Sometimes, dinner calls for something familiar with a fun twist. That’s where the Pizza Burger Pie steps in—a golden-baked pie crust filled with juicy seasoned beef, savory pizza sauce, and melted cheese. It’s the kind of recipe that satisfies both the burger lover and the pizza fanatic in one slice. And the best part? You can have it on the table in under an hour.
This recipe is perfect for busy evenings, picky eaters, or those moments when you want something hearty and crowd-pleasing without fuss. Whether you’re feeding hungry kids or hosting game night, this dish will disappear fast. Let’s get into how you can make your very own Pizza Burger Pie, plus all the tips to make it perfect every time.
“It was a cold Tuesday evening when I first made this recipe on a whim. My kids couldn’t decide between burgers or pizza, so I combined both—and it was an instant hit. Since then, it’s been my secret weapon when I need a guaranteed winner for dinner.”
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Pizza Burger Pie
- Quick to prepare: With just 30 minutes of prep, you can have dinner baking in the oven.
- Kid-friendly: The flavors are familiar and comforting—perfect for even the pickiest eaters.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or swap the cheese to keep things exciting.
- One-dish dinner: No side dishes needed unless you want to jazz it up with a salad or drink pairing.
Ingredients and Quantities
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup | For the crust |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon | Helps the crust rise |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | For flavor |
| Shortening | 1/4 cup | Can substitute with butter |
| Milk | 1/4 cup | For binding the dough |
| Egg | 1 | Beaten, for the dough |
| Ground beef | 1 pound | Lean is preferred |
| Onion | 1 medium, chopped | Yellow or white |
| Green bell pepper | 1, diced | Adds texture and flavor |
| Pizza sauce | 1 cup | Choose your favorite brand |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 1 cup | For that gooey top |
| Optional toppings | To taste | Pepperoni, mushrooms, olives, etc. |
How to Make Pizza Burger Pie
1. Make the Crust
Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the shortening until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. In a separate bowl, beat the egg with the milk. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until a soft dough forms.
On a floured surface, roll out the dough to fit a 9-inch pie plate. Press the dough into the dish, covering the bottom and sides evenly. You can crimp the edges if you’re feeling fancy—but no pressure.
2. Cook the Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and cook until softened—about 5 minutes. Stir in the pizza sauce and mix well. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.
3. Assemble the Pie
Spoon the beef mixture into the prepared crust. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Add any extra toppings you like—this is your chance to get creative. Some popular options include:
- Pepperoni slices
- Diced mushrooms
- Chopped black olives
- Crumbled bacon
- Banana peppers
4. Bake
Place the pie in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps everything set so you get clean slices.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 23g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Fat | 23g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Sodium | 650mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 4g |
Tips to Make It Even Better
- Use pre-made crust if you’re short on time—just roll it out and go.
- Make it spicy by adding crushed red pepper or jalapeños to the beef mixture.
- Try cheese blends like mozzarella and cheddar for a richer taste.
- Make mini pies in a muffin tin for party-ready servings or lunchboxes.
“Don’t stress if your crust isn’t picture-perfect. It’s all about the flavor—and trust me, no one’s complaining when it’s gone in seconds.”
Serving Ideas
This dish is pretty hearty on its own, but if you’re serving guests or want to stretch the meal, here are a few simple sides that pair well:
- Side salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness
- Garlic breadsticks or toasted baguette slices
- Roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or zucchini
Perfect Drink Pairings
Pizza Burger Pie goes down easy with a refreshing drink on the side. Here are some suggestions depending on who’s at the table:
- For adults: A cold lager, pale ale, or a glass of Merlot pairs beautifully with the bold flavors.
- For kids: Apple juice, lemonade, or an ice-cold glass of milk keeps things classic and fun.
FAQs About Pizza Burger Pie
Can I substitute the ground beef?
Absolutely. If you’re looking to make it lighter or accommodate dietary preferences, you have several options:
- Ground turkey or chicken works well and absorbs flavor beautifully.
