As I stood by the oven, the mouthwatering aroma of sizzling onions and garlic danced through the air, instantly transporting me back to simpler times. Today, I’m excited to share my take on a fun family favorite: Pizza Burger Pie. This dish captures the comforting essence of a classic pizza with a delightful twist, and what's not to love? Not only is it incredibly easy to prepare, taking just about an hour from start to finish, but it also makes for a spectacular centerpiece that friends and family will rave about. Imagine cutting into a warm, cheesy pie that’s packed with those beloved flavors of burgers and pizza; it's the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to impress. Are you ready to take a bite out of this delicious fusion? Let’s get cooking!
Why Is Pizza Burger Pie a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its finest: This recipe combines the flavors of a classic pizza and a juicy burger without complicated steps.
Family-friendly fun: It’s a hit among kids and adults alike, making it the perfect dish for any gathering.
Loaded with flavor: The mix of beef, cheese, and pepperoni brings an irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Versatile filling options: Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences, adding veggies or your favorite toppings!
Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead of time and simply reheat for a quick weeknight dinner. This Easy Pizza Dough is delightful to pair with it.
Ready to elevate your pizza night? This Pizza Burger Pie is bound to be the newest favorite!
Pizza Burger Pie Ingredients
• A delightful mix of flavors awaits!
For the Filling
- Ground beef – a classic base that gives your Pizza Burger Pie a hearty, satisfying texture.
- Olive oil – used to sauté the veggies and adds a lovely depth of flavor.
- Onion – diced onion enhances the savory depth and lends sweetness when sautéed.
- Garlic – minced garlic adds aromatic warmth that brings the dish to life.
- Italian seasoning – this blend of herbs is essential for that true pizza essence.
- Salt – heightens the flavors, making each bite deliciously savory.
- Black pepper – adds a gentle kick without overwhelming the other flavors.
- Pizza sauce – the key ingredient that transforms the dish into your favorite pizza experience.
For the Pie
- Pizza dough – acts as the comforting crust that envelopes all the delicious fillings.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese – for that gooey, melted goodness that we all love on pizza.
- Grated Parmesan cheese – adds a sharp tang that complements the mozzarella beautifully.
- Pepperoni – a crowd favorite that brings that iconic pizza flavor into the mix.
- Egg – brushed on the crust to create a beautifully golden finish.
With these ingredients in hand, you're just steps away from crafting a delightful and comforting Pizza Burger Pie that your family will adore!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pizza Burger Pie
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and greasing a 9-inch pie dish with a thin layer of olive oil. This step not only prepares your oven for baking but also ensures that your Pizza Burger Pie will come out easily once it’s cooked to perfection.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing them for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. This will create a flavorful base for our ground beef, enhancing the overall taste of your Pizza Burger Pie.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
Next, add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet along with the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook the mixture for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until the meat is browned and fully cooked. This ensures that the beef is flavorful and perfectly browned for your pie filling.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
Once the beef is cooked, stir in 1 cup of pizza sauce and simmer for about 2 minutes over low heat. This step brings the flavors together beautifully, allowing the sauce to infuse into the beef mixture, making it rich and delicious for your Pizza Burger Pie filling.
Step 5: Prepare the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Gently press the rolled dough into the bottom and up the sides of your greased pie dish, creating a sturdy crust that will hold all the fantastic flavors of your Pizza Burger Pie.
Step 6: Fill the Pie
Spoon the beef and sauce mixture evenly into the dough-lined dish, spreading it out so every slice will be flavorful. This will serve as the hearty filling, ensuring that each bite of your Pizza Burger Pie is packed with a delightful blend of savory goodness.
Step 7: Add the Cheese and Toppings
Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese over the meat mixture, followed by layering 20 slices of pepperoni. Finish by adding ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese on top, creating a melty, cheesy topping that enhances the flavors of your Pizza Burger Pie.
Step 8: Form the Crust
Fold the overhanging edges of the dough toward the center of the filling to create a rustic crust. Leave a small opening in the middle for steam to escape. This gives your Pizza Burger Pie an inviting and homey appearance, perfect for serving to family and friends.
Step 9: Brush the Crust
Using a pastry brush, apply the beaten egg over the exposed crust to achieve a lovely golden finish as it bakes. This simple step makes all the difference, ensuring your Pizza Burger Pie has an enticing and appetizing appearance when it emerges from the oven.
Step 10: Bake the Pie
Place your Pizza Burger Pie in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning, ensuring a beautifully cooked dish.
Step 11: Let it Rest
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This cooling period allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to slice without losing its structure, giving you perfectly shaped wedges of Pizza Burger Pie.
Step 12: Serve and Enjoy
Slice your Pizza Burger Pie into wedges and serve warm, delighting your family and friends with every cheesy and savory bite. This dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a heartwarming meal that brings everyone together.
How to Store and Freeze Pizza Burger Pie
Fridge: Store leftover Pizza Burger Pie in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Freezer: Wrap the pie (or individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen Pizza Burger Pie, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, ensuring even warmth throughout.
Reheating: Reheat thawed pie in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through, allowing the cheese to become bubbly again.
Expert Tips for Pizza Burger Pie
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Quality Beef Matters: Choose lean ground beef for a well-balanced flavor; fatty beef can make the filling greasy.
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Don’t Overcook: Avoid browning the onions and garlic too much, as burnt flavors will overpower your Pizza Burger Pie.
