Quick Description
This Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole is rich, saucy, and loaded with protein. Made with seasoned ground beef, tomato sauce, onions, olives, and a generous layer of melted mozzarella, it delivers all the flavors of pizza in an easy, fork-friendly bake. Perfect for meal prep, busy weeknights, or when you want comfort food without complicated steps.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 4–5
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: ~40 minutes
Ingredients List
Casserole Base
- 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups marinara or pizza sauce (low sugar if possible)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Toppings & Layers
- ½ cup sliced black olives
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan (optional, for extra flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Add Flavor
Add diced onion and garlic to the beef. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and marinara sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread the beef mixture evenly into a baking dish or foil pan. Sprinkle black olives over the top.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Cover generously with shredded mozzarella and optional cheddar or Parmesan.
Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Step 6: Rest & Serve
Let sit for 5 minutes before serving to set slightly.
Additional Notes
- Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end if you like extra browning on the cheese.
- Drain beef well to avoid excess liquid in the casserole.
- This reheats beautifully for leftovers.
Dietary Info
- High-Protein
- Low-Carb (use low-sugar sauce)
- Gluten-Free
- Keto-Friendly (with approved sauce)
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
- Ground Beef: Swap with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Cheese: Use part-skim mozzarella to reduce fat if desired.
- Sauce: Choose pizza sauce, marinara, or crushed tomatoes with seasoning.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Pizza Supreme: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or pepperoni slices
- Low-Carb Boost: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Fridge: Store leftovers up to 4 days in an airtight container
- Freezer: Freeze baked casserole up to 2 months
- Reheat: Oven or microwave until heated through
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 380–420
- Protein: 32–38 g
- Fat: 24–28 g
- Carbs: 6–9 g
- Sugar: 3–4 g
Optional Personal Story
This is one of those “throw-it-together and everyone asks for seconds” meals. It started as a quick fridge-clean-out dinner and turned into a regular rotation favorite—cheesy, filling, and perfect for busy nights.
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Save this Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole for your next easy dinner night. Simple ingredients, big flavor, and plenty of protein—comfort food done right.
