Ultimate Cheesy Pizza Burger Bake

Introduction

When I first stumbled upon the idea for the Ultimate Cheesy Pizza Burger Bake, I couldn’t wait to try it. Combining two of the best comfort foods—pizza and burgers—into one hearty, cheesy dish is a recipe for success. The family was immediately on board, and once I pulled this creation out of the oven, I could tell it would quickly become a favorite. The golden, flaky pizza crust encases a flavorful blend of seasoned ground beef, gooey mozzarella cheese, savory pizza sauce, and all the toppings that make pizza and burgers so irresistible.

What I love about this recipe is its versatility and ease. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, but it also makes for a crowd-pleasing dish when you’re hosting a party or family gathering. The combination of flavors is simply mouthwatering, and you can easily customize the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have in the fridge. Whether you’re craving a meaty pie with bacon and pepperoni or a lighter version with just veggies, this recipe has got you covered.

Ingredients

To make this Ultimate Cheesy Pizza Burger Bake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 package pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 lb (450 g) 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 cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
• 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/4 cup sliced bell peppers
• 1/4 cup sliced pickles (optional)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)

These ingredients combine the classic flavors of pizza with the deliciousness of a burger, creating the ultimate comfort food dish.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your own Ultimate Cheesy Pizza Burger Bake:

1. Preheat the oven:

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a pie dish or deep-dish pizza pan by lightly greasing it.

1. Cook the ground beef:

• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
• Drain the excess fat, and then season the beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.

1. Roll out the dough:

• On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large circle. It should be big enough to fit your pie dish or baking dish, leaving a little extra around the edges for folding.

1. Assemble the pie:

• Place the pizza dough into the prepared pie dish, allowing the edges to overhang slightly.
• Spread half of the pizza sauce over the bottom of the dough, covering it evenly.
• Layer the cooked ground beef on top of the sauce, followed by a generous portion of shredded mozzarella cheese.
• Add the crumbled bacon (if using), pepperoni slices, mushrooms, bell peppers, and pickles (if desired).
• Spread the remaining pizza sauce over the toppings and finish with another layer of mozzarella cheese.

1. Fold and seal:

• Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching them together to seal the pie. This will create a rustic, pocket-like crust that adds to the flavor.
• Brush the top of the dough with olive oil for a golden, crispy finish.

1. Bake the pie:

• Place the assembled pie in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to ensure the crust doesn’t overbake.

1. Serve:

• Let the pie cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy the ultimate combination of pizza and burgers!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition per serving, assuming the recipe makes 6 servings:

• Serving Size: 1/6 of the pie
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

These values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients used, but they provide a solid estimate of the nutritional content for this delicious bake.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

This dish comes together fairly quickly, making it a great option for busy evenings when you want something comforting and hearty.

How to Serve

The Ultimate Cheesy Pizza Burger Bake is a hearty dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and beverages:

• With a Side Salad: Serve the pie with a fresh side salad, such as a Caesar salad or a simple green salad, to balance out the richness of the dish.
• With Garlic Bread: A side of crispy garlic bread complements the cheesy, savory flavors of the casserole and adds a bit of crunch.
• With Dipping Sauces: Serve with a side of ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or garlic butter for dipping.
• For Family Meals: This bake is perfect for family dinners and can be cut into hearty portions for everyone to enjoy.

Additional Tips

1. Use Store-Bought Dough: If you’re short on time, store-bought pizza dough works just as well as homemade dough for this recipe. You can also use a pizza crust mix.
2. Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to swap out ingredients to suit your tastes. You can add or omit vegetables, swap the ground beef for sausage, or use different types of cheese.
3. Use Ground Turkey: For a lighter option, you can replace the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
4. Bake in a Cast Iron Skillet: For a more rustic look and crispy edges, bake this pizza burger bake in a well-seasoned cast iron skillet.
5. Add Extra Veggies: For a more filling, nutritious dish, consider adding more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or olives to the filling.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for black beans or a plant-based meat substitute. Add extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or artichokes to make it more hearty.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pizza dough to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Mexican-Inspired Version: Use taco seasoning for the ground beef, add jalapeños, corn, and black beans, and top with a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for a Tex-Mex twist.
• BBQ Pizza Burger Bake: Replace the pizza sauce with barbecue sauce and add cooked chicken, red onions, and crispy bacon for a BBQ flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• For Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep. Make a large batch, portion it out, and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days for quick lunches or dinners.
• For Parties: Make this dish for parties or gatherings. It’s easy to slice into squares and serve to a crowd, making it an ideal option for game day or a family get-together.
• Pair with Beverages: Serve with a cold beer, soda, or sparkling water for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This casserole freezes well for up to 3 months. After baking and cooling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until warm.
• Storing Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different kind of dough?
   Yes! You can use a pre-made pizza crust, crescent roll dough, or even puff pastry for a different texture.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
3. Can I use turkey instead of ground beef?
   Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
4. How do I prevent the crust from being too soggy?
   To avoid a soggy crust, make sure the beef mixture is cooked until the rice is fully tender before transferring it to the baking dish.
5. Can I add other cheeses?
   Yes, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, Gouda, or Parmesan for added flavor.
6. Can I use homemade pizza dough?
   Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough can give this casserole a more personal touch.
7. What can I substitute for pepperoni?
   You can substitute with salami, prosciutto, or even cooked chicken for a different flavor.
8. **How do I reheat leftovers

?**
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

9. Can I make this vegetarian?
   Yes, swap the ground beef for beans, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute.
10. How do I know when the casserole is done?
    The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden brown.

Conclusion

The Ultimate Cheesy Pizza Burger Bake is a fun and delicious fusion of pizza and burger flavors that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family meal or a dish to impress guests, this casserole is a guaranteed winner. Enjoy all the cheesy, savory goodness in every bite!

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