Cheesy Pizza Burger Pie

why make this recipe

Cheesy Pizza Burger Pie is one of the best comfort foods you can make. It takes all the good flavors of a pizza and combines it with the heartiness of a burger in a fun, pie-like format. This recipe is not only delicious, but it’s also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or a weekend gathering with friends and family. The blend of mozzarella cheese, savory ground beef, and your favorite pizza toppings creates a satisfying dish that appeals to everyone, from kids to adults.

The best part? It allows for creativity! You can customize it with your own favorite toppings or adjust the ingredients based on what you have at home. Whether you are craving a meaty slice, a cheesy delight, or even a vegetarian option, this pie can be tailored just for you.

how to make Cheesy Pizza Burger Pie

Making Cheesy Pizza Burger Pie involves some simple steps that anyone can follow. Don’t worry if you’re not an experienced cook; this recipe is straightforward and rewarding! Let’s break it down step-by-step, so you can enjoy this cheesy, meaty delight in no time.

Ingredients

To get started, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 package pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/4 cup sliced bell peppers
• 1/4 cup sliced pickles
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)

Directions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your Cheesy Pizza Burger Pie:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the pie to a golden brown and ensuring the inside is cooked perfectly. While the oven is heating, let your pizza dough come to room temperature. This step is essential, as it makes the dough easier to roll out.

2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add your ground beef. Season it with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally, and make sure to drain excess grease to prevent the pie from being oily.

3. Prepare the Dough: Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface until it’s large enough to fit into a pie dish. If you’ve made homemade dough, it will be helpful to ensure it’s pliable and not too thick.

4. Assemble the Pie: Place the rolled-out dough into the pie dish, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides. Spread an even layer of pizza sauce over the dough. Then, layer on the cooked beef, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, and pickles. Finish with the remaining mozzarella cheese on top, creating a nice melty layer.

5. Seal the Pie: Carefully fold the edges of the pizza dough over the filling, sealing the pie. This will create a crust that envelopes the delicious toppings. Make sure to pinch the edges to secure everything inside well. Lastly, brush the top with olive oil for a nice golden finish.

6. Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake it for about 25 to 30 minutes. You will know it’s done when the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent over-browning.

7. Cool and Serve: Once baked, take the pie out of the oven and let it cool slightly for about 5 to 10 minutes. This cooling period helps the filling set a bit, making slicing easier. Cut into wedges and serve hot. Enjoy the melty, cheesy goodness!

how to serve Cheesy Pizza Burger Pie

Serving Cheesy Pizza Burger Pie is as easy as slicing it into wedges and placing it on plates. You can serve it alongside a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. The pie can be enjoyed warm right out of the oven or even at room temperature, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

For added flavor, consider providing some dipping sauces on the side, such as ranch dressing or extra pizza sauce. This makes for an interactive eating experience, especially if you have guests. And don’t forget, leftovers can also be reheated easily, so make sure to enjoy any extras the next day!

how to store Cheesy Pizza Burger Pie

Storing Cheesy Pizza Burger Pie is straightforward. If you have leftovers, let the pie cool completely before packing it away. Here are some simple guidelines for storage:

• In the Refrigerator: Place the cooled pie in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It should last for up to 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.

• In the Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It can be kept in the freezer for 1 to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

tips to make Cheesy Pizza Burger Pie

1. Customize Ingredients: Feel free to swap out or add toppings based on your preference. You can include cooked sausage, bacon, spinach, or even olives. This recipe can accommodate many different flavors.

2. Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano into the filling can enhance the flavor of your pie. Just sprinkle them in with the other ingredients for a fresh burst of taste.

3. Double the Fillings: If you want an extra hearty pie, consider increasing the amount of beef and cheese. Just be mindful of the crust, as too much filling might require a longer baking time.

4. Make a Healthier Version: Substitute lean ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter option. You can also load it with more vegetables like zucchini and spinach for added nutrition.

5. Dough Options: If you want a quicker option, ready-made pizza crusts from the store are great alternatives. Just follow the package instructions for a no-stress baking method.

variation

While the Cheesy Pizza Burger Pie is perfect as is, you might want to try some variations. Here are a few ideas:

• Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with sautéed veggies such as zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers. Add different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for an extra kick.

• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the ground beef for some heat. This adds a delightful twist for those who appreciate a bit of spice.

• BBQ Chicken: Swap out the pizza sauce for BBQ sauce and use shredded rotisserie chicken with your choice of veggies and cheese. It gives a unique flavor profile that’s very enjoyable.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade pizza dough?
Yes! Homemade pizza dough works great for this recipe. Just make sure it’s enough to cover your pie dish, and let it rest before rolling it out.

2. How do I know when the pie is done?
The pie is done when the crust is golden brown, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to prevent burning.

3. Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pie, cover it, and refrigerate it before baking. When you’re ready, just bake it straight from the fridge, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

4. What sauces work well for dipping?
Popular dipping sauces include pizza sauce, ranch dressing, garlic butter, or even a spicy marinara. Choose according to your taste preferences!

5. How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Leftover Cheesy Pizza Burger Pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Make sure it is stored properly in an airtight container.

With these steps, tips, and ideas, you’re ready to dive into the yummy world of Cheesy Pizza Burger Pie. Enjoy making this dish, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your fillings. Happy cooking!