Pizza By The Yard
A savory braided meat-filled pizza with fresh vegetables, cheese, and herbs, perfect for family dinners or gatherings, combining hearty flavors and colorful toppings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. lean ground beef ⓘ
- 1 (6 oz.) can tomato paste ⓘ
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese ⓘ
- 1/4 cup chopped green onion
- 1/4 cup chopped black olives ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon dry crushed oregano ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 2 cups rolled bread or dough ⓘ
- 2 sliced tomatoes
- 1 green pepper, cut in rings ⓘ
- 1/4 cup finely shredded cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Brown the lean ground beef in a skillet.
- Drain excess fat from the beef.
- Add tomato paste, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped green onion, chopped black olives, dried crushed oregano, and salt to the beef.
- Simmer the mixture for 8 to 10 minutes.
- Prepare the dough as directed (roll into a 14 x 16-inch rectangle).
- Lightly oil a large baking sheet and place the dough on it.
- Place the meat filling lengthwise down the center of the dough.
- Cover only the center third of the dough with the filling.
- Cut into the dough every 2 inches on each side of the filling.
- Cross the strips diagonally over the filling to create a braided look.
- Tuck in the ends of the strips.
- Let the assembled dough rise for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
- Top with sliced tomatoes, green pepper rings, and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese melts and toppings are heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some Italian herbs or using ground turkey as a leaner alternative to the beef. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with sautéed mushrooms or spinach. Ensure the dough is rolled out evenly for a consistent bake, and brush it lightly with olive oil before baking for a golden crust.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pizza By The Yard warm, cut into strips or squares for easy sharing. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or a side of marinara sauce for dipping. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Easy Lasagna Casserole or a hearty soup. This dish is perfect for gatherings and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Pizza By The Yard can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices, but the oven will help maintain the crispiness of the crust.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pizza By The Yard contains roughly 154 calories, with 7g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (88% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (65% of the Daily Value), and calcium (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 794mg per serving (35% 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 use store-bought dough instead of making my own?
Yes, using store-bought dough is a convenient option and can save time. Just ensure to follow the package instructions for rolling and baking, and adjust the baking time if necessary. This can simplify the recipe while still delivering delicious results.
What other toppings can I add to my Pizza By The Yard?
Feel free to customize your toppings! Additional options include pepperoni, bell peppers, or even pineapple for a sweet twist. You can also experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or feta for varied flavors. Get creative with your favorite ingredients to make it your own.
How do I know when the pizza is done baking?
The pizza is done when the crust is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also check the internal temperature with a food thermometer; it should read at least 165°F (74°C). Let it cool slightly before slicing for easier serving.
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).