Mini Pizza Casseroles

Mini Pizza Casseroles

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef or sausage (optional)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) pizza sauce or marinara sauce
• 1 cup sliced black olives (optional)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Mini pepperoni slices (optional)
• Pasta or biscuit dough (optional for the base)
• Foil containers for baking

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers, cooking until they are soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Season the mixture: Stir in the pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to combine the flavors. If using olives, stir them in now.
4. Prepare the base (optional):
   • If using pasta, cook it according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and distribute evenly among the foil containers.
   • If using biscuit dough, press a small piece into the bottom of each foil container to create a thin layer.
5. Assemble the casseroles:
   • Spoon the meat and sauce mixture over the pasta or biscuit dough in each foil container.
   • Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella cheese on top. Add any additional toppings, such as mini pepperoni slices.
   • Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake: Place the foil containers on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
7. Serve: Allow the mini pizza casseroles to cool slightly before serving. They can be served directly in the foil containers for easy cleanup.

Notes:

• Customizable: You can mix and match toppings according to your preferences. Add mushrooms, jalapenos, or other favorite pizza toppings.
• Vegetarian option: Skip the meat and load up with extra veggies or plant-based protein alternatives.

These mini pizza casseroles are perfect for a quick dinner, parties, or meal prep. They’re fun to make and even more fun to eat! Enjoy!