Pizza Pie, Kroger Style
A savory pizza pie with seasoned meat, melty mozzarella, and flavorful tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, evaporated milk, bread crumbs, salt, Italian herb seasonings, and pepper.
- Press the meat mixture evenly over the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie plate.
- Cut 1 1/2 slices of mozzarella cheese into 6 triangles; set aside.
- Shred or chop the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Combine the tomato paste, chopped green pepper, mushrooms, and shredded cheese in a bowl.
- Spread the mixture over the meat in the pie plate.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove from the oven.
- Top with the cheese triangles and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through.
- Allow 10 minutes for the pizza to set before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavors, consider adding garlic or onion powder to the meat mixture. If you don’t have evaporated milk, regular milk or cream can work as substitutes, but reduce the quantity slightly. For a lighter version, swap ground beef for turkey or chicken. This dish can also serve as a base for variations by incorporating different cheeses or vegetables, similar to Lasagna With A Twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pizza pie with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider pairing it with a light red wine to complement the flavors. It’s also a hit at parties, making it perfect for gatherings. For a twist, try serving it alongside Italian recipes to create a themed meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, use the microwave, but be aware that this may result in a softer crust. Ensure it’s heated evenly for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pizza Pie, Kroger Style contains roughly 400 calories, with 20g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2013mg per serving (88% 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 a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is traditional, you can experiment with provolone, cheddar, or even a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese you choose melts well to maintain the delicious texture of the dish.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with a mixture of lentils or finely chopped vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. You can also add more cheese and omit the meat altogether for a hearty, satisfying meal without the meat.
Can I freeze the pizza pie?
Yes, you can freeze the pizza pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
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).