Easy Pizza Burger Pie Recipe

Pizza Burger Pie is a delicious fusion of two crowd favorites: pizza and burgers. If you’ve ever been torn between ordering a juicy burger or a cheesy pizza, this recipe is your perfect solution. Featuring savory ground beef, gooey cheese, and a crisp crust, Pizza Burger Pie is guaranteed to satisfy cravings for both comfort foods.

Below, you’ll find all the ingredients you need, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips to ensure your Pizza Burger Pie turns out just right.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
  (You can use lean ground beef or any ground meat of your choice.)

• 2 cups shredded cheese
  (Mozzarella or cheddar work wonderfully, but feel free to experiment with your favorite blend.)

• 1 pre-made pizza dough or homemade dough
  (The quality of the crust can really elevate this dish, so use whichever dough you prefer.)

• 1 cup tomato sauce
  (If you like a more robust flavor, choose a sauce with Italian herbs or add extra spices.)

• Your choice of pizza toppings

  • Examples: pepperoni slices, chopped onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, etc.

• Spices:

  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Italian seasoning

Equipment You’ll Need

1. Oven (preheated to 375°F)
2. Skillet or frying pan (to brown the ground beef)
3. Pie dish or baking dish
4. Rolling pin (if your pizza dough isn’t already shaped)
5. Spatula or wooden spoon (for cooking the beef and stirring sauces)
6. Measuring cups (for the tomato sauce, shredded cheese, etc.)
7. Knife and cutting board (for chopping additional toppings)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

   • Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Allow it to reach the proper temperature while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
   • Tip: Preheating the oven ensures even cooking and a properly browned crust.

2. Roll Out the Dough

   • Lightly flour a clean work surface.
   • Roll your pizza dough into a circle (or rectangle, depending on your pan’s shape) large enough to fit in your pie dish or baking dish.
   • Gently press the dough into the dish, making sure it covers the bottom and slightly up the sides.

3. Cook the Ground Beef

   • In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbly.
   • Drain any excess fat.
   • Season the beef with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to taste.

4. Add the Sauce

   • Spread the cup of tomato sauce evenly over the dough, creating a thin layer.
   • For extra flavor, you can mix additional garlic powder or Italian seasoning into the sauce before spreading.

5. Layer the Fillings

   • Ground Beef: Spread the cooked ground beef on top of the tomato sauce.
   • Additional Toppings: If you’re adding pepperoni, onions, bell peppers, or any other desired toppings, sprinkle or arrange them evenly over the beef.
   • Cheese: Finally, top everything with a generous layer of shredded cheese. (Feel free to use more cheese if you like a really gooey pie!)

6. Bake

   • Place the dish on the center rack of your preheated oven.
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
   • Tip: Check the crust’s underside to ensure it’s cooked through. If necessary, add a few more minutes.

7. Rest and Serve

   • Once baked, remove the Pizza Burger Pie from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. This makes slicing easier and helps the layers set.
   • Slice and serve hot. Enjoy the combination of burger-like flavor and pizza-style presentation!

Recipe Notes and Tips

• Crust Options: A homemade pizza dough often adds an extra layer of freshness to the dish. However, store-bought dough is convenient and still yields tasty results.
• Cheese Mix: While mozzarella is classic for a pizza, cheddar brings a sharper flavor. You can even combine the two or experiment with other cheeses like provolone or Monterey Jack.
• Spice It Up: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or diced jalapeños on top.
• Vegetarian Variation: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based “meat” crumbles or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian twist.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair your Pizza Burger Pie with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or veggie sticks to round out the meal.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerating Leftovers: Wrap slices in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing Option: You can freeze leftover slices (wrapped securely in foil or freezer-safe bags) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly again. A toaster oven also works well. If you prefer a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, though note that the crust may become softer.

Conclusion

Pizza Burger Pie delivers the best of both worlds with its juicy, seasoned ground beef and classic pizza flavors—all nestled in a crispy crust. It’s an excellent way to please a crowd at game nights, family gatherings, or simply a fun dinner at home. Customize it with your favorite toppings, cheeses, and seasonings for a unique creation every time.

Happy cooking and enjoy your savory, cheesy slice of Pizza Burger Pie!