Pizza Puff Casserole: A Family Favorite
Overview
Delight your family with this scrumptious Pizza Puff Casserole, a fantastic alternative to traditional pizza that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. This easy-to-make dish combines classic pizza flavors in a fluffy, satisfying casserole form. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings and pizza sauce for a truly unique experience!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggs | 3 |
| All-purpose flour | 2/3 cup |
| Milk | 3/4 cup |
| Half-and-half cream | 2 cups |
| Butter (melted) | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Cayenne pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried oregano | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Dried basil | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Tomato sauce | 1/3 cup |
| Red bell peppers (chopped) | 1/2 cup |
| Green bell pepper (chopped) | 1/2 cup |
| Black olives (sliced) | 1/4 cup |
| Mozzarella cheese (shredded) | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 383.3 |
| Total Fat | 24.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 194 mg |
| Sodium | 1112 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 21.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.4 g |
| Sugars | 1.6 g |
| Protein | 18.4 g |
Cooking Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position the oven rack in the second-lowest position.
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Prepare the Baking Pan: Grease a 9 x 9-inch or an 11 x 7-inch baking pan to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick during baking.
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Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, flour, and milk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
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Add Flavor: Stir in the melted butter, salt, cayenne pepper, and chopped onion into the egg mixture until fully incorporated.
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Pour the Mixture: Carefully pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
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Prepare the Sauce Mixture: In a separate small bowl, combine the dried oregano, basil, garlic powder, and tomato sauce. Gently drizzle this mixture over the batter, using a knife to swirl it gently to create a marbled effect. Reserve a couple of tablespoons of sauce for topping later.
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Add Toppings: Sprinkle your choice of pepperoni or salami, along with the chopped bell peppers, black olives, or any other desired toppings over the sauce. For extra flavor, dot with a bit more tomato sauce if you like.
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Top with Cheese: Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole, ensuring even coverage.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy the comforting flavors of pizza in a delightful new form!
Tips for Success
- Experiment with different toppings, such as mushrooms, spinach, or pepperoncini, to create your ultimate flavor combination.
- Use your favorite store-bought or homemade pizza sauce to save time and tailor the dish to your taste preferences.
This Pizza Puff Casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, providing a comforting meal that your family will love. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
