Description
Beef and Tomato Pizza
Ingredients:
1 pre-made pizza dough
1/2 cup pizza sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
200g ground beef (cooked and seasoned with salt and pepper)
1 medium tomato (sliced)
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
1 tsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Prepare the dough:
Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness and transfer to a pizza tray or baking sheet.
2. Add the toppings:
Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough.
Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Add the cooked ground beef and sliced tomatoes.
Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
3. Bake the pizza:
Drizzle olive oil over the pizza.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Garnish and serve:
Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Slice and serve warm.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for a foolproof pizza. First, preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) with a pizza stone or baking sheet inside if you have one—this ensures a crispier crust. While it heats, roll your dough on a floured surface to a 12-inch circle. For a perfect crust, gently stretch the dough with your hands instead of a rolling pin. Transfer it to a piece of parchment paper dusted with cornmeal or flour. This makes moving the pizza easy.
Next, spread the sauce, leaving a 1-inch border for the crust. Sprinkle the first layer of cheese directly onto the sauce; this acts as a glue for your toppings. Distribute the cooked, seasoned ground beef evenly, followed by the tomato slices. Top with the remaining cheese. Carefully slide the pizza (with the parchment) onto the hot stone or baking tray. Bake for 12-15 minutes, but start checking at 10 minutes. The pizza is done when the crust is puffed and golden, and the cheese is bubbly with slight browning.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty pizza pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with a balsamic vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a casual dinner party, serve it alongside garlic bread knots and a selection of dipping sauces like ranch or marinara. To elevate the meal, offer chili flakes, grated Parmesan, and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil at the table for custom finishing touches.
How-to Summary
To make Beef and Tomato Pizza: 1) Preheat oven to 220°C. 2) Roll out dough on floured surface. 3) Spread sauce, then half the cheese. 4) Add cooked beef and tomato slices. 5) Top with remaining cheese and a drizzle of oil. 6) Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden. 7) Garnish with fresh basil and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use raw ground beef instead of pre-cooked?
No, you must cook the beef first. Raw beef will release too much grease and water during baking, resulting in a soggy pizza and potentially undercooked meat.
How can I prevent a soggy crust?
Ensure your cooked beef is well-drained and cooled before adding. Also, slice tomatoes thinly and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover pizza?
Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a lid for a few minutes to crisp the bottom and melt the cheese, or use a toaster oven. Avoid the microwave, which makes the crust rubbery.
Can I prepare this pizza ahead of time?
You can pre-cook the beef and slice the tomatoes, storing them separately in the fridge. Assemble the pizza just before baking for the best texture.
What are good cheese substitutes?
For a different flavor, try a blend of mozzarella and provolone, or use a dairy-free mozzarella alternative. Avoid pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents, as it doesn’t melt as smoothly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overloading Toppings: Adding too much beef or cheese weighs down the dough and prevents even cooking.
- Using Cold Dough: Bring dough to room temperature for 30 minutes before shaping; it will be easier to stretch and won’t tear.
- Skipping the Preheating Step: A fully preheated oven (and stone/sheet) is crucial for a crispy, well-risen crust.
- Cutting Immediately: Let the pizza rest for 3-5 minutes after baking. This allows the cheese to set slightly so slices hold their shape.
Conclusion
This Beef and Tomato Pizza is a satisfying and customizable meal that proves homemade pizza can be simple yet impressive. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a perfectly balanced pizza with a flavorful crust, savory beef, and fresh tomato notes. Don’t be afraid to experiment with additional herbs or spices in the beef seasoning to make it your own. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!