Bubble Up Biscuit Pizza Casserole is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines the comforting flavors of pizza with the soft, flaky texture of buttermilk biscuits. This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings, offering a satisfying and hearty meal that everyone will love.

Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite
This dish has become a family favorite because it’s customizable, kid-friendly, and quick to prepare. The combination of gooey cheese, flavorful toppings, and the unique texture of baked biscuit dough creates a meal that appeals to all ages. Plus, it’s a great way to involve the whole family in the cooking process—children especially enjoy arranging the toppings!

The Convenience of Using Refrigerated Biscuits
Using refrigerated buttermilk biscuits as the base for this casserole adds convenience and speed to the preparation process. There’s no need to worry about making dough from scratch, which significantly reduces prep time without compromising on taste or texture. This convenience makes it an ideal recipe for busy households.

Understanding the Key Ingredients

Refrigerated Buttermilk Biscuits

Types of Refrigerated Biscuits and Why Buttermilk Biscuits are Recommended:
Buttermilk biscuits are recommended for this recipe due to their rich flavor and tender crumb, which complements the savory pizza toppings. The slight tang from the buttermilk adds depth to the dish, making it more flavorful. While there are various types of refrigerated biscuits available, such as flaky layers or jumbo biscuits, buttermilk biscuits provide the best balance of flavor and texture for this casserole.

Potential Substitutions if Buttermilk Biscuits are Unavailable:
If buttermilk biscuits are not available, regular refrigerated biscuits can be used as a substitute. However, to mimic the tangy flavor, you can brush the biscuits with a mixture of melted butter and a small amount of vinegar or lemon juice before baking. Alternatively, homemade biscuit dough or even pizza dough can be used, though these options may alter the overall texture and cooking time.

Pizza Sauce

Discussing the Importance of Quality Pizza Sauce:
The pizza sauce is a key component in this dish, providing the foundational flavor that ties all the ingredients together. A high-quality pizza sauce, whether store-bought or homemade, can make a significant difference in the taste of the casserole. Look for sauces with a rich tomato flavor, balanced seasoning, and no added sugar for the best results.

Options for Homemade vs. Store-Bought Pizza Sauce:
Store-bought pizza sauce offers convenience and is perfectly acceptable for this recipe. However, if you have the time, making your own pizza sauce allows you to control the flavor and ingredients, avoiding preservatives and excess salt. A simple homemade pizza sauce can be made by simmering crushed tomatoes with garlic, oregano, basil, and a pinch of sugar until thickened.

Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

The Role of Mozzarella in This Dish:
Mozzarella cheese is the classic choice for pizza dishes due to its excellent melting properties and mild, creamy flavor. In this casserole, mozzarella binds the ingredients together, creating a gooey, cheesy layer that contrasts beautifully with the fluffy biscuit base and savory toppings.

Exploring Other Cheese Options (Cheddar, Provolone, etc.):
While mozzarella is the go-to cheese for this recipe, you can experiment with other cheeses to add different flavors and textures. Cheddar can add a sharp, tangy note, while provolone offers a slightly smokier taste. For a more gourmet twist, consider using a combination of cheeses like fontina, gouda, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan on top for added depth and a crispy finish.

Pizza Toppings

Common Toppings (Pepperoni, Italian Sausage):
The classic combination of pepperoni and Italian sausage is a favorite for this casserole, providing a satisfying mix of spicy and savory flavors. The toppings are essential in defining the pizza character of this dish and can be adjusted according to your family’s preferences.

How to Customize Toppings Based on Dietary Preferences (Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, etc.):
This casserole is highly customizable, making it easy to adapt for different dietary needs. For a vegetarian version, consider using toppings like mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives, and spinach. If you need a gluten-free option, make sure to use gluten-free biscuits and verify that all toppings and the sauce are gluten-free. You can also add or substitute toppings to suit your taste, such as using turkey sausage instead of pork for a leaner option, or adding pineapple and ham for a sweet and savory twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions and Tips

Preparation and Assembly

Preheating and Greasing

Why Proper Preheating is Essential for Even Baking:
Preheating your oven to the correct temperature before baking is crucial for achieving consistent results in any recipe, especially with a dish like Bubble Up Biscuit Pizza Casserole. Proper preheating ensures that the biscuits start cooking as soon as they’re placed in the oven, which helps them rise evenly and prevents them from becoming soggy or undercooked. Baking in a preheated oven allows the heat to distribute uniformly around the casserole, leading to a perfectly golden and bubbly finish.

