Treat your taste buds to a healthier option with our Crustless Pizza Bake. This creative take on traditional pizza captures the essence of your favorite flavors, reimagined in a crust-free, wholesome dish.
With a blend of savory marinara, melted mozzarella cheese, and a variety of premium toppings, this dish delivers deliciousness while catering to a range of dietary needs.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or sausage, or a combination of both
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (optional)
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or sausage over medium heat. Once cooked, drain any excess fat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
Combine Tomato Ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and pizza sauce, making sure everything is well mixed.
Season: Add the oregano, basil, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Optional Veggies: If you’re adding olives, bell peppers, or mushrooms, now’s the time to stir them into the meat sauce mixture.
Bake: Pour the mixture into a baking dish, then evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
Cook: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Tips:
- Customize this dish by adding your favorite pizza toppings.
- For a low-carb option, swap the beef or sausage for ground turkey or chicken and skip the optional veggies.
