If you’re craving a mouthwatering comfort dish that combines all the best parts of pizza and cheeseburgers, then you’ve got to try the Ultimate Cheesy Pizza Burger Bake Recipe. This hearty casserole layers juicy seasoned beef, savory pepperoni, vibrant veggies, and two kinds of melty cheese over pillowy biscuit dough, creating a bubbling, golden-baked delight that’s bursting with flavor and texture in every bite. It’s the perfect meal to gather around with family or friends, promising rich satisfaction and just the right touch of indulgence!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role—bringing together classic pizza and burger tastes into one cozy, comforting bake. From the seasoned ground beef that packs savory depth to the colorful veggies adding freshness, these simple but essential components build layers of irresistible flavor and texture.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides the hearty, juicy base with rich beef flavor that defines the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the beef and seasonings perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle warmth and an aromatic touch that’s essential for that pizza-burger vibe.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings classic herby notes that tie the pizza elements together seamlessly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Offers a hint of spice and depth, balancing the rich cheese and meats.
- 1 (14 oz) jar pizza sauce: Infuses every layer with tangy tomato goodness, anchoring the dish’s pizza identity.
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni: Adds a slightly spicy, meaty punch that’s irresistible when baked.
- 1/4 cup diced red onion: Brings a mild sharpness and crunch for fresh contrast.
- 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper: Provides vibrant color and a sweet yet crisp bite.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly to create that stretchy, gooey cheese pull you dream of.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharper, savory layer beneath the mozzarella for complex cheesiness.
- 1 (8 oz) can refrigerated biscuit dough, cut into quarters: Acts as the soft, buttery bread base—light and golden when baked.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Lightly coats the biscuit pieces to help them brown beautifully and add richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Sprinkled on biscuits for that unmistakable Italian herb fragrance and flavor.
How to Make Ultimate Cheesy Pizza Burger Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Beef
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to keep everything from sticking. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with salt, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Stir frequently until the beef is browned and fully cooked, which usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. Once done, drain the excess grease to keep the bake from getting soggy.
Step 2: Mix in Your Pizza Flavors
To the warm beef, add the pizza sauce, sliced pepperoni, diced red onion, and green bell pepper. These elements introduce the bright, classic pizza toppings that elevate every forkful. Stir everything gently until combined, then remove the skillet from heat—your flavorful filling is ready to build your layers.
Step 3: Prepare the Biscuit Dough
In a large bowl, toss the quartered biscuit dough with olive oil and dried oregano. This step is crucial as the oil helps the biscuits bake to a crisp golden finish while oregano infuses each bite with aromatic herbs, giving the dish that fresh pizzeria touch right at home.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Spread half of the biscuit dough pieces evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish. Layer on half of the meat mixture, followed by half the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Repeat this layering process once more—biscuit dough, meat mixture, then the remaining cheeses—to build your incredible cheesy, meaty masterpiece.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish uncovered in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for the biscuits to turn a beautiful golden brown and the cheese to be fully melted and bubbling enticingly. Once baked, let your creation cool for 5 to 10 minutes—the perfect time for all those flavors to meld together and for the bake to set slightly for clean slices.
How to Serve Ultimate Cheesy Pizza Burger Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top to add a pop of color and fresh, herbal brightness that cuts through the richness. A drizzle of extra pizza sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes is fantastic for those who like a little extra kick.
Side Dishes
This dish stands well on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or a bowl of garlicky steamed broccoli provides a refreshing balance and adds much-needed greens to your meal. A light Caesar salad is also a classic companion that complements the cheesy, meaty flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the bake in individual ramekins or muffin tins for personal-sized portions. You can also turn leftovers into hearty sliders or scoop onto toasted garlic bread for a comforting after-school or game night snack. The versatility makes this recipe a genuine crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any uneaten bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers just as tasty, if not better, than the first serving.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
For reheating, place in a preheated 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly again. Avoid microwaving if possible, to keep that wonderful biscuit texture crispy rather than soggy.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well in the Ultimate Cheesy Pizza Burger Bake Recipe for a leaner option, though you might want to add a little extra seasoning to boost flavor.
What can I substitute for the biscuit dough?
If you prefer, you can use pizza dough or refrigerated crescent roll dough as alternatives; both will provide a different texture but still deliciously complement the layered bake.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids love the cheesy, familiar flavors and the fun layers. You can adjust the veggies or toppings according to their preferences for an easy weeknight family meal.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping the biscuit dough for a gluten-free dough option and checking all labels for gluten-free certification, you can enjoy this recipe without worry.
How spicy is this dish?
This bake has a mild spice level perfect for most palates, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or jalapeños to ramp up the heat if you like things spicy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting about sinking your fork into the Ultimate Cheesy Pizza Burger Bake Recipe—melty cheese, savory beef, and flavorful spices all wrapped up in golden biscuit dough. It’s a crowd-pleaser that turns everyday ingredients into something truly special. If you’re looking for a cozy, delicious meal that everyone will rave about, this recipe is your new go-to. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll soon become one of your favorite dishes to make again and again!
Print
Ultimate Cheesy Pizza Burger Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
The Ultimate Cheesy Pizza Burger Bake combines all your favorite pizza and burger flavors into one hearty, delicious casserole. Ground beef seasoned with Italian spices is simmered in rich pizza sauce, layered with pepperoni, colorful veggies, and two kinds of melty cheese, all baked atop crispy, golden biscuit dough. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner, this easy-to-make dish offers a comforting fusion of cheesy goodness and meaty flavor that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (14 oz) jar pizza sauce
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper
Cheese and Dough Layers
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (8 oz) can refrigerated biscuit dough, cut into quarters
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the ground beef with salt, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess grease for a cleaner, less oily dish.
- Add Pizza Flavors: Stir the pizza sauce, sliced pepperoni, diced red onion, and green bell pepper into the cooked ground beef. Mix well, then remove the skillet from heat to let the flavors meld.
- Prepare Biscuit Dough: In a large bowl, toss the biscuit dough pieces with olive oil and dried oregano to evenly coat them with flavor and help them crisp during baking.
- Assemble Layers: Spread half of the biscuit dough pieces evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer half of the meat mixture over the dough, followed by half of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Repeat with the remaining dough pieces, meat, and cheeses to create a hearty, layered bake.
- Bake Until Golden: Place the assembled dish into the oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the biscuit pieces are golden brown, fully cooked, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the bake to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting time helps the layers set for easier serving and enhanced flavor melding.
Notes
- You can swap the pepperoni for cooked sausage, mushrooms, or black olives to customize your pizza flavors.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the meat mixture.