The Best Methods for Greasing the Baking Dish:
Greasing the baking dish is an important step to prevent the biscuit dough from sticking to the pan, which could lead to tearing or difficulty in serving the casserole. The best method for greasing your 9×13 baking dish is to use a generous amount of non-stick spray or to manually apply a thin layer of softened butter or oil to the bottom and sides of the dish. This creates a smooth surface that allows the dough to cook evenly and makes cleanup easier. For an extra flavor boost, consider using a garlic-infused oil or a flavored cooking spray, which can add a subtle hint of taste to the dish.

Preparing the Biscuit Dough

Techniques for Cutting the Biscuits into Quarters or Bite-Size Pieces:
Once you’ve opened the cans of refrigerated buttermilk biscuits, it’s time to prepare them for the casserole. The easiest method is to use a pizza cutter or a sharp knife to slice each biscuit into quarters or smaller bite-size pieces. This step is crucial because it allows the biscuits to cook more evenly and ensures that each bite of the casserole has a good ratio of dough to toppings. When cutting the biscuits, aim for uniform sizes so they bake consistently. If using a knife, make sure it’s sharp to avoid squishing the dough, which could affect its texture.

Importance of Evenly Spreading the Dough in the Dish:
After cutting the biscuit dough, it’s important to spread the pieces evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. This step is essential because it ensures that the dough cooks uniformly, preventing some pieces from being undercooked while others become too brown or crispy. Start by placing the dough pieces in a single layer, making sure that they are evenly distributed across the entire surface of the dish. If necessary, lightly press the pieces to ensure they cover the entire bottom without too much overlap.
Tips on Avoiding Over-Stacking and Ensuring Even Cooking:
To achieve the best results, avoid over-stacking the biscuit pieces, particularly in the center of the dish, where they may take longer to cook. Over-stacking can lead to uneven baking, with some parts of the casserole remaining doughy while others are fully cooked or even overcooked. If you find that some biscuit pieces are overlapping, try to place the extra pieces closer to the edges of the pan, where the heat is more intense, ensuring they cook through properly. This technique helps maintain a consistent texture throughout the casserole, with every bite featuring perfectly baked biscuit dough.

Layering the Ingredients

Spreading the Pizza Sauce:
Once the biscuit dough is evenly distributed in the baking dish, it’s time to add the pizza sauce. Using a spoon or a small spatula, spread the sauce evenly over the dough, ensuring that every piece of biscuit is covered. This helps to infuse the dough with flavor and prevents it from drying out during baking. The key to even distribution is to start with a small amount of sauce in the center and gradually work your way outward, adding more sauce as needed. Be careful not to overload the dough with too much sauce, as this can make the casserole soggy. Aim for a thin, even layer that complements the dough without overwhelming it.

Adding the Cheese

The Best Way to Layer Mozzarella to Ensure Melty, Golden Cheese:
After the sauce is applied, it’s time to add the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mozzarella is the star of the dish when it comes to creating that signature pizza-like experience, with its gooey, melty texture and mild flavor. To achieve a beautifully melted and slightly browned cheese layer, sprinkle the mozzarella evenly over the sauce, making sure to cover the entire surface of the casserole. For a more robust cheesy experience, feel free to use a bit more cheese, but keep in mind that too much cheese can create excess grease or prevent the dough from cooking properly underneath.

Placing the Toppings

Strategic Placement for Even Cooking and Flavor Distribution:
Finally, it’s time to add your chosen pizza toppings. Whether you’re using classic pepperoni and Italian sausage or a combination of your favorite vegetables, the key is to distribute them evenly across the top of the casserole. Start by placing larger or heavier toppings first, followed by smaller or lighter ingredients. This layering ensures that the toppings cook evenly and don’t weigh down the cheese too much. Consider spreading toppings more densely toward the edges of the dish, where the heat is strongest, to achieve a balanced flavor and texture throughout.
Tips on Balancing the Amount of Toppings to Avoid Sogginess:
When adding toppings, it’s important to strike a balance between flavor and texture. Too many toppings can weigh down the cheese and sauce, making the casserole soggy, while too few can result in a bland dish. For best results, use a moderate amount of toppings, ensuring they are evenly spaced and not piled on top of each other. If using particularly watery vegetables, like tomatoes or mushrooms, consider pre-cooking or patting them dry before adding them to the casserole to reduce excess moisture.

