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This bubble up pizza transforms refrigerated biscuits into a comforting, family-friendly meal that delivers all the pizza flavors you love in a fraction of the time. The buttery biscuits bubble up through the sauce and cheese creating delightful pockets of softness surrounded by crispy, cheesy edges.
I created this recipe one evening when my kids were begging for pizza but I didn't have time to make dough from scratch. This happy accident has become our Thursday night tradition, and the kids actually prefer it to delivery pizza now.
Ingredients
- 2 Cans Biscuits: Each biscuit provides the perfect pillowy base when cut into quarters
- 1.5 Cups Tomato Sauce: Choose a good quality sauce for authentic pizza flavor
- 1/2 Cup Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty saltiness that elevates the dish
- 2 Cups Mozzarella Cheese: Freshly shredded melts more evenly than pre packaged
- 20 Slices Pepperoni: The classic pizza topping that crisps up beautifully
- 1 Tablespoon Italian Seasoning: Brings together all the flavors with aromatic herbs
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. This moderate temperature ensures the biscuits cook through completely while allowing the cheese to melt perfectly without burning. Allow at least 10 minutes for your oven to reach the proper temperature before baking.
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Take a 9x13 inch baking dish and coat it thoroughly with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. Cut each biscuit into four equal pieces and arrange them in the dish. The pieces should be spread out in a single layer covering the bottom of the dish. They will expand during baking.
- Add Sauce and Cheese:
- Pour the tomato sauce evenly over the biscuit pieces making sure to cover them completely. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the sauce followed by an even layer of shredded mozzarella. The cheese will form a beautiful golden crust during baking.
- Add Toppings:
- Distribute the pepperoni pieces evenly across the top of the cheese. You can either dice them for more even distribution or leave them whole for a more traditional pizza appearance. Finish by sprinkling the Italian seasoning across the entire dish to infuse the casserole with classic pizza flavor.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking dish on the center rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the biscuits have fully cooked and puffed up through the sauce and cheese. The top should be golden brown with bubbling cheese and slightly crispy pepperoni.
- Rest and Serve:
- Allow the bubble up pizza to cool for approximately 5 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice and serve. The dish is best enjoyed while still warm when the cheese is gooey and the biscuits are soft.
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The first time I made this bubble up pizza my youngest son declared it was magic how the biscuits transformed during baking. We now have a tradition of watching through the oven door as the biscuits bubble up through the sauce creating what my daughter calls little pizza volcanoes.
Customization Options
This recipe welcomes creative variations just like traditional pizza. Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or black olives for a supreme version. Meat lovers can include cooked Italian sausage, bacon bits, or Canadian bacon. For a vegetarian option, skip the pepperoni and load up on vegetables like spinach, artichoke hearts, and roasted red peppers. The versatility makes it perfect for pleasing different taste preferences in one dish.
Make Ahead Instructions
Bubble up pizza is ideal for meal prepping. You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours before baking and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator while the oven preheats and add about 5 minutes to the baking time. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked casserole wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this hearty pizza bake with a simple green salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette for a complete meal. For a more substantial dinner, serve alongside garlic bread sticks or a cup of tomato soup. My family enjoys it with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping the cheesy edges. This dish is perfect for casual gatherings, game nights, or any occasion that calls for comfort food.
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This bubble up pizza is guaranteed to be a hit with your family, combining simple ingredients with big flavors you'll crave.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of dough?
Yes, you can substitute biscuit dough with pizza dough or crescent roll dough for variation in texture.
- → What toppings work well with this dish?
Aside from pepperoni, try cooked sausage, chopped vegetables, or olives for a different flavor profile.
- → How do I know the biscuits are fully cooked?
Check the center of the bake by inserting a toothpick or fork. It should come out clean without raw dough.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble this dish a few hours ahead, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator until baking.
- → Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Omit the pepperoni and add your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.