Hey y’all! If you love pizza and burgers, then do I have a treat for you: the irresistible Pizza Burger Pie! This fusion dish combines the cheesy, savory goodness of pizza with the juicy, meaty flavors of a classic burger, all encased in a flaky, golden pie crust. It’s perfect for family dinners, game nights, or whenever you need a comforting meal. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Combines the best of both worlds: pizza and burgers.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients.
- Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers.
- Customizable with your favorite pizza and burger toppings.
- Great for casual gatherings or weeknight meals.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 premade pie crust (or homemade)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Directions
Prepare the Filling
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef, salt, and pepper, cooking until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Assemble the Pie
Stir in the pizza sauce and Italian seasoning, mixing well. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in the cheeses and pepperoni slices. Let it cool slightly.
Construct the Pie
Roll out the pie crust and lay it into a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the beef mixture, spreading evenly. Cover with another layer of pie crust, sealing the edges. Brush the top with beaten egg.
Bake the Pie
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let the pie cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- To make it extra cheesy, sprinkle more mozzarella on top before baking. Learn more about perfect cheeseburger techniques here.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the filling.
- Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative pie crust finish.
Variations
- Vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers.
- Cheesy Explosion: Add a layer of cream cheese beneath the top crust.
- Spicy Italian: Use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
Required Equipment
- 9-inch pie dish
- Large skillet
- Rolling pin
- Basting brush
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. The pie can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Suggested Pairings
Serve this Pizza Burger Pie with a fresh green salad or crispy garlic bread for a complete meal. Pair it with a cold beer or a chilled soda for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Pro Tips
- For a flaky crust, ensure your pie dough is cold before baking. Read more about pie crust techniques.
- Let the pie rest before cutting to prevent the filling from spilling out.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste; a dash of garlic powder can enhance the flavor.
FAQ
- Can I use homemade pie crust?
Absolutely! A homemade crust adds a personal touch and can enhance the flavor. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to keep the crust crispy. - Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and assemble the pie, then refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.