Beef Pizza Pie Recipe – A Hearty, Cheesy Delight!
Looking for a comforting yet creative dish to spice up your dinner routine? This Beef Pizza Pie is the ultimate fusion of flavors and textures, combining the cheesy, savory goodness of pizza with the warmth and heartiness of a pie. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a solo indulgence. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients You’ll Need: 🍲
Here’s everything required to create this mouthwatering dish:
For the Filling:
- 🥩 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 🍅 1 cup pizza sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 🥜 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 🌿 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 🌿 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 🍄 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 🌶️ 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (any color you like – red, green, yellow, or orange)
- 🏟️ 1/2 cup chopped onions
For the Crust Batter:
- 🍴 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 🍳 1 egg (large, room temperature)
- 🥛 1/2 cup milk
- 🥑 2 tbsp melted butter
Step-by-Step Instructions 🎥
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish with cooking spray or a light coat of butter. This will ensure your pizza pie doesn’t stick and slides out easily for serving.
2. Cook the Beef Filling:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet to avoid a greasy pie.
- Add the pizza sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Batter for the Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, egg, milk, and melted butter. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick but pourable.
- This batter will form the crust of your pie, giving it a soft, bread-like texture that’s perfect for soaking up the rich flavors of the filling.
4. Assemble the Pizza Pie:
- Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly into the prepared pie dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top. The cheese will melt and create that irresistible gooey layer we all love.
- Pour the batter over the beef and cheese mixture, making sure to cover everything evenly. Use a spatula to smooth the top if needed.
5. Bake to Perfection:
- Place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
- Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent overbaking. The goal is a beautifully golden crust that’s cooked through but not overly crisp.
6. Cool and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the pizza pie from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. This resting time allows the filling to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
- Cut into wedges and serve warm. Pair it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. 🍽
Tips for Customization 🔧
Want to make this recipe truly your own? Here are some ideas:
- Switch Up the Cheese: Use cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in olives, spinach, zucchini, or diced tomatoes for added nutrition and color.
- Spice It Up: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes under an hour from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, meaty goodness of this dish.
- Versatile: You can easily adapt the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
- Comforting and Filling: The combination of flavors and textures will leave everyone satisfied.
Storage and Reheating Tips 🛋
If you have leftovers (though we doubt you will!), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerator: Store slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, pop a slice in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
FAQs About Beef Pizza Pie ❓
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture and batter a few hours in advance. Assemble and bake just before serving.
Q: Can I use chicken or turkey instead of beef? A: Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey are great substitutes and make the dish slightly lighter.
Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly? A: Definitely! The cheesy and flavorful filling is a hit with kids. You can even let them help with assembly for a fun cooking activity.
Serve and Share 🍽
This Beef Pizza Pie is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, shared with loved ones. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil leaves or parsley for a pop of color before serving. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. 🌟
Have you tried this recipe? Let us know in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this post with your friends and family so they can enjoy it too.
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