Easy Beef Pizza Pie Bake

This Beef Pizza Pie brings together all your favorite pizza flavors inside a crisp, buttery pie crust for a dish that satisfies on even the busiest nights. With a rich meaty filling and bubbly, melted cheese, it is my go-to for when anyone in the house has a pizza craving but I do not want the fuss of making dough from scratch.

The first time I made this for a last-minute game night everyone went for seconds and now my friends always ask if pizza pie is on the menu when they visit.

Ingredients

• Pre-made pie crust: gives a buttery base with minimal effort Make sure it is fresh and not cracked for a sturdy shell
• Ground beef: adds savory richness and makes the pie filling hearty Choose 80 percent lean for the right balance of flavor and juiciness
• Olive oil: ensures everything cooks evenly and brings a hint of fruitiness Use extra virgin if possible
• Diced onion: develops sweetness and rounds out the beef flavor Pick a firm onion with no soft spots
• Diced bell pepper: offers color and crunch Go for a red or yellow one for sweeter notes
• Garlic powder: builds a warm background flavor Make sure it is fresh for the boldest taste
• Italian seasoning: brings classic pizza vibes Use a blend with oregano and basil for the most authentic flavor
• Salt and pepper: enhance every layer Taste as you go so nothing is bland
• Pizza sauce: provides tomato richness and a tangy finish Choose a robust jarred sauce or make your own for extra freshness
• Shredded mozzarella: melts beautifully and gives the signature pizza stretch Buy a block and shred it yourself for best texture
• Grated Parmesan: intensifies the cheesy topping Always pick real Parmigiano Reggiano if you can
• Pepperoni slices or any favorite pizza topping: personalize every slice Use high-quality cured meats or freshly sliced veggies
• Fresh basil: for a pop of green and peppery freshness Add it at the end so it stays vibrant

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Crust:

Fit the pie crust carefully into a nine inch pie dish making sure there are no cracks or gaps Pat it down gently and crimp the edges for an even bake A chilled crust gives the best flaky texture

Cook the Beef Filling:

Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Stir in the ground beef diced onion and bell pepper Cook for around six minutes until the beef is fully browned and the veggies are soft Stir often so nothing scorches Drain off any fat for a lighter filling

Season and Sauce:

Sprinkle in garlic powder Italian seasoning salt and pepper Mix well until the aromas bloom Pour in pizza sauce and mix again letting the beef soak up the flavors Remove from the heat so nothing overcooks

Assemble the Pie:

Spoon half of the beef and sauce mixture into the crust making an even layer Scatter half the mozzarella and Parmesan over the beef Top with chosen pizza extras like pepperoni or mushrooms Repeat with the rest of the beef then finish with the final cheese layer

Bake the Pie:

Slide the pie into a preheated three hundred seventy five degree oven and bake for twenty five to thirty minutes Watch for the edges turning golden and the cheese bubbling on top If needed cover loosely with foil for the last five minutes to prevent overbrowning

Finish and Serve:

Set the hot pie on a rack and let it cool for about five minutes Slice cleanly with a sharp knife Garnish with fresh basil for extra color and aroma

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My favorite part is always adding basil on top The scent reminds me of my grandmother making homemade pizza sauce and every time I smell it I feel right at home My kids now take turns sprinkling the cheese and arguing over the last piece

Storage Tips

Wrap leftovers tightly or place in an airtight box and store in the refrigerator for up to three days For best flavor reheat single slices in a toaster oven until the cheese is bubbly again You can freeze the whole pie unbaked then thaw before baking fresh

Ingredient Substitutions

Try ground turkey or even plant-based crumbles if you prefer less beef For the crust a gluten-free or cauliflower version works in a pinch Any cheese that melts well like provolone or cheddar can sub in for mozzarella for a new twist

Serving Suggestions

Pair this pizza pie with a crisp green salad tossed with balsamic and some garlic knots for a complete meal For parties cut into small wedges and serve as a crowd pleasing appetizer plus a side of warm marinara for dipping

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Fun Context

Pizza pie mashups like this one have been around in American kitchens for decades It is a favorite in regions where Italian American families adapted classic pizza flavors for family style casseroles and quick bakes This recipe is just as handy for busy modern cooks

Commonly Asked Questions

→ Can I use homemade crust instead of store-bought?

Yes, homemade pie crust works well and offers a flakier texture, though a pre-made crust adds convenience for busy nights.

→ What toppings go well with this dish?

Classic pizza toppings like pepperoni, black olives, mushrooms, diced tomatoes, and fresh basil make great additions to this bake.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best texture and flavor.

→ Can I make it spicier?

Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes or swap some beef for spicy sausage to give the filling extra heat.

→ Is this dish freezer friendly?

You can freeze the assembled, unbaked pie. Wrap it well, then bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to cook time.