Layering the Ingredients

Spreading the Pizza Sauce

How to Evenly Distribute the Sauce for Consistent Flavor:
Once the biscuit dough is laid out evenly in the baking dish, the next step is to spread the pizza sauce over the top. The key to achieving consistent flavor throughout the casserole is to evenly distribute the sauce so that every piece of biscuit gets an equal coating. Start by placing a generous spoonful of sauce in the center of the dish. Then, using the back of a spoon or a small spatula, gently spread the sauce outward in circular motions, working towards the edges. Make sure to cover all the biscuit pieces, paying special attention to the corners and edges, which can sometimes be overlooked. If you notice any areas where the sauce is too thick, spread it out to thinner areas to ensure an even layer across the entire dish.

Adding the Cheese

The Best Way to Layer Mozzarella to Ensure Melty, Golden Cheese:
After spreading the sauce, it’s time to layer on the shredded mozzarella cheese. For that perfect melty, golden cheese layer, it’s important to distribute the cheese evenly across the surface. Start by sprinkling the cheese from one end of the dish to the other, ensuring that the entire surface is covered. Aim for an even layer that’s thick enough to create a cheesy, bubbly topping but not so heavy that it overwhelms the dough underneath. If you prefer a more robust cheese flavor, you can add a little extra, but be cautious of adding too much, as it can create excess grease or prevent proper browning. To achieve a beautifully golden finish, consider lightly pressing the cheese down with your hands to ensure it adheres to the sauce, which will help it melt evenly as it bakes.

Placing the Toppings

Strategic Placement for Even Cooking and Flavor Distribution:
Toppings are what give this casserole its pizza character, so it’s important to place them strategically for even cooking and balanced flavor. Begin by adding your heavier or more substantial toppings, like pepperoni or sausage, distributing them evenly across the dish. Next, layer on lighter toppings, such as vegetables, ensuring they are spread out to avoid overcrowding any one area. Placing the toppings evenly helps them cook uniformly and ensures that every bite of the casserole is flavorful.

Tips on Balancing the Amount of Toppings to Avoid Sogginess:
When it comes to toppings, less is often more. Overloading the casserole with too many toppings can cause it to become soggy, especially if the toppings release a lot of moisture during cooking. To avoid this, stick to a moderate amount of toppings, aiming for a single, even layer across the dish. If you’re using vegetables like mushrooms or tomatoes, which can release moisture, consider lightly pre-cooking them or patting them dry before adding them to the casserole. This step will help reduce excess moisture and keep your casserole from becoming too wet.

Baking and Finishing Touches

Optimal Baking Time

How to Know When the Casserole is Perfectly Baked (Checking the Center):
Baking the Bubble Up Biscuit Pizza Casserole to perfection requires careful attention to the timing and appearance of the dish. The recommended baking time is 25-30 minutes at 350°F (175°C). However, the best way to know if the casserole is fully baked is to check the center, as this area takes the longest to cook. Start checking the casserole at the 25-minute mark by inserting a toothpick or a knife into the center of the dish. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the casserole is done. Additionally, look for visual cues: the cheese should be bubbly and golden brown, and the edges of the biscuits should be slightly crisp.
Adjusting Time for Different Ovens:
Ovens can vary in their heating accuracy, so it’s important to adjust the baking time based on your specific oven’s performance. If your oven tends to run hot, check the casserole a few minutes earlier to avoid overcooking. Conversely, if your oven runs cool, you may need to extend the baking time by a few minutes. Using an oven thermometer can help ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for consistent results.

Post-Baking Cooling

Importance of Letting the Casserole Cool Before Serving:
After removing the casserole from the oven, it’s tempting to dig in right away, but allowing it to cool for at least 5-10 minutes is crucial. This resting time lets the casserole set, making it easier to cut and serve without the ingredients sliding apart. Cooling also helps the flavors meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Additionally, the casserole will continue to cook slightly as it cools, ensuring the center is fully cooked.

