Pizza Burger Pie: A Delicious Twist on Classic Pizza and Burger Flavors
Pizza and burgers are two of the most beloved comfort foods. But what if you could combine the best of both worlds into one mouth-watering dish? Enter the Pizza Burger Pie—a unique, savory meal that brings together the flavors of a pizza and a burger in a simple, easy-to-make pie. This dish is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step instructions for making this delectable Pizza Burger Pie, along with tips and tricks to make it even better. By the end, you’ll have a complete understanding of how to make this dish your own and create a meal that everyone will love.
Why Choose Pizza Burger Pie?
Before we dive into the recipe itself, let’s explore why Pizza Burger Pie is such a fantastic option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Here are some reasons why this dish should be on your radar:
1. It’s Easy to Make
The recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require complicated ingredients or techniques. In just about an hour, you can have a homemade Pizza Burger Pie that tastes just like the restaurant version!
2. It’s Versatile
You can tweak the recipe to suit your tastes. Whether you prefer ground turkey, chicken, or a meat-free option like plant-based ground beef, this dish can be adapted to accommodate your dietary preferences.
3. Perfect for Meal Prep
Since it’s baked in a pie dish, you can easily portion out servings for future meals. This is a great way to make sure you have a delicious homemade meal ready for the week ahead.
4. A Crowd-Pleaser
Pizza and burgers are universally loved, so this recipe is sure to impress your family, friends, or any guests you’re hosting.
Pizza Burger Pie Ingredients
This recipe requires simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry or fridge. Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering Pizza Burger Pie:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef (at least 80% lean): The main protein in this dish, providing that satisfying savory flavor.
- 1 large onion (chopped, about 1 cup): Adds depth and sweetness to the beef, making it more flavorful.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: For seasoning the meat and bringing out all the other flavors.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (4 oz): The gooey, melty cheese that gives this dish that irresistible pizza topping texture.
- 1/2 cup Original Bisquick™ mix: This will form the base of the batter and create a soft, dough-like texture.
- 1 cup milk: To help bring the batter together, making it the perfect consistency for pouring over the meat.
- 2 eggs: To bind the ingredients together and help set the batter as it bakes.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Pizza Burger Pie
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into how to prepare this incredible Pizza Burger Pie. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a hot, fresh pie ready in no time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, spray a 9-inch glass pie plate with cooking spray to ensure the pie doesn’t stick.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Onion
In a 10-inch skillet, cook 1 lb of lean ground beef along with the chopped 1 cup of onion over medium heat. Stir occasionally and cook for about 8-10 minutes, until the beef is browned and the onions are softened.
Once the meat is fully cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Then, stir in 1/2 teaspoon of salt to season the meat. This will enhance the flavor and help balance out the richness of the beef.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Spread the cooked beef and onion mixture evenly in the prepared pie plate. Then, sprinkle the 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the beef. This layer of cheese will melt beautifully, creating a delicious, gooey texture.
Step 4: Prepare the Batter
In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup of Bisquick mix, 1 cup of milk, and 2 eggs until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. This batter will form the base of the pie, providing a soft and fluffy texture that contrasts perfectly with the savory beef and cheese.
Step 5: Pour the Batter Over the Beef and Cheese
Pour the batter evenly over the beef and cheese mixture in the pie plate. Be sure to cover the entire surface, ensuring the cheese and beef are submerged in the batter. The batter will rise and form a golden, crusty topping as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake the Pie
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly crispy.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the pie is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice it up into wedges and serve hot. If you want to take it to the next level, add some extra toppings such as crushed red pepper, more shredded cheese, or fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Pizza Burger Pie
While this recipe is easy to follow, there are a few tips and tricks that can elevate it even further. Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your Pizza Burger Pie turns out perfectly every time.
1. Use Lean Ground Beef
Using lean ground beef (at least 80%) ensures that your pie is flavorful without being too greasy. If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
2. Add Your Favorite Pizza Toppings
This recipe is highly customizable. Feel free to add some of your favorite pizza toppings, like pepperoni, bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives, to the meat mixture. This will give your pie even more of a pizza-like flavor.
3. Spice It Up
If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the meat mixture. You can also season the batter with Italian seasoning or garlic powder for extra flavor.
4. Make It a Full Meal
To make your Pizza Burger Pie a more complete meal, serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread. This will help balance the richness of the pie and provide some fresh vegetables alongside the hearty flavors.
Pizza Burger Pie Variations
While the original recipe is delicious on its own, there are many ways to get creative with this dish. Here are some variations to try:
1. Vegetarian Pizza Burger Pie
Replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers. This will give you all the savory flavors without the meat.
2. Italian-Style Pizza Burger Pie
For an Italian twist, add some marinara sauce over the beef before adding the cheese. You can also mix in some Italian sausage for a more robust flavor.
3. Gluten-Free Pizza Burger Pie
For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of the Bisquick mix, and make sure your pie crust is also gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make Pizza Burger Pie ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the pie in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, simply bake it according to the instructions.
Can I freeze Pizza Burger Pie?
Yes, you can freeze Pizza Burger Pie. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake it at 350°F until heated through.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out cheddar cheese for mozzarella, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses. Each type of cheese will give the pie a different flavor and texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Pizza Burger Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven.
Conclusion
Pizza Burger Pie is a fantastic dish that combines the best of two worlds—pizza and burgers—into one comforting and satisfying meal. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, it’s a dish anyone can make and enjoy. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a dinner party, or simply craving comfort food, this pizza-inspired pie is sure to hit the spot.