Introduction

Welcome to our culinary adventure where we merge two classic comfort foods into one epic creation: the Pizza Burger Pie. This innovative dish combines the best elements of pizza and burgers into a savory, cheesy pie that’s perfect for family dinners, parties, or any gathering. If you’re a fan of hearty, flavorful meals, this Pizza Burger Pie is sure to become a new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pizza Burger Pie is the ultimate comfort food, blending the juicy goodness of burgers with the irresistible flavors of pizza. This recipe is great for anyone who loves experimenting with food and enjoys dishes that are both fun and satisfying. It’s easy to prepare, customizable to your taste, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Plus, it’s a one-dish meal that makes cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped onions
• 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 package (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: pepperoni slices, olives, jalapenos

Directions

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1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Add the chopped onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are softened. Stir in the pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
4. Prepare the Dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to fit your pie dish or baking dish. Press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of the dish.
5. Assemble the Pie: Spoon the beef and vegetable mixture into the dough-lined dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top. Add any optional toppings like pepperoni slices, olives, or jalapenos.
6. Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Cool and Serve: Let the pie cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Skillet
• Chopping board
• Sharp knife
• Pie dish or baking dish
• Rolling pin (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Tips and Shortcuts

• Pre-made Pizza Dough: Use store-bought refrigerated pizza dough to save time. It’s convenient and tastes great.
• Customize Your Pie: Feel free to add or omit any vegetables or toppings based on your preferences. This recipe is very adaptable.
• Cheese Mix: Experiment with different cheese blends like provolone, parmesan, or Monterey Jack for varied flavors.

Variations and Recipe Swaps

• Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with a plant-based ground meat substitute or use a combination of sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, and tomatoes.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the beef mixture for an extra spicy version.
• Low-Carb Version: Use a cauliflower pizza crust instead of traditional dough for a low-carb alternative.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Pizza Burger Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a slice in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes, but the crust may not be as crispy.

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Food and Drink Pairings

Pair this Pizza Burger Pie with a simple green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. For drinks, a cold soda, a light beer, or a glass of red wine like Chianti or Merlot would complement the rich flavors of the pie beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make this pie ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the pie up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, follow the baking instructions as usual.

Q: What type of ground beef should I use?
A: Lean ground beef (85% lean) works best for this recipe to avoid excess grease, but you can use any ground beef you prefer.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftover slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Q: How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?
A: Make sure to drain any excess fat from the cooked beef and slightly cool the filling before adding it to the dough. Pre-baking the crust for a few minutes before adding the filling can also help.

Conclusion

Pizza Burger Pie is a delightful and unique dish that brings together the best of both worlds. It’s a fun, flavorful, and filling meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t forget to share this recipe with others and subscribe to our blog for more creative and delicious recipes!