Deep-Dish Cheesy Beef Pizza Pie for Ultimate Comfort Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To achieve an extra-crispy crust, brush the outside of the dough with a small amount of olive oil before adding the fillings. This helps the dough conduct heat more efficiently and adds a beautiful sheen to the final result. If you prefer a more intense flavor, add dried oregano or red pepper flakes to the ground beef as it browns in the skillet, allowing the herbs to bloom in the residual fat.

If you find that your oven has hot spots, rotate the pan halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning of the crust. If the cherry tomatoes are particularly large, cut them into quarters rather than halves to ensure they cook down properly and release their juices into the cheese layer.

Always use a sharp serrated knife for slicing to ensure you cut through the crispy crust without crushing the delicate layers inside.

Variations

• Spicy Pepperoni: Add two teaspoons of crushed red pepper flakes to the ground beef while browning. You can also drizzle hot honey over the finished pizza just before serving for a sweet and spicy contrast that pairs perfectly with the melted cheese and salty pepperoni.
• Vegetable Medley: Incorporate sautéed bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms into the filling along with the beef. Ensure all vegetables are cooked and drained of excess moisture before layering to keep the crust crisp and prevent the pizza from becoming watery during the final bake.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 1 month.

Reheat

Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until the center is hot and the crust is crisp again.

Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container to maintain its texture. It is best to consume the pizza within three days of baking. When cooling the leftovers, ensure they stay at room temperature for no more than two hours before placing them in the refrigerator. This practice is essential for maintaining food safety and preventing the growth of harmful bacteria, keeping your meal fresh and safe for future enjoyment.

You can prepare the meat filling up to one day in advance and keep it refrigerated until you are ready to assemble the pizza. The dough can also be prepared or purchased ahead of time and kept chilled.

However, it is best to assemble and bake the pizza just before serving to ensure the crust remains crisp and the cheese maintains its optimal gooey texture and flavor, providing the best possible eating experience for your guests.

Serving ideas

Serve this pizza pie warm, directly from the pan, to showcase the impressive height and the dramatic cheese pull. It pairs excellently with a crisp, acidic side salad to balance the richness of the beef and melted cheese.

A simple vinaigrette dressing on the greens will provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty, savory nature of the pizza, making for a well-rounded and satisfying meal that is perfect for sharing with family or friends.

For a casual presentation, place the pizza on a wooden serving board to highlight its rustic appeal. You can provide extra toppings on the side, such as grated parmesan cheese or fresh basil leaves, to allow guests to customize their slices.

Ensure you have a sturdy server available to lift the dense, heavy slices onto plates, as the structure is significant due to the generous layers of ingredients packed within the deep-dish crust.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Deep-Dish Cheesy Beef Pizza Pie for Ultimate Comfort

Prep 20 minCook 45 minRest 10 minTotal 1 h 15 minServes 8

Ingredients

• 1 lb store-bought or made ahead pizza dough
• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) to confirm it is safe to eat.
2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Press the pizza dough into the bottom and up the sides of a greased 10-inch deep-dish springform pan. Spread the cooked ground beef evenly over the base. Top the beef with a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese, followed by the pepperoni slices and halved cherry tomatoes.
3. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and slightly charred in spots. Remove the pizza from the oven and allow it to rest for 10 minutes before releasing the springform ring and slicing.

Contains: gluten, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

450

Protein

22.5 g

Carbohydrates

35 g

Fat

24 g

Fiber

2 g

Sugar

3 g

Sodium

850 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.