Bubble Up Pizza Bake β Cheesy, Buttery & Packed with Pizza Flavor π§ππ₯
Tired of making pizza dough or rolling out crusts? Say hello to your new favorite way to enjoy pizza β without any kneading, shaping, or rising time!
The Bubble Up Pizza Bake is a genius shortcut recipe that uses refrigerated biscuit dough, seasoned ground beef (or pepperoni), melted butter, mozzarella cheese, and marinara sauce for an ultra-cheesy, bubbly baked dish that practically assembles itself.
As it bakes, the biscuit dough expands and rises around the savory filling, creating a beautiful layered effect β like a pull-apart pizza casserole thatβs perfect for family dinners, game nights, or potlucks.
Letβs dive into how to make this comforting, crowd-pleasing baked magic!
π§ Why Youβll Love This Bubble Up Pizza Bake
- No pizza dough required : Uses store-bought biscuit dough for convenience.
- Cheesy layers : Mozzarella melts into every bite as it bakes.
- Buttery, golden crust : The biscuits soak up flavor as they rise through the sauce and cheese.
- One-dish wonder : Minimal prep and cleanup β just assemble and bake!
- Great for sharing : Pull-apart style makes it perfect for groups.
π§Ύ Ingredients (Serves 6β8)
For the base:
- 1 lb ground beef or plant-based alternative (or use chopped pepperoni slices)
- 1 small onion , finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Β½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat lovers)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup marinara sauce or pizza sauce
For the bubble-up layers:
- 1 can (12 oz) refrigerated buttermilk biscuit dough , separated into individual rounds
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Β½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ΒΌ cup melted butter (for drizzling over the biscuits)
Optional toppings: sliced olives, mushrooms, bell peppers, or fresh basil after baking.
πͺ Equipment Needed
- 9Γ13-inch baking dish
- Skillet or frying pan
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring tools
- Spoon or spatula
- Aluminum foil or lid
π©βπ³ Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C) . Grease a 9Γ13-inch baking dish lightly with non-stick spray or butter.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
In a skillet over medium heat:
- Brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add chopped onion , minced garlic , Italian seasoning , red pepper flakes , and salt and pepper .
- Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes . Set aside.
Tip: If using pepperoni or plant-based meat, skip the cooking step β just layer directly!
Step 3: Layer the Biscuits and Cheese
In the prepared baking dish:
- Pour the warm pizza mixture evenly across the bottom of the pan.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
- Arrange biscuit pieces on top in a single layer β donβt press them down.
- Drizzle each biscuit round with melted butter .
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously over everything.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden & Bubbly
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes .
Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15β20 minutes , or until the biscuits are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly crisp on top.
Step 5: Let Cool Slightly and Serve
Let the Bubble Up Pizza Bake rest for 5β10 minutes before serving β this helps it set and makes it easier to slice or pull apart.
Sprinkle with fresh basil or oregano if desired.
Serve hot and watch it disappear!
π Serving Suggestions
- With a side of garlic breadsticks or toasted baguette
- Alongside a crisp green salad or Caesar salad
- Try it with a dollop of ranch dressing or garlic aioli for dipping.
- Stack a few biscuit bites on a plate for individual βmini pizzasβ .
- Pair with a cold beer or sparkling soda for the ultimate comfort combo.
π₯‘ Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days .
- Freezer: Freeze cooled portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months . Thaw before reheating.
- Make Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate overnight β bake in the morning for brunch.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300Β°F (150Β°C) or toaster oven for best results.
β Expert Tips for Success
- Use refrigerated biscuit dough , not crescent rolls β the texture is key.
- Donβt stir or mix after baking β let the dough rise naturally while baking.
- Want extra spice? Add a few drops of hot sauce to the sauce layer .
- Make it vegetarian : Skip the meat and add spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers.
- Swap mozzarella with cheddar or Gouda for a richer flavor twist.
π§ Nutritional Highlights
This dish may be indulgent, but it still offers satisfying nutrition:
- Ground beef delivers iron and protein for energy and muscle support.
- Mozzarella and Parmesan add calcium and healthy fats.
- Onion and garlic support digestion and immunity.
- Enjoy in moderation β especially when paired with a light salad or steamed veggies.
π Final Thoughts
The Bubble Up Pizza Bake proves that you donβt need fancy techniques or hours in the kitchen to enjoy rich, comforting flavors. With its gooey cheese, crispy biscuit tops, and hearty pizza base, itβs the kind of dish that brings smiles, second helpings, and requests for seconds before the first bite is even done.
Whether youβre feeding a hungry crowd, looking for a quick weeknight dinner, or craving something warm and cheesy after a long day, this recipe brings bold flavor straight to your table β no pizza stone required.
So grab your baking dish, separate those biscuit rounds, and get ready to fall in love with this bubbling, golden, cheesy masterpiece!