Description
Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza
Ingredients:
1 pre-made pizza crust or homemade pizza dough
1/2 cup pizza sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 lb ground beef, cooked and crumbled
4 slices crispy bacon, chopped
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
Prepare the Crust:
Place the pizza crust on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
Cook the Ground Beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until browned. Drain any excess grease.
Assemble the Pizza:
Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the crust.
Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the sauce.
Distribute the cooked ground beef and crispy bacon evenly across the pizza.
Top with the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
Bake:
Place the pizza in the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top, if desired.
Slice and serve your loaded bacon cheeseburger pizza hot!
Enjoy this indulgent twist on pizza, packed with all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results every time. Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a baking sheet or pizza stone inside. This ensures a crispy crust. While the oven heats, cook 1/2 lb of ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Season it with 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, salt, and pepper. Drain all excess grease thoroughly to prevent a soggy pizza. Next, prepare your toppings: shred 1 cup mozzarella and 1/2 cup cheddar cheese if not pre-shredded, and chop 4 slices of crispy cooked bacon. Carefully remove the hot baking surface from the oven, place your crust on it, and quickly spread 1/2 cup of pizza sauce evenly, leaving a small border. Layer half the cheeses, all the beef and bacon, then the remaining cheese. Bake immediately for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty pizza is a meal on its own, but pairing it correctly elevates the experience. Serve slices with a side of crisp dill pickle chips, a small bowl of special burger sauce (mix ketchup, mayo, and relish) for dipping, and a light, tangy coleslaw to cut through the richness. For a casual gathering, cut into small squares for easy appetizer portions. A cold lager, creamy milkshake, or sparkling lemonade are perfect beverage pairings.
How-to Summary
In brief: Preheat oven to 450°F. Cook seasoned ground beef and drain grease. On a pizza crust, layer sauce, half the cheese, the cooked beef, chopped bacon, and remaining cheese. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked beef or bacon? Yes, pre-cooked crumbles or bacon bits work for convenience. For best flavor, briefly warm them before adding to the pizza.
How can I prevent a soggy crust? Ensure your cooked beef is thoroughly drained of grease and pat it dry with a paper towel. Also, avoid overloading the pizza with sauce.
Can I make this pizza ahead of time? You can pre-cook the beef and bacon and store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble and bake just before serving.
What are good cheese substitutes? Provolone, Monterey Jack, or a smoked gouda can replace cheddar for a different flavor profile. For melty texture, keep some mozzarella.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled slices in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat or in a toaster oven to keep the crust crisp; avoid the microwave.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not draining the cooked beef adequately, leading to a greasy, soggy pizza.
- Overloading the pizza with toppings, which can prevent even cooking and a crispy crust.
- Using cold toppings straight from the fridge, which can lower the oven temperature and affect bake time.
- Baking on a cold baking sheet instead of preheating it, resulting in a soft, undercooked bottom crust.
- Slicing the pizza immediately after baking, causing the cheese and toppings to slide off. Let it rest for 3-5 minutes.
Conclusion
This Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza masterfully combines two beloved classics into one irresistible, crowd-pleasing dish. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can achieve a perfectly crispy crust loaded with savory, cheesy flavor. It’s a versatile recipe perfect for weeknight dinners or game-day feasts. Experiment with the serving suggestions and make it your own. Enjoy the delicious fusion of pizza and burger in every slice!