Description
Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza
Ingredients:
1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 lb ground beef
1/2 cup cooked crispy bacon, crumbled
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tbsp yellow mustard
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F). Roll out the pizza dough onto a baking sheet or pizza stone. Brush with olive oil and set aside. In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned, then drain excess fat. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and mustard, then remove from heat. Spread the beef mixture evenly over the pizza dough. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top, then add crumbled bacon. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly. Slice and serve hot. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results. First, prepare your dough on a lightly floured surface. If using store-bought dough, let it come to room temperature for easier handling. Roll or stretch it to your desired thickness on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Pre-bake the crust for 5 minutes to prevent sogginess. While it bakes, cook the beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it into small crumbles. After draining the fat, add the seasonings and sauces, cooking for another minute to blend flavors. Assemble by spreading the saucy beef over the par-baked crust, then layer the cheeses and bacon. Bake on the middle oven rack until perfectly melted and golden.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your pizza experience with these serving ideas. For a classic burger joint feel, serve with dill pickle spears, crispy onion strings, and small cups of extra ketchup and mustard for dipping. A simple side salad with a tangy ranch dressing helps cut through the richness. For a fun twist, offer toppings like shredded iceberg lettuce, diced tomatoes, or a drizzle of special sauce (mix mayo, ketchup, and relish) after baking. Pair with a cold lager or a creamy milkshake for the ultimate indulgence.
How-to Summary
In short: preheat oven to 220°C (425°F). Par-bake rolled-out dough for 5 minutes. Brown beef, drain fat, and season with spices, Worcestershire, ketchup, and mustard. Spread beef mix on crust, top with cheddar, mozzarella, and bacon. Bake for 10-12 minutes until crust is golden and cheese bubbles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked bacon? Absolutely. Pre-cooked bacon is a great time-saver. Simply crumble it and add it to the pizza. For extra flavor, look for a hickory-smoked variety.
How do I prevent a soggy crust? The key is the brief 5-minute pre-bake of the dough before adding toppings. Also, ensure your cooked beef mixture is not too wet; drain all fat thoroughly after browning.
Can I make this pizza ahead of time? You can prepare the beef mixture and cook the bacon up to 2 days in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. Assemble and bake the pizza fresh for the best texture.
What’s a good substitute for ground beef? Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative work well. Adjust seasoning to taste, as leaner meats may require a bit more seasoning or a splash of oil.
How do I get a crispier crust? Bake the pizza directly on a preheated pizza stone or an inverted baking sheet. The direct, intense heat will create a superior, crispy bottom crust.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the pre-bake: Adding toppings to raw dough often results in an undercooked, soggy center.
- Overloading toppings: Too much beef or cheese weighs down the dough and prevents even cooking. Use the amounts listed for balance.
- Using cold dough: Cold dough is difficult to stretch and can tear. Always let it rest at room temperature.
- Not draining the beef fat: Excess grease will make the pizza greasy and can cause the cheese to slide off.
Conclusion
This Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza masterfully combines two beloved classics into one irresistible meal. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common pitfalls, you’re guaranteed a crowd-pleasing dish with the perfect balance of savory beef, smoky bacon, and gooey cheese on a crispy crust. It’s a versatile recipe perfect for game nights, family dinners, or any occasion that calls for fun, delicious food. Experiment with the serving suggestions to make it your own, and enjoy the delicious fusion of flavors in every slice.