Pepperoni Meatzza
Try this Pepperoni Meatzza recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Pepperoni Meatzza recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- 1 pound ground beef sirloin (90% lean)
- 1/3 cup italian-seasoned bread crumbs (or gluten-free brea
- 1 large egg (lightly beaten)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce (i use plain canned tomatoes, but you can use your favorite jarred version)
- 4 ounces ( 1/2 of a large ball) fresh mozzarella sliced
- 14 or so slices pepperoni (i like applegate farm bran
- fresh basil chopped, for serving
- Carbohydrate 1.0383570828587 g
- Cholesterol 2.06250000088449 mg
- Fat 0.734353541872225 g
- Fiber 0.356383326505948 g
- Protein 1.10006625029856 g
- Saturated Fat 0.420238854319278 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (145g)
- Sodium 36.1561041819146 mg
- Sugar 0.681973756352752 g
- Trans Fat 0.0533033541708464 g
- Calories 14 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat the oven to 400° F.
- In a large bowl, use your hands to combine the beef, Parmesan, bread crumbs, garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and egg. Be careful not to overwork the mixture -- just lightly mix it together, or the meat will become too dense and the end result will be tough.
- Add the meat to a large 10- or 12-inch skillet or baking dish, pressing the mixture lightly with your fingers to cover the bottom like a pizza crust.
- Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the top of the meat crust, leaving a ½-inch border all around.
- Arrange the mozzarella slices on top, and then the pepperoni, and bake until the meat is cooked through and the cheese is melted, about 25 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Drain the grease and drippings, then transfer to a serving plate, top it with fresh basil, and cut into wedges as you would a pizza.
- Serve hot.
My Go-To Weeknight Dinner: Pepperoni Meatzza
Let's be honest, folks. Life as a working mom is a whirlwind. Between juggling deadlines at the office, school pick-ups, homework help, and trying to squeeze in a workout (or two…okay, maybe just one!), finding time to cook a delicious, satisfying dinner feels like winning the lottery. That's where this Pepperoni Meatzza recipe comes in. It's a lifesaver. It's quick, easy, and surprisingly impressive, even if I say so myself. My kids devour it, and it's even won over the picky palates of a few dinner guests.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Forget complicated techniques and long ingredient lists. This is all about taking familiar flavors – ground beef, mozzarella, pepperoni – and transforming them into something extraordinary. The “crust” is made of seasoned ground beef, giving it a hearty, meaty base. The addition of breadcrumbs helps bind it all together, while the garlic, oregano, and basil provide the perfect Italian touch. I use canned tomatoes for my sauce because they're always in my pantry, but feel free to use your favorite jarred sauce if you prefer. And of course, the star of the show? Melty, gooey mozzarella cheese and crispy pepperoni, completing the pizza perfection.
Why I Love This Recipe: It's not just about the taste; it's about the convenience. I can often prep most of it ahead of time – mixing the meat and seasoning while the kids are doing homework, for instance. Then, when it's time for dinner, it's simply a matter of assembling and baking. Thirty minutes later, dinner is served! It's also incredibly versatile. Want to add some mushrooms or peppers? Go for it! Feel like a different type of cheese? Absolutely! This recipe is your blank canvas to unleash your culinary creativity (or lack thereof, on busy weeknights!). It’s a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints, and makes me feel like a culinary superhero without spending hours in the kitchen.
Tips and Tricks for Success: Don't overwork the meat mixture; gently combine the ingredients to prevent it from becoming too tough. Press the meat firmly into the skillet to create a solid crust. If you like a crispier crust, broil the meatzza for the last few minutes of cooking. And remember, let it rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set before slicing. This prevents a messy, cheesy catastrophe!
Beyond the Weeknight: While this recipe shines on busy weeknights, it’s also perfect for casual gatherings. It's a fun, interactive meal that's great for family pizza nights or a relaxed get-together with friends. The best part? Everyone gets to customize their slice with their favorite toppings! Imagine the possibilities!
So, the next time you’re staring into the abyss of a busy weeknight and wondering what to make for dinner, remember this Pepperoni Meatzza. It's a simple recipe that yields big results, proving that delicious doesn't have to be difficult, especially when you're short on time and energy. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.
