Ground Beef and Cauliflower Rice Pizza Casserole
This hearty casserole combines seasoned ground beef with cauliflower rice, bell peppers, and onions in a rich marinara sauce, topped with melted dairy-free cheese. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners or meal prep, it delivers classic pizza flavors in a satisfying, one-dish format. The cauliflower rice creates a tender base while the vegetables add fresh crunch and color. Ready in under an hour with minimal prep work required.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 375°F
- 2
Cook ground beef in large skillet over medium heat until browned and drain excess fat
- 3
Add marinara sauce, bell peppers, onions, cauliflower rice, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper to skillet and stir to combine
- 4
Transfer mixture to baking dish and spread evenly
- 5
Sprinkle dairy-free cheese on top
- 6
Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly
- 7
Remove from oven and let cool for few minutes before serving
Tips
Drain ground beef thoroughly to prevent casserole from becoming watery
Use frozen cauliflower rice for convenience, just thaw and drain first
Let casserole rest 5 minutes after baking for easier serving and better flavor distribution
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days in covered container
Assemble casserole up to 1 day ahead, cover and refrigerate, add 5-10 minutes to baking time
Serve hot directly from baking dish with fresh herbs or side salad
Common Mistakes
Drain ground beef well to avoid soggy casserole
Do not skip cooling time or casserole will be too hot to serve properly
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use regular cheese instead of dairy-free?
Yes, substitute with 1 cup shredded mozzarella or pizza blend cheese for traditional flavor.
How long does this casserole keep in the fridge?
Store covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in microwave or whole dish in 350°F oven.
Can I freeze this pizza casserole?
Yes, freeze assembled unbaked casserole up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and bake as directed, adding 10-15 minutes.