Serving Suggestions

Ideas for Sides or Accompaniments:
Bubble Up Biscuit Pizza Casserole is a hearty dish that pairs well with lighter sides to balance the richness. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette, which complements the savory flavors of the casserole. Garlic breadsticks or a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans are also excellent choices. For a complete meal, add a simple pasta salad or a bowl of soup, such as tomato basil or minestrone.
How to Store Leftovers and Best Practices for Reheating:
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate and cover lightly with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. For a crisper texture, reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Be sure to cover the casserole loosely with foil to prevent the cheese from burning. If freezing leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store them for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Variations and Customizations

Customizing for Dietary Preferences

Vegetarian Version

Suggested Vegetarian Toppings (Mushrooms, Bell Peppers, Olives):
For a vegetarian version of the Bubble Up Biscuit Pizza Casserole, there are plenty of delicious topping options to choose from. Mushrooms add a rich, earthy flavor that pairs well with the tangy pizza sauce and gooey cheese. Bell peppers, with their sweet crunch, provide both color and texture, making the casserole visually appealing and satisfying to eat. Olives bring a briny, salty taste that complements the other ingredients, adding depth to the flavor profile. You can also include other vegetables like onions, spinach, or artichoke hearts. Just be sure to sauté any vegetables that release a lot of moisture, like mushrooms or spinach, to prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.

Gluten-Free Option

Recommendations for Gluten-Free Biscuits and Sauce:
Creating a gluten-free version of this casserole is simple with a few substitutions. Use gluten-free refrigerated biscuits, which are now widely available in most grocery stores. These biscuits offer the same convenience and texture as regular ones but without the gluten. Ensure that the pizza sauce you choose is also gluten-free by checking the label for any hidden sources of gluten, such as certain thickeners or additives. You can also make your own gluten-free pizza sauce to have full control over the ingredients. Additionally, if you need gluten-free toppings, double-check processed items like pepperoni or sausage to ensure they meet gluten-free standards.

Low-Carb/Keto Variation

Tips for Making a Lower-Carb Version Using Alternative Ingredients:
To adapt this casserole for a low-carb or keto diet, substitute the biscuit dough with a low-carb dough option, such as fathead dough, which is made from mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, egg, and almond flour. This alternative is both low in carbs and high in fat, making it ideal for keto dieters. You can also reduce the amount of pizza sauce or use a low-carb sauce to further lower the carb count. For toppings, stick to low-carb vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers, and choose high-fat options like pepperoni or Italian sausage to keep the dish keto-friendly.

Creative Topping Ideas

International Flavors

Using Toppings Inspired by Global Cuisines (Mexican, Mediterranean):
Take your Bubble Up Biscuit Pizza Casserole on a global culinary journey by experimenting with toppings inspired by international cuisines. For a Mexican twist, use taco-seasoned ground beef, cheddar cheese, jalapeños, and a sprinkle of cilantro, topped with sour cream and avocado slices after baking. For a Mediterranean version, consider using toppings like feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, artichoke hearts, and a drizzle of olive oil, finished with fresh basil or oregano.

Seasonal Variations

Incorporating Seasonal Produce for a Fresh Twist:
Another way to customize this casserole is by incorporating seasonal produce. In the summer, try using fresh tomatoes, zucchini, and basil for a bright, fresh flavor. In the fall, opt for roasted butternut squash, caramelized onions, and sage for a comforting, earthy dish. Winter might inspire the use of hearty greens like kale or Swiss chard, combined with roasted garlic and mushrooms. Spring could bring toppings like asparagus, peas, and fresh herbs for a light, refreshing casserole.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Homemade Biscuit Dough Instead of Refrigerated Biscuits?

Yes, you can absolutely use homemade biscuit dough instead of refrigerated biscuits for this casserole. However, there are a few adjustments to keep in mind. Homemade dough may rise more than store-bought refrigerated biscuits, so be sure to roll it out slightly thinner to avoid an overly thick base. You may also need to increase the baking time slightly, as homemade dough can take longer to cook through. Keep an eye on the center of the casserole to ensure it’s fully baked before removing it from the oven.

