Cheesy Pizza Burger Bake
Introduction
Cheesy Pizza Burger Bake is a fun and delicious meal that combines two favorites: pizza and burgers! It’s cheesy, savory, and perfect for any occasion. This dish is super easy to make, and it’s sure to please everyone in the family.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great for busy weeknights or for weekends when you want to enjoy something special without too much fuss. Plus, it’s an exciting twist on classic pizza that you can customize with your favorite toppings. You can serve it at parties, family dinners, or even just a cozy night in.
How to Make Cheesy Pizza Burger Bake
Here’s how you can whip up this tasty dish at home!
Ingredients:
- 1 package pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Season the cooked beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the pizza sauce and mix until combined.
- Roll out the pizza dough in a baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving enough dough on the edges to fold over the filling later.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top and add pepperoni slices if using.
- Fold the dough edges over the filling, leaving the center exposed. Brush the dough with a bit of olive oil, if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil before serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Pizza Burger Bake
Serve your Cheesy Pizza Burger Bake hot from the oven! Cut it into squares or pieces and enjoy. It goes great with a simple salad or some dipping sauce on the side.
How to Store Cheesy Pizza Burger Bake
If you have leftovers, let them cool down first. Then, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Tips to Make Cheesy Pizza Burger Bake
- Feel free to switch up the toppings! Add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- If you want a bit more spice, add some red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
- Make sure not to overcook the beef before adding the sauces, as it will cook more in the oven.
Variation
You can turn this into a vegetarian option by using plant-based ground meat or extra vegetables. You can also try different cheeses, like cheddar or pepper jack, for a fun twist on flavors!
FAQs
Q: Can I use homemade pizza dough?
A: Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough works great for this recipe and adds a personal touch.
Q: What if I don’t have any pizza sauce?
A: You can use spaghetti sauce or any tomato-based sauce as a substitute.
Q: Can I freeze the Cheesy Pizza Burger Bake?
A: Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer. When ready to eat, bake it frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.