- Plant-based crumbles make this dish vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing texture.
- Italian sausage (mild or spicy) adds a new depth of flavor and a bit of a kick.
Can I use store-bought crust?
Yes. Pre-made crust is a huge time-saver and works just as well in this recipe. If you’re using a refrigerated pie crust, just let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before unrolling. Then press it gently into your pie dish.
“I’ve used both homemade and store-bought crusts depending on the day. If I’ve got extra time, making it from scratch is fun. But when life’s hectic, the store-bought version saves dinner.”
Can I freeze Pizza Burger Pie?
Definitely. Here’s how to do it right:
- Before baking: Assemble the pie in a freezer-safe dish, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze. When ready to bake, add 10-15 extra minutes to your baking time.
- After baking: Let it cool completely, slice into portions, and store in freezer bags. Reheat slices in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes.
How long does it keep in the fridge?
You can store leftover Pizza Burger Pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the oven or microwave. For best results, use the oven—it keeps the crust crisp.
How do I prevent a soggy crust?
The trick is to pre-bake the crust for 5-7 minutes before adding the filling. Also, make sure your filling isn’t too watery. Cooking down the beef and vegetables helps reduce moisture.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, and it’s a great idea for busy weeknights. Assemble the pie in the morning and refrigerate it until ready to bake in the evening. Just add a few extra minutes to your bake time since it’s starting cold.
Creative Variations to Try
Once you’ve made the classic version, there’s no limit to how you can switch things up. Here are a few ideas to put your own spin on this family favorite:
| Variation | Key Ingredients | Flavor Notes |
|---|---|---|
| BBQ Bacon Burger Pie | BBQ sauce, crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese | Sweet and smoky with a crispy bacon bite |
| Veggie Pizza Pie | Mushrooms, spinach, onions, black olives | Light and earthy with a meatless twist |
| Spicy Jalapeño Pie | Jalapeños, spicy sausage, pepper jack cheese | Packed with heat and bold flavor |
| Breakfast Burger Pie | Scrambled eggs, sausage, hash browns | Great for brunch or breakfast-for-dinner |
| Hawaiian Style | Ham, pineapple, mozzarella | Sweet meets savory in a fun twist |
Restaurant-Style Presentation Tips
Even if you’re serving dinner at home on a busy Wednesday night, there are simple ways to make your Pizza Burger Pie look as good as it tastes:
- Use a deep-dish pie pan for clean, even slices that hold together well.
- Brush the crust with a little egg wash before baking for a glossy, golden finish.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil for color and aroma.
- Serve with dipping sauces like garlic aioli, ranch, or extra pizza sauce for added fun.
“Sometimes I’ll slice it, add a tiny sprig of basil, and drizzle a little garlic oil on the plate. It looks gourmet, but it takes two minutes—and my guests always notice.”
Storage and Reheating Made Simple
Pizza Burger Pie is not just great for dinner—it also makes fantastic leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat it without losing flavor or texture:
- In the refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the freezer: Wrap individual slices in foil, then place in a zip-top freezer bag. Keeps for up to 2 months.
Reheating Tips
- Oven: Best method for keeping the crust crisp. Bake at 350°F for 10–15 minutes.
- Microwave: Faster, but the crust may soften. Microwave 1 slice on a microwave-safe plate for 1–2 minutes.
- Toaster oven: Perfect for small batches. Reheats evenly with a crunchy finish.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s your first time trying this or it’s already a part of your weeknight dinner routine, Pizza Burger Pie brings comfort and fun to your kitchen. It’s everything you love about two classic dishes in one easy-to-make recipe. The crust is buttery and soft, the filling is hearty and satisfying, and each bite feels like a warm hug after a long day.
If you’re juggling work, family, and a never-ending to-do list, this is the kind of meal that gives you a break without skimping on flavor. And if your kids ask for seconds (they will), you’ll know it’s a recipe worth repeating.
“Some recipes just stick. This one has found a permanent spot in our rotation—not just because it’s easy, but because it makes dinner feel like something to look forward to.”