Delicious Pizza Burger Pie Recipes You’ll Love

Introduction: What is a Pizza Burger Pie?

Are you looking for a dinner that’s out-of-this-world delicious and satisfies both your pizza and burger cravings? In a world where we love to mash up our favorite comfort foods, have you ever wondered if you could have the best of both worlds in a single, glorious dish? Well, wonder no more! Our Pizza Burger Pie is the ultimate culinary creation, fusing the savory satisfaction of a juicy burger with the delightful flavors of a classic pizza, all encased in a flaky, golden crescent roll crust. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that will have your family begging for seconds and you planning your next bake. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner solution or a fun-filled weekend treat that’s surprisingly simple to make.

Ingredients for Your Pizza Burger Pie

Crafting this delectable pie is a symphony of familiar, craveable ingredients. We’ve aimed for a balance of savory, cheesy, and comforting, with just a hint of tangy pizza sauce to tie it all together. The aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes is simply divine!

For the Filling:

• 1 lb lean ground beef (85% or 90% lean is ideal for flavor without excessive grease)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion (adds a sweet, pungent base)
• 1/4 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce (dredging that classic tomatoey goodness)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for that essential savory kick)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme for authentic pizza flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste, to enhance all the flavors)
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground for a subtle heat)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for that irresistible, melt-in-your-mouth stretch)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (adds a sharper, more complex cheesy note)
• 1/4 cup beef pepperoni, chopped (adds salty, spicy bursts of flavor)

For the Crust:

• 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent dinner rolls (the flaky, buttery foundation)

Optional Toppings:

• Extra pizza sauce for dipping
• Ranch dressing for dipping
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (adds a pop of color and freshness)

Substitutions and Tips:

• Ground Meat: Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, though the flavor will be less robust.
• Cheese: A blend of provolone and mozzarella is also fantastic. If you’re a pepperoni lover, add more!
• Onions: If you’re not a fan of onion bits, you can omit them or use onion powder (about 1/2 teaspoon).
• Sauce: Use your favorite jarred marinara or a homemade pizza sauce.
• Seasoning: Adjust herbs and spices to your preference. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice heat.

Timing is Everything

Compared to the average pizza or burger recipe, this Pizza Burger Pie significantly cuts down on the fuss. While a homemade pizza can take an hour or more from start to finish, and a gourmet burger might involve grilling and assembling multiple components, this pie comes together much faster. The refrigerated crescent rolls are a major time-saver, providing a ready-made, flaky crust that bakes to perfection in under 30 minutes. This makes it an ideal candidate for a speedy weeknight meal when time is of the essence but you’re craving something truly satisfying.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! This recipe is designed to be straightforward and enjoyable, even for beginner cooks. Just follow these simple steps and prepare for a taste sensation!

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your oven is at the perfect temperature for baking the crescent roll crust to a beautiful golden brown. While the oven heats up, lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or a similar-sized oven-safe skillet. This prevents sticking and makes for easier cleanup.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Break up the meat with a spoon and cook until the beef is browned and the onion is tender, about 6-8 minutes. Drain off any excess grease thoroughly – this is key to a non-greasy pie and a cleaner crust. Stir in the pizza sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until everything is well combined and fragrant. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

Now for the fun part! Unroll the two cans of crescent dinner rolls. Separate them into triangles and press the seams together to form a solid dough. Line the bottom and up the sides of your prepared pie dish or skillet with this dough, ensuring there are no large gaps. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly smooth; rustic charm is part of the appeal! Spoon the cooked beef mixture evenly over the bottom crust. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the beef mixture, followed by the chopped pepperoni. These cheesy layers are what make it truly irresistible.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Carefully place the pie dish on a baking sheet (to catch any potential drips). Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crescent roll crust is a deep golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted. If the edges of the crust start to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent the pie with aluminum foil.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once baked to golden perfection, remove the Pizza Burger Pie from the oven. It’s important to let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the fillings to set slightly, preventing the pie from falling apart when you cut into it. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve hot, with extra pizza sauce or ranch for dipping on the side!

Nutritional Information

While individual ingredients can vary, one serving (assuming 6 servings per pie) of this delicious Pizza Burger Pie typically offers:

• Calories: Approximately 450-550 kcal
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fat: 25-35g (saturated fat will vary based on meat and cheese used)
• Carbohydrates: 20-25g
• Sodium: Varies greatly based on cheese and pepperoni used, but can be high.

*Please note: These are estimated nutritional values and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient choices.

Healthier Alternatives

You can easily make this Pizza Burger Pie a healthier option without sacrificing too much flavor. Consider these swaps:

• Leaner Meat: Opt for 93% or 99% lean ground turkey or chicken.
• Lower-Fat Cheese: Use reduced-fat mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.
• Whole Wheat Crust: If you can find them, whole wheat crescent rolls can offer more fiber. Or, consider a homemade whole wheat pizza dough.
• Veggie Boost: Finely chop and sauté some mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach along with the onions for added nutrients and fiber.
• Reduced Sodium Sauce: Look for lower-sodium pizza or marinara sauces.

Serving Suggestions

This Pizza Burger Pie is a complete meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a few sides to round out your dining experience:

• Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are simple and healthy additions.
• Garlic Bread: For an extra carb-loaded, indulgent meal, serve with a side of garlic bread.
• Dipping Sauces: Always a hit with kids and adults alike – offer extra pizza sauce, marinara, or ranch for dipping the crust.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Pizza Burger Pie turns out perfectly every time, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

• Not Draining Grease: Overly greasy beef will make the filling soggy and can make the crust oily and less crisp. Drain thoroughly!
• Overcrowding the Pan: If using a pie dish, don’t overfill it with the meat mixture, or it might spill over during baking.
• Not Sealing the Crust: Make sure to press the crescent roll seams together well to create a unified crust.
• Underbaking: Ensure the crust is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted and bubbly for the best texture and flavor.
• Slicing Too Soon: A short resting period is crucial for the pie to set and be easier to cut.

Storing your Pizza Burger Pie

Leftovers are a delicious bonus! Once completely cooled, store any leftover Pizza Burger Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual slices in the oven or a toaster oven for the best crispness, or in the microwave for a quick, though less crispy, option.

Frequently Asked Questions

***What kind of pan is best for this recipe?***

A 9-inch pie dish is traditional and works beautifully. Alternatively, a 9-inch oven-safe skillet, like cast iron, is also excellent. Both provide even heating and make for a nice presentation.

***Can I make this ahead of time?***

You can prepare the meat mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, it’s best to assemble and bake the pie just before serving for the freshest, crispiest crust.

***How do I prevent the bottom crust from getting soggy?***

The best ways are to ensure your meat filling is not too wet (drain grease well and don’t add extra liquid to the beef mixture) and to bake the pie on a preheated baking sheet. This helps circulate hot air around the bottom crust, aiding in crisping.

***Can I freeze this pizza burger pie?***

We don’t recommend freezing the assembled pie as the crescent roll crust can become soggy upon thawing and reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

***What are some other topping ideas?***

Get creative! Sliced black olives, diced mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick would all be delicious additions.