Ah, Beef Pizza Pie! Now, this dish holds a special place in my heart. Growing up, every Friday night was pizza night at my house, and my parents would experiment with different toppings. But I must say, when my dad introduced this Beef Pizza Pie, it quickly became a family favorite. The combination of tender beef, gooey cheese, and savory spices made our taste buds sing!
What makes this recipe unique is the way the beef becomes marinated with a medley of herbs and spices, which perfectly complements the crispy crust. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! I remember the aroma wafting through our home, and we couldn’t wait to dive in. If you’re looking for a hearty, delicious meal that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner, look no further.
What’s in Beef Pizza Pie?
Ground Beef: The star of the show! Juicy and flavorful, I recommend using a good-quality ground beef with an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for that perfect balance of flavor and tenderness.
Pizza Dough: You can make your own or buy store-bought, but a fluffy and slightly crispy base is crucial. Homemade dough gives it a personal touch, but if you’re short on time, no shame in using store-bought!
Pizza Sauce: A rich, savory sauce is vital to tie all the flavors together. I love a zesty tomato sauce with a hint of garlic and herbs. If I’m in a rush, I opt for a good-quality jarred sauce.
Cheese: You can’t have pizza without loads of melty cheese! I usually go for a mix of mozzarella for its stretchiness and a bit of cheddar for that sharp flavor.
Bell Peppers & Onions: These add vibrant colors and sweetness. I often use a combination of green and red bell peppers, along with some onions, for that extra crunch and flavor boost.
Is Beef Pizza Pie Good for You?
This delicious pie can definitely fit into a balanced diet, but like all good things, it’s best enjoyed in moderation.
Ground Beef: It’s a fantastic source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and vitamin B12, great for energy levels! However, if you’re watching your saturated fat intake, leaner cuts would be beneficial.
Pizza Dough: If you’re making your own, you can control what goes into it. Whole grain flour is a great alternative for a nuttier flavor and additional fiber.
Cheese: Cheese provides calcium and protein, but it can also be high in calories and fat. Using part-skim mozzarella is a yummy compromise without sacrificing flavor.
While it’s definitely a treat, pairing your slice with a lovely side salad can help balance out the meal!
Here’s What You Need:
– **1 lb ground beef** (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
– **1 pizza dough** (homemade or store-bought, enough for 1 large pizza)
– **1 cup pizza sauce**
– **2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese**
– **1 cup mixed bell peppers** (sliced)
– **1/2 cup onions** (sliced)
– **1 tablespoon Italian seasoning**
– **Salt and pepper to taste**
This recipe will serve about 4 people, perfect for a family dinner or a movie night with friends!
How to Make Beef Pizza Pie?
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the beef, and mix well. Set it aside.
4. Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer it to a greased pizza pan or baking sheet.
5. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the base.
6. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
7. Layer the cooked beef evenly on top.
8. Add the sliced bell peppers and onions over the beef.
9. Finally, top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
11. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy!
Slice of Heaven: Tips and Tricks
– If you want to spice things up, consider adding some red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle them on top!
– Feel free to experiment with other toppings like mushrooms or olives.
– Leftover slices make for great next-day lunches! Just pop them in the microwave or heat them up in the oven to regain that lovely crisp texture.
I can’t express enough how wonderful it is to share this Beef Pizza Pie with others. There’s something special about gathering friends and family around a homemade pizza, sharing laughs, and creating memories. So, give it a try! I promise you won’t be disappointed. Cook it up, and don’t forget to let me know how it turns out!