What Are Some Good Vegetarian Toppings for This Casserole?

For a vegetarian-friendly version of the Bubble Up Biscuit Pizza Casserole, consider using a variety of flavorful vegetables. Some great combinations include mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, spinach, and olives. For added richness, you can include artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers. These toppings not only add color and texture but also pair well with the tangy pizza sauce and gooey cheese, making the casserole both hearty and satisfying.

How Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

To make this casserole ahead of time, simply assemble the entire dish up to the point of baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before placing it in the preheated oven. This ensures even baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is still cold when it goes into the oven.

Can This Recipe Be Doubled for a Larger Crowd?

Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled to feed a larger group. Use a larger baking dish or divide the ingredients between two 9×13-inch pans. When doubling the recipe, the baking time may need to be slightly increased to ensure that the center of the casserole is fully cooked. Check the center for doneness and continue baking until the biscuits are cooked through and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftovers?

To reheat leftovers, the best method is to use the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the leftover casserole on a baking sheet, and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain the casserole’s texture and prevents it from becoming soggy. If you’re in a hurry, you can also microwave individual portions on medium power for 1-2 minutes, though the biscuits may lose some of their crispiness.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Wrapping Up

Bubble Up Biscuit Pizza Casserole is a simple yet versatile dish that brings the flavors of pizza into a convenient, crowd-pleasing casserole. With the ease of using refrigerated biscuits, this recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability—whether you stick to the classic pepperoni and sausage combo or experiment with vegetarian toppings, gluten-free options, or international flavors, the possibilities are endless.

We encourage you to try your own variations, tailoring the recipe to suit your family’s tastes and dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to get creative with the toppings and sauces, and feel free to share your results and feedback with others. Cooking is all about exploration and enjoyment, and this recipe offers a great starting point for delicious experimentation.

If you enjoyed this recipe, consider exploring other bubble-up casseroles, such as bubble-up enchiladas or bubble-up breakfast casseroles. These dishes share the same concept of using biscuit dough as a base and offer a wide range of flavors and meal options. Whether it’s dinner or breakfast, these casseroles are sure to become family favorites, just like the Bubble Up Biscuit Pizza Casserole.

Bubble Up Biscuit Pizza Casserole

Author: Christine

Print Recipe

Description

This Bubble Up Biscuit Pizza Casserole is a fun and family-friendly dish that combines the best parts of pizza and a comforting casserole. Using refrigerated buttermilk biscuits as the base, this recipe is quick to prepare and highly customizable. The biscuits “bubble up” as they bake, creating a light and fluffy texture that’s topped with savory pizza sauce, gooey mozzarella cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings. Perfect for a busy weeknight meal or a casual gathering, this casserole is sure to become a new family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cans refrigerated buttermilk biscuits
1 (15oz) jar pizza sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Pizza toppings of choice (We love pepperoni & Italian sausage)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350° F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
Open up both cans of biscuits and use a pizza cutter or knife to cut them into quarters or small bite size pieces.

Evenly place the dough onto the bottom of your prepared dish. Try to assemble them in a single layer, placing any that need to be slightly stacked near the edges of the pan where they bake the quickest.
Use a spoon or small spatula to evenly spread the pizza sauce over top and then sprinkle on the shredded mozzarella cheese along with the pizza toppings of your choice.
Bake uncovered 25-30 minutes or until the dough is cooked through and the cheese starts to brown. The center takes the longest to cook so check there first for doneness.

Allow the casserole to cool for at least 5 minutes and enjoy!

Notes

Customization: This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to use whatever toppings you love most. From classic pepperoni and sausage to a variety of vegetables or even a mix of cheeses, you can easily tailor this dish to suit your taste.
Homemade vs. Store-bought Ingredients: While refrigerated biscuits and store-bought pizza sauce make this recipe quick and easy, feel free to use homemade versions if you prefer. Homemade dough and sauce can add a personal touch and may enhance the overall flavor.

Dietary Adjustments: This casserole can be adapted to meet various dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free biscuits and sauce. For a lower-carb option, consider using a low-carb dough alternative.
Leftovers: This casserole stores well and can be easily reheated, making it great for meal prep or enjoying leftovers the next day. Reheat in the oven for the best results.