Meatzza Portions and Freezing

Asked by AnaGorgulho. Answered on 9th November 2013

Full question

I would like to make the Meatzza as a main dish for 4 people but I'm not sure if the amount of beef used in Nigella's recipe is for 4-6 people as a main dish. Should I serve it solo or with some salad/other side?

Can I make the Meatzza, do everything but cook, and freeze at that point? Ready to pop in the oven later? Thanks, Brettmariea.

Our answer

The portion guide for Nigella's Meatzza (from Nigellissima and on the Nigella website) is 4 to 6 people as it very much depends on the age and appetite of the people eating it. The meatzza should be enough for 4 moderately hungry adults but we would suggest serving a salad alongside the Meatzza and perhaps some crusty bread or garlic bread as well.

It is possible to make the base of the Meatzza in advance and cover it in the tomato sauce. We would then prefer to freeze it at this point (without the mozzarella) and suggest wrapping the dish tightly in a double layer of clingfilm and a layer of foil. Freeze the Meatzza for up to 3 months. Thaw the Meatzza in the fridge overnight before cooking and add the mozzarella just before cooking. When the meatzza comes out of the oven just check that it is completely cooked and piping hot in the centre. If not then put it back in the oven for another 5 minutes and check again.