Beef Pizza Pie

Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite beats a hearty slice of pizza. However, what if you could take all the deliciousness of a pizza and turn it into a comforting pie? That’s where Beef Pizza Pie comes in! This recipe has quickly become a staple in our household. My family absolutely loves the combination of seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and crispy crust. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. Plus, it’s customizable with all your favorite toppings, making it a hit for both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Beef Pizza Pie, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup green bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce (or marinara sauce)
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup sliced pepperoni
• Optional toppings: sliced black olives, mushrooms, or any favorite pizza toppings

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your pie bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown.

Cook Beef Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the onions and bell peppers. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the vegetables are soft, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep the filling from being greasy.

Add Sauce and Seasoning

Once the beef and vegetables are cooked, stir in the pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer for a couple of minutes until everything is well combined. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Prepare Pie Crust

Place your pre-made pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan, gently pressing it into the sides and bottom. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own pie crust from scratch!

Layer the Pie

Now comes the fun part! Spread half of the mozzarella cheese on the bottom of the pie crust. Spoon the beef mixture over the cheese, then top it with the remaining mozzarella, cheddar cheese, and pepperoni slices. If you’re using any optional toppings like olives or mushrooms, now’s the time to add them!

Bake

Place the pie in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!

Serve

Once baked, let the pie cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the melty, savory goodness of your Beef Pizza Pie!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories: 480 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 750 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 32 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 23 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• Slice the pie into wedges.
• Serve warm with a side salad for a balanced meal.
• Offer extra toppings such as crushed red pepper flakes or grated Parmesan cheese.
• Pair with your favorite dipping sauces, like ranch or garlic sauce.
• Enjoy with a cold beverage or a glass of wine.

Additional Tips

1. Use Lean Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess fat in the pie.
2. Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add any of your favorite pizza toppings, such as mushrooms, olives, or jalapeños.
3. Homemade Sauce: If you have time, try making your own pizza sauce for a fresh taste.
4. Pre-bake the Crust: For an extra crispy crust, consider pre-baking the pie crust for about 5-7 minutes before adding the filling.
5. Leftovers: This pie reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave, making it great for leftovers!

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of chopped vegetables for a delicious vegetarian pie.
• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or spicy sausage to the filling for an extra kick.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack for a spicier flavor or gouda for a smoky taste.
• Mini Pies: Make individual mini pies using muffin tins for fun portion sizes, perfect for parties or snacks.
• Breakfast Pizza Pie: Incorporate scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage for a delightful brunch variation.

Serving Suggestions

• With Salad: Serve alongside a fresh garden salad dressed in a light vinaigrette.
• With Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic breadsticks or a warm baguette to soak up any extra sauce.
• With Pickles: Serve with dill pickles or pickled jalapeños for a tangy contrast.
• As a Party Snack: Cut into smaller pieces for a perfect finger food at gatherings.
• With Soup: Serve with a side of minestrone or tomato soup for a cozy meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftover Beef Pizza Pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Microwave individual slices for a quicker option.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

• Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage work well.

1. Is there a gluten-free option?

• You can use a gluten-free pie crust and ensure your pizza sauce is gluten-free.

1. How do I prevent a soggy bottom?

• Pre-bake the crust for a few minutes and ensure to drain excess fat from the beef.

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?

• Yes, frozen chopped peppers and onions can be a convenient alternative.

1. What can I do with leftovers?

• Leftovers can be reheated for a quick meal or used in a breakfast scramble.

1. How can I make it healthier?

• Use leaner meats, reduce cheese, and add more vegetables.

1. Can I prepare it in advance?

• Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the pie in advance. Just bake when ready.

1. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

1. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

• Absolutely! Kids love the combination of beef, cheese, and familiar pizza flavors.

1. Can I make it vegetarian?
   • Yes, just replace the beef with your favorite vegetables or meat substitute.

Conclusion

Beef Pizza Pie is a delightful twist on traditional pizza that combines the comforting aspects of a hearty pie with all your favorite pizza toppings. Its rich flavors, cheesy goodness, and customizable nature make it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Give it a try, and I guarantee it will become a favorite in your home just as it has in mine!

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