Upside Down Pizza Pot Pie Recipe

If you love the comforting vibes of a pot pie combined with the irresistible flavors of pizza, then you are going to adore this Upside Down Pizza Pot Pie Recipe! It turns the classic pot pie on its head by layering all your favorite pizza ingredients in a ramekin, baking it with a golden crust, and then flipping it out for a fun and delicious presentation. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that captures the gooey cheese, savory meats, and vibrant veggies in every bite, making weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers extra special with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a starring role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this Upside Down Pizza Pot Pie Recipe incredibly satisfying. From the melty mozzarella to the crisp green peppers, every component is essential to the perfect balance of taste and heartiness.

• 13.8 ounces tube refrigerated pizza dough: Provides a soft, golden crust that seals in all the cheesy goodness.
• 14 oz jar pizza sauce: Adds that rich, tangy tomato base that’s classic pizza all the way.
• 25 slices of pepperoni: Brings a savory, slightly spicy punch that pizza lovers crave.
• 1 lb Italian sausage (cooked and crumbled): Gives a robust, meaty flavor and satisfying texture.
• 1 cup crumbled bacon: Adds a smoky, crispy element to elevate every bite.
• 1 green pepper (diced): Contributes a fresh crunch and bright color contrast.
• 1 medium white onion (diced): Offers sweetness and depth once sautéed in the sauce.
• 2.25 oz can black olives (drained): Adds a salty tang and rich, earthy taste.
• 1 cup mushrooms (diced): Provides an earthy, tender bite complementing the meats and veggies.
• 16 oz block mozzarella cheese (freshly sliced and grated): Melts beautifully giving that irresistibly gooey texture.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Sprinkled on top to add aromatic, Italian flair.
• 3 tablespoons butter (melted): Brushed on dough for a golden, buttery crust.

How to Make Upside Down Pizza Pot Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dough

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees. Divide the pizza dough into portions large enough to cover your pot pie dishes. Lightly flour your work surface and roll each portion until just enough to cover. I found using a ramekin as a cutter makes getting a perfect circle super easy and neat.

Step 2: Grease Your Pot Pie Dishes

Make sure to grease your oven-safe ramekins or pot pie dishes well with butter or cooking spray. This step is crucial to prevent sticking and to help your crust brown evenly on the edges.

Step 3: Simmer the Toppings and Sauce

In a large skillet, combine the pizza sauce and all your toppings except the cheese. Let them simmer over medium heat for about 15 minutes until everything has cooked through and the flavors blend beautifully. This forms a juicy, flavorful filling that will turn your pot pies into pizzalicious bites.

Step 4: Add the Cheese Base

Spread both sliced and shredded mozzarella cheese on the bottom and sides of your ramekins. This cheesy layer not only tastes amazing but will help create a gooey barrier so the crust doesn’t get soggy once the filling is added.

Step 5: Layer the Pizza Filling

Next, spoon the simmered pizza filling over the cheese layer. Each ramekin will soon become a treasure trove of flavor with the perfect mix of meats, veggies, and sauce.

Step 6: Seal with Dough

Top each pot pie with the rolled-out dough circle. Press the edges gently around the sides to seal everything inside. This crust lid will crisp beautifully while baking and help lock in all the delicious steam.

Step 7: Add Seasoning and Butter

Sprinkle dried oregano on top for that classic Italian seasoning touch and brush the dough with melted butter. This step is what gives the crust its gorgeous golden shine and irresistible buttery aroma once baked.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling

Place your pot pies on a baking sheet and bake for 12 to 20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and you see bubbles of melted cheese peek through. This is when your kitchen will start smelling like the best pizza joint ever.

Step 9: Cool Slightly Before Serving

After baking, let the pot pies cool for a few minutes. This helps the filling set a bit so it’s easier to flip and serve without spilling out all over.

Step 10: Flip and Serve!

Place a serving plate over the ramekin, flip it over quickly but carefully, lift the ramekin, and reveal your stunning upside-down pizza pot pie. This method not only looks amazing but lets you dig into layers of melted cheese, tasty toppings, and flaky crust in every bite.

How to Serve Upside Down Pizza Pot Pie Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of extra olive oil can take your presentation to the next level. These not only enhance the visual appeal but also add fresh, bright flavors that balance the savory pie.

Side Dishes

Pair these pot pies with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A side of garlic bread or a light Caesar salad complements the richness of the pot pie perfectly without overwhelming your palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Upside Down Pizza Pot Pie Recipe as individual portions at dinner parties for a wow-factor. For a family meal, line up ramekins for a fun buffet-style serving where everyone can personalize their own toppings if desired. They’re also great for meal prep and rewarming later with minimal fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover upside down pizza pot pies store beautifully in the refrigerator. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store in airtight containers and consume within 3 to 4 days for best flavor and texture.

Freezing

For longer storage, these pot pies freeze well before baking. Prepare them completely up to the dough sealing step, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen adding a few extra minutes to cooking time.

Reheating

Reheat your pot pies in a preheated 350 degree oven for about 10-15 minutes to restore that crispy crust and melty cheese. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy and the filling less appetizing.

FAQs

Can I customize the toppings in this Upside Down Pizza Pot Pie Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out meats or veggies based on preferences or what you have on hand. This recipe is incredibly flexible and can be personalized to suit any pizza lover’s tastes.

What type of cheese works best for this dish?

Mozzarella is traditional and melts beautifully, but you can mix in provolone, cheddar, or parmesan to add extra depth and creaminess to your pot pie.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the meats and load up on your favorite vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and olives. The pizza sauce and cheese keep it flavorful and satisfying.

How do I know when the pot pies are done baking?

Look for a golden brown crust and bubbling filling around the edges. The cheese should be melted and the dough cooked through, which usually takes about 12 to 20 minutes.

Is this dish suitable for kids?

Definitely! Kids love the mini pie format and familiar pizza flavors. You can easily adjust toppings to their preferences, making it a fun and family-friendly meal.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about the Upside Down Pizza Pot Pie Recipe that combines all the best parts of pizza and pot pies in one delightful package. Whether you are looking to impress guests or make a cozy dinner for your family, this recipe is a winner that promises fun, flavor, and a memorable meal. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how addictive these little pies can be!

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