Meat Filled Pizza
A savory meat-filled pizza with a crispy bread crust, topped with ground beef, vegetables, cheese, and olives, perfect for a hearty family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Roll out 1 loaf of bread dough to fit a lightly oiled jelly roll pan.
- Brown ground beef, onions, and mushrooms in a skillet.
- Drain excess fat from the cooked meat and vegetables.
- Spread the cooked meat mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough.
- Sprinkle with black olives, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Pour tomato sauce over the toppings.
- Roll out the second loaf of bread dough and place it over the filled base, pinching the edges to seal.
- Poke holes in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown, about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, try adding Italian herbs like oregano or basil to the meat mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, and use ricotta or mozzarella cheese if you don't have Parmesan on hand. Feel free to customize the toppings with your favorite vegetables or meats. For a crispier crust, pre-bake the dough for 5-10 minutes before adding the fillings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat-filled pizza hot, garnished with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a cozy night in, enjoy it with a glass of red wine or a refreshing Italian soda. This dish also makes for great game day snacks or a casual gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meat-filled pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain the crust's texture while warming the filling.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Filled Pizza contains roughly 93 calories, with 2g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 580mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the pizza dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pizza dough a day in advance. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to use, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling it out.
Can I freeze the meat-filled pizza?
Absolutely! After baking, allow the pizza to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.
What are some good toppings to add?
You can customize your meat-filled pizza with various toppings. Consider adding bell peppers, spinach, or even artichokes for extra flavor. For a spicy kick, try jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. This flexibility allows you to create a unique dish tailored to your taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).