuits pieces evenly on top of the sausage mixture in the skillet. Don’t worry about perfection; rustic and cozy is the goal here! Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the biscuits—this meltiness is what takes the casserole to the next level. Add your pepperoni slices now if you’re using them for an extra pepperoni punch.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop the skillet into a preheated 400 degree oven and bake uncovered for 14 to 16 minutes. Watch for the biscuits to turn a beautiful golden brown and the filling to bubble up happily around them. That irresistible aroma will fill your kitchen and have everyone asking when dinner is ready. When the timer’s up, let the casserole rest for about five minutes—it helps it set and makes serving easier. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan over the top just before serving for a final cheesy flourish.
How to Serve Upside Down Pizza Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Keep it simple with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh basil right before serving. These garnishes add brightness and a touch of elegance to this hearty, homey meal. If you want to get playful, toss on some crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil for an extra flavor kick.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a meal in itself, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or sautéed garlic spinach can add freshness and balance out the richness. Roasted veggies like zucchini or asparagus also make delicious companions, providing color and nutrients to round out the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the casserole straight from the skillet for a rustic look that’s perfect for casual family dinners. For a more formal touch, carefully scoop portions onto plates and add a small side of marinara for dipping biscuit edges. You could even turn leftovers into fun mini skillet pizzas the next day by reheating individual servings and topping with extra cheese and fresh basil.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Upside Down Pizza Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Just cover the skillet tightly or transfer leftovers to a storage dish. The flavors meld even more as it rests, making next-day servings just as delicious.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of this casserole by wrapping them well in plastic wrap and foil or placing in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a quick and comforting meal later on.
Reheating
To warm up, place leftovers in a preheated 350 degree oven for about 15 minutes or until heated through. Reheating in the oven keeps the biscuits from getting soggy, preserving that lovely golden crust. You can also microwave in a pinch, but expect softer biscuit texture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of meat in this casserole?
Absolutely! While ground Italian sausage is traditional and full of flavor, you can swap in ground beef, turkey, or a mix depending on your preference. Just stick to the same amount to keep the balance right.
What if I don’t have refrigerated biscuits? Can I use homemade dough?
Yes, homemade biscuit dough or even pizza dough can work nicely. Just cut your dough into similar-sized pieces and arrange as directed. Keep in mind baking times might vary slightly depending on the dough’s thickness and moisture.
Is this casserole gluten free?
This recipe uses all-purpose flour and refrigerated biscuits which typically contain gluten. For a gluten-free version, substitute with gluten-free flour and biscuits or use a gluten-free pizza dough alternative.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage crumbles or load it up with extra veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, and peppers for a veggie-packed version that’s just as tasty.
How spicy is the casserole?
The casserole has gentle warmth from Italian sausage and seasonings but isn’t overly spicy. If you prefer spice, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce step to customize the heat level perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Upside Down Pizza Casserole Recipe is such a joyful way to enjoy classic pizza flavors without the fuss of making a traditional pie. It comes together quickly, feeds a crowd, and satisfies those cravings for something warm, cheesy, and comforting all at once. Whether weeknight dinner or weekend treat, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try—you’ll love the cozy twist it brings to pizza night!
Print
Upside Down Pizza Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Upside Down Pizza Casserole is a delicious, hearty one-pan meal combining savory seasoned sausage and vegetables in a rich tomato sauce, topped with fluffy biscuit dough and melted mozzarella cheese. Baked to golden perfection, it’s an easy and comforting twist on classic pizza flavors, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (OR ground beef, or a mix)
- 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion (about 1 small)
- 1/2 cup chopped red or green bell pepper (about 1 medium)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 (15-oz) can diced tomatoes, not drained
- 1 (4-oz) can mushrooms, drained
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (OR fresh basil/oregano if you have it)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4–1/3 cup water OR chicken broth
- 1 (16-oz) tube refrigerated biscuits
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional: pepperoni slices
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage and Vegetables: In a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground Italian sausage (or ground beef/mix), chopped onion, and chopped bell pepper. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the meat is browned and the vegetables are softened. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Prepare the Sauce: Stir the tablespoon of all-purpose flour into the browned meat and vegetable mixture until well combined. Add the undrained can of diced tomatoes, drained mushrooms, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Mix everything together thoroughly. Pour in 1/4 to 1/3 cup of water or chicken broth. Simmer the mixture until it becomes bubbly and slightly thickened. Remove the skillet from heat.
- Add the Biscuit Topping: Tear the refrigerated biscuit dough into pieces and arrange them evenly over the meat and vegetable mixture in the skillet. Then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top. If using, add pepperoni slices over the cheese layer.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the skillet in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C). Bake uncovered for 14 to 16 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes to set. Serve warm with optional grated Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef or a mixture of ground beef and sausage if preferred.
- If fresh herbs are available, use basil or oregano instead of Italian seasoning for a fresher flavor.
- Adjust the amount of water or chicken broth slightly to get the desired consistency of the sauce.
- Make sure to use an ovenproof skillet for seamless transition from stovetop to oven.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated but crispiness of biscuits may reduce.
- For a spicier version, add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture while cooking.
