Name: Ultimate Stuffed Layered Pizza Pie
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 9 lasagna noodles or no-boil pasta sheets; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups pizza sauce or marinara sauce; 1/2 cup pepperoni slices; 1/4 cup sliced black olives; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Pizza night just got a bold new upgrade. When I first pulled this Ultimate Stuffed Layered Pizza Pie out of the oven, I knew it was going to be a family favorite. It’s everything you love about pizza—gooey cheese, rich sauce, and perfectly seasoned meat—but stacked tall like a lasagna. Each bite is a full-on flavor explosion. Think of it as the comfort food love child between deep dish pizza and a cheesy meat casserole.

I created this recipe out of pure craving: I wanted something with the fun of pizza, but hearty enough to stand as a full meal on its own. The layered structure means every slice is thick, satisfying, and packed with all your favorite toppings. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, making a weekend treat, or just indulging in a creative kitchen night, this pizza pie hits the mark.

Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Stuffed Layered Pizza Pie

It’s big, bold, and totally customizable. The structure alone makes it a showstopper, but what really gets people talking is the taste. You’ve got layers of melty mozzarella, perfectly seasoned ground beef, marinara sauce, and classic pizza toppings like pepperoni and black olives. It’s oven-baked until the cheese bubbles and the top turns golden brown and slightly crisp.

Plus, you don’t need to make dough from scratch—this recipe uses lasagna noodles or no-bake pasta sheets as the secret layering hack. It’s a pizza reinvented with a comfort food twist, and it works.

What Kind of Pasta or Base Should I Use?

I recommend using no-boil lasagna noodles or fresh pasta sheets for the best texture and simplicity. They cook through perfectly while baking and give the pie its structure without needing a pizza crust. If you prefer a dough base, a pre-baked thick crust can work too, but you may lose that lasagna-pie vibe that makes this recipe unique.

You want something that can hold moisture without turning mushy, and lasagna noodles do just that. They also layer beautifully with meat and cheese, giving you that true stacked effect.

Options for Substitutions

Ground Beef: Swap it with ground turkey, chicken, Italian sausage, or plant-based meat for different flavors.
Mozzarella Cheese: Any melting cheese like provolone, cheddar, or even a spicy pepper jack can be used.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought works fine, but homemade sauce can take this to another level.
Pepperoni & Olives: Use any of your favorite toppings—mushrooms, green peppers, jalapeños, or even pineapple if you’re into that!
Pasta Sheets: If you’re gluten-free, use GF lasagna noodles or try thin layers of eggplant as a veggie alternative.

Ingredients for This Ultimate Stuffed Layered Pizza Pie

Ground Beef – The heart of the filling, seasoned and browned for savory richness.
Lasagna Noodles or No-Boil Pasta Sheets – These create the layered structure and hold everything together like a casserole.
Mozzarella Cheese – Melted between layers and on top, it gives you that stringy, irresistible cheese pull.
Ricotta Cheese – Adds creamy depth between layers, balancing the acidity of the tomato sauce.
Parmesan Cheese – Brings a nutty, salty bite that enhances the overall flavor.
Pizza Sauce or Marinara – Rich and herby, this ties the layers together and gives the pie its classic pizza essence.
Pepperoni Slices – Adds that bold, spicy, classic pizza punch.
Black Olives – Sliced for briny contrast and extra texture.
Italian Seasoning – A mix of oregano, basil, and thyme to enhance the Italian flavor profile.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – For boosting the umami in the beef and sauce.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – For a touch of heat, if you like it spicy.
Olive Oil – Used for greasing the pan and sautéing the meat.
Salt & Pepper – Basic seasoning to taste.

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Layer

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle with olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat and set aside.

Step 2: Boil or Prep the Pasta Sheets

If using traditional lasagna noodles, boil them according to package directions until al dente. Drain and lay flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking. For no-boil sheets, just have them ready to layer.

Step 3: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a springform pan or deep cake pan with olive oil. This helps the pie release cleanly after baking.

Step 4: Begin Layering the Pizza Pie

Start with a spoonful of sauce on the bottom of the pan. Add a layer of pasta sheets to cover the base. Follow with a spread of ricotta, then a layer of the seasoned beef, some mozzarella, and a drizzle of sauce. Repeat this layering process until the pan is nearly full—usually 3–4 layers.

Step 5: Final Topping Layer

Finish the top with a final sheet of pasta, more sauce, a generous handful of mozzarella, slices of pepperoni, and olives. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and a pinch of Italian seasoning.

Step 6: Bake the Pizza Pie

Place the pan on a baking sheet to catch drips and bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This helps everything set and makes slicing clean and easy.

How Long to Prepare the Ultimate Stuffed Layered Pizza Pie

Creating this towering pizza pie is a bit more involved than tossing a regular pizza together, but the payoff is absolutely worth it.

Prep Time: Allow 25–30 minutes for cooking the meat, boiling noodles (if needed), and assembling the layers. Prepping in advance can save you even more time.

Bake Time: Once assembled, the pizza pie bakes for about 35–40 minutes. Allow a 10–15 minute rest after baking so it holds its shape when slicing.

Tips for Perfect Ultimate Stuffed Layered Pizza Pie

Use a springform pan for easy removal and that clean layered look.
Let the pie sit after baking so the layers set—this makes slicing clean and mess-free.
Add a bit of sauce to each layer to keep things moist and flavorful.
Combine cheeses for depth—mozzarella for melt, ricotta for creaminess, and Parmesan for sharpness.
If using no-boil noodles, be sure there’s enough sauce to help them soften in the oven.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overstuffing the Layers: Too much filling can make the pie collapse or bake unevenly.
Not Draining the Beef: Excess grease will make the dish soggy and greasy.
Undercooking Pasta Sheets: If not using no-boil, make sure noodles are al dente, or they’ll stay too firm after baking.
Skipping the Resting Time: This is essential for the pie to hold together.
Using Too Much Sauce on Top: It can lead to a watery or sloppy top layer.

What to Serve With Ultimate Stuffed Layered Pizza Pie?

1. Garlic Bread

To soak up any leftover sauce and add a crisp, buttery side.

2. Caesar Salad

The crunchy lettuce and creamy dressing balance the richness of the pie.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers add a fresh and healthy touch.

4. Mozzarella Sticks

A cheesy appetizer that fits right in with the pizza theme.

5. Sparkling Lemonade or Italian Soda

A refreshing drink to lighten the richness of the dish.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Let the pizza pie cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or wrapping tightly in foil. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.

Freezer: You can freeze individual slices or the whole pie after baking. Wrap in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, covered with foil.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Calories: 540
Protein: 34g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 31g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Sugar: 6g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 880mg

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the layers from sliding apart?

Letting the pie rest after baking is key. It helps the cheese and sauce firm up and keeps the layers stable.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the pie a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. Use plant-based meat or layer with roasted vegetables like eggplant, mushrooms, and spinach.

What if I don’t have a springform pan?

A deep cake pan works fine—just be sure to grease it well and use a knife to loosen the edges before removing.

Can I use shredded chicken instead of beef?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works beautifully and adds a different texture and flavor.

Conclusion

The Ultimate Stuffed Layered Pizza Pie is more than a meal—it’s an event. It brings comfort food to a whole new level with rich, cheesy layers, bold flavors, and eye-catching presentation. Whether you’re serving this for a weekend dinner, a game-day feast, or just because you crave something hearty and delicious, this pizza pie never disappoints. Make it once, and it’ll earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.