Bubble Up Pizza Bake: A Cheesy, Comforting Family Favorite
There’s something magical about the scent of bubbling cheese, savory Italian sausage, and golden-brown biscuits wafting through the kitchen. This Bubble Up Pizza Bake is the ultimate comfort food—easy to make, impossibly cheesy, and packed with all the flavors of your favorite pizza.
I first discovered this dish when my niece, a notorious picky eater, devoured two helpings without a single complaint. Her eyes lit up at the sight of the gooey mozzarella stretching with every scoop. Since then, this bake has become a weeknight hero in our house—quick, satisfying, and endlessly customizable.
Why You’ll Love This Bubble Up Pizza Bake
Effortless comfort food – No dough to roll out, just fluffy biscuits that bake into a pillowy base.
Perfect for picky eaters – Kids (and adults!) love the familiar flavors of pepperoni, sausage, and melty cheese.
Great for feeding a crowd – One dish serves a hungry family or impresses last-minute guests.
Customizable – Swap toppings to match your cravings or what’s in the fridge.
Leftovers reheat like a dream – If there are any leftovers, that is!
The Unexpected Fan
My skeptical brother-in-law, who usually turns his nose up at “casserole-style” dishes, took one bite and immediately asked for the recipe. He couldn’t believe how much it tasted like a deep-dish pizza but with half the effort. Now, it’s his go-to potluck contribution!
What Makes It Special
Flaky, buttery biscuits – They puff up into tender layers, soaking up the pizza sauce.
Rich Italian sausage – Adds depth and a hint of spice.
Double cheese – Mozzarella for gooey stretch, Parmesan for a salty finish.
Classic pizza toppings – Pepperoni, olives, and green peppers for that authentic flavor.
Making It Happen
Start by browning the Italian sausage in a skillet until it’s crumbly and fragrant. While that sizzles, grab your trusty 9×13 baking dish and spray it lightly—this ensures every bite releases easily.
Next, slice the refrigerated biscuits into quarters (they’ll look like little doughy clouds) and scatter them in the dish. A quick 10-minute bake gives them a head start, turning them golden and slightly puffed.
Now, the fun part: slather on the pizza sauce, then layer on the cheese, sausage, pepperoni, olives, and peppers like you’re building the ultimate pizza masterpiece. Another 15–20 minutes in the oven transforms it into a bubbling, cheesy wonder. A final sprinkle of Parmesan adds the perfect finishing touch.
You Must Know
Biscuit size matters – If using Grands biscuits, you’ll only need 12 (they’re bigger).
Pre-bake the biscuits – This keeps them from turning doughy underneath.
Drain the sausage well – Too much grease can make the dish soggy.
Try muffin tins – For individual servings, perfect for lunchboxes!
Let it rest – A 5-minute cool-down helps the cheese set for cleaner slices.
Serving Ideas
Pair this Bubble Up Pizza Bake with a crisp Caesar salad or garlic knots for a full Italian feast. A chilled sparkling lemonade or light lager beer balances the richness beautifully.
Make It Different
Vegetarian – Skip the meat and load up on mushrooms, spinach, and artichokes.
Spicy kick – Use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.
Low-carb – Swap biscuits for cauliflower tots (adjust baking time).
Hawaiian twist – Add diced ham and pineapple for sweet & savory vibes.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Fridge – Store covered for up to 3 days.
Freezer – Wrap tightly and freeze for 1 month (thaw before reheating).
Reheat – Microwave single portions or warm the whole dish at 350°F until heated through.
Success Tips
Don’t overbake – The cheese should be bubbly, not browned to a crisp.
Freshly grate the cheese – Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
Customize the sauce – Stir in garlic powder or oregano for extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of biscuits?
A: Absolutely! Just pre-bake the dough slightly before adding toppings.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes! Assemble (without baking), refrigerate, and bake when ready (add 5–10 extra minutes).
Q: Can I use turkey pepperoni?
A: Of course! Any pepperoni works—try mini sizes for better distribution.
Q: Why are my biscuits doughy underneath?
A: They needed more pre-baking time—ensure they’re lightly golden before saucing.
Q: Can I use frozen biscuits?
A: Yes, but thaw them first so they bake evenly.
Bubble Up Pizza Bake Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dinner
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American-Italian
Yield: 6–8 servings
Ingredients
For the Base:
2 (7.5 oz) cans refrigerated biscuits (see notes for Grands)
1 (15 oz) jar pizza sauce
For the Toppings:
2 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
½ lb Italian sausage, cooked & drained
1 (5 oz) package pepperoni (~25 slices)
1 cup sliced black olives
½ cup diced green peppers
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.
Cook sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it apart, until browned (10 mins). Drain on paper towels.
Cut biscuits into quarters and spread in the dish. Bake for 10–12 mins until lightly golden.
Layer toppings: Spread pizza sauce over biscuits, then add 2 cups mozzarella, sausage, pepperoni, olives, and peppers. Top with remaining ½ cup mozzarella.
Bake again for 15–20 mins until bubbly. Sprinkle with Parmesan and serve!
Notes
Grands biscuits? Use 12 biscuits (they’re larger).
Individual servings? Bake in a muffin tin for mini pizza bakes!
Enjoy this warm, cheesy, irresistible Bubble Up Pizza Bake—your new favorite way to enjoy pizza night! 🍕