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Proper Dough Thickness: Roll out the pizza dough to about ¼-inch consistently to ensure an even crust that cooks thoroughly.
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Let it Rest: Always allow your Pizza Burger Pie to rest for 10 minutes after baking to help it set and make slicing easier.
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Experiment with Toppings: Have fun customizing your filling! Add bell peppers or mushrooms to the mix for extra flavors, but avoid overloading to keep it balanced.
Make Ahead Options
These Pizza Burger Pies are ideal for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling (ground beef, onions, garlic, seasoning, and pizza sauce) up to 3 days in advance; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the dough can be rolled out and placed in the pie dish up to 24 hours ahead. When you're ready to enjoy, simply fill with the prepared meat mixture, layer with cheese and toppings, brush the crust with egg, and bake as directed. This approach not only saves time but ensures your Pizza Burger Pie is just as delicious as when made fresh!
What to Serve with Pizza Burger Pie
As you savor each cheesy slice, let’s complete your meal with tempting sides that perfectly enhance this delicious comfort dish.
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Garlic Bread: A warm, toasty slice of garlic bread adds a delightful crunch and richness that pairs beautifully with the savory pie.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and a tangy dressing will lighten each mouthful while balancing the richness of the Pizza Burger Pie.
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Roasted Vegetables: A vibrant medley of roasted seasonal veggies adds color and a subtle sweetness, complementing the hearty flavors of the pie.
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Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized delights are filled with creamy cheese and herbs, offering a burst of flavor that's a wonderful appetizer before the main course.
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Potato Wedges: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they are perfect for dipping in leftover pizza sauce, enhancing the fun.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing drink can help cleanse your palate, making each bite of the Pizza Burger Pie even more enjoyable.
With these delicious accompaniments, your dinner is bound to be an irresistible feast that brings friends and family together for a cozy evening!
Pizza Burger Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Pizza Burger Pie and make it your own with these delightful twists!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute with vegan cheese and skip the Parmesan for a completely dairy-free version that still hits the flavor mark.
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Veggie Delight: Add diced bell peppers or zucchini to the beef mixture for an extra veggie boost—perfect for a colorful addition!
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Spicy Kick: Mix in some sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the meat for a zesty heat, catering to those who adore a spicy punch.
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Whole Wheat Crust: Go for a whole wheat pizza dough to add a nutty flavor and make the pie a bit heartier—better for those looking for wholesome options!
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Pesto Infusion: Spread a layer of pesto sauce over the dough before adding the beef mixture for a fresh, herbaceous twist that will surprise everyone.
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Italian Sausage Swap: Swap half the ground beef with Italian sausage for an even richer, more flavorful filling that echoes classic pizza tastes.
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Sweet & Savory: Add a layer of caramelized onions and a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top for a perfect sweet-and-savory balance that tantalizes the palate.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free pizza crust for a delicious alternative that still holds all the flavors, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful meal.
These variations not only enhance the taste but also allow your Pizza Burger Pie to fit any preference. Enjoy experimenting and creating your unique version while your family gathers around the table! If you're looking for some great sides, pair your creation with a light Caesar Salad or some fresh Garlic Bread to make the meal even more special.
Pizza Burger Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef is best for Pizza Burger Pie?
Absolutely! I recommend using lean ground beef (about 80/20) for your Pizza Burger Pie. This provides a great balance of flavor without excess grease, ensuring your pie remains hearty and delicious without becoming too oily. If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey also works wonderfully!
How should I store leftover Pizza Burger Pie?
Store your leftover Pizza Burger Pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop individual slices in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F for approximately 10 minutes, allowing it to regain its crispy crust and gooey cheese.
Can I freeze Pizza Burger Pie? How?
Yes, you can freeze Pizza Burger Pie! Wrap the entire pie or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before rewarming.
What should I do if my crust is too thick or uneven?
Very! If you find your dough is uneven or too thick, don’t worry! You can gently press down with your fingers or a rolling pin to flatten it out more evenly into the pie dish. For the perfect thickness, aim for about ¼-inch all around, which will cook evenly and provide a nice texture that complements the filling.
Is Pizza Burger Pie safe for pets and those with allergies?
Definitely! Keep in mind that the spices and certain ingredients (like garlic and onion) are not pet-friendly. Always consult your vet before sharing food with pets. If you or someone has allergies, be sure to check for allergens in the pizza dough and other ingredients, such as dairy or gluten. It’s always best to customize the recipe based on your dietary restrictions!
Savor the Comfort of Delicious Pizza Burger Pie Tonight
Equipment
- 9-inch pie dish
- Skillet
- Pastry brush
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 pound Ground beef
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil for sautéing
- 1 cup Onion diced
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 cup Pizza sauce
For the Pie
- 1 package Pizza dough for the crust
- 2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 20 slices Pepperoni
- 1 large Egg beaten, for brushing
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions for Pizza Burger Pie
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9-inch pie dish with olive oil.
- In a skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté for 3-4 minutes.
- Add 1 pound of ground beef, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Stir in 1 cup of pizza sauce and simmer for 2 minutes.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to ¼-inch thickness and press it into the greased pie dish.
- Spoon the beef and sauce mixture evenly into the dough-lined dish.
- Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese over the meat mixture, then layer with 20 slices of pepperoni and add ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Fold the overhanging edges of the dough toward the center, leaving a small opening for steam.
- Brush the exposed crust with the beaten egg.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cheese is bubbly.
- Let the pie rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Slice into wedges and serve warm.
