Pin it I stumbled onto this recipe during a week when I'd sworn off bread but couldn't shake a pizza craving. Instead of suffering through another sad cauliflower crust, I pressed seasoned ground beef into a pan and baked it until the edges crisped. The kitchen smelled like a steakhouse collided with a pizzeria. When I pulled it out and piled on the cheese and pepperoni, I realized I'd accidentally made something better than the original.
The first time I served this to friends, they thought I'd lost my mind. One of them picked up a slice, took a cautious bite, and then went completely silent. Within minutes, the whole thing was gone and someone was already asking for the recipe. It became our go-to for game nights, especially after everyone admitted they felt better after eating it than they did after regular pizza.
Ingredients
- Lean ground beef: This is your crust, so go for something with a bit of fat (but not too much, or you'll be draining forever) and make sure it's fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- Egg: Acts like glue to hold the beef together while it bakes, so don't skip it or your base will crumble.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty backbone and helps the crust firm up beautifully in the oven.
- Garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil: These turn plain beef into something that actually tastes like pizza, so measure with love.
- Mozzarella cheese: The gooey, melty star of the show, use the good stuff and shred it yourself if you can.
- Pepperoni: Classic for a reason, but feel free to swap in whatever makes you happy.
- Pizza sauce: Look for one without added sugar if you're keeping it low carb, or make your own with crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning.
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep:
- Set your oven to 220°C (425°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This keeps cleanup easy and prevents sticking.
- Mix the Base:
- In a large bowl, combine the beef, egg, Parmesan, and all the spices until just blended. Overworking it will make the texture dense and tough, so mix gently.
- Shape the Crust:
- Dump the mixture onto your prepared sheet and pat it into a 30 cm round, about 1 cm thick. Build up a little edge to cradle your toppings.
- Bake the Base:
- Slide it into the oven for 12 to 15 minutes until it's browned and set. Pull it out and tip the pan to drain any excess fat.
- Add the Toppings:
- Spread your sauce evenly, sprinkle on the mozzarella, and arrange the pepperoni. Don't be shy with the cheese.
- Finish Baking:
- Bake for another 8 to 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and starting to brown in spots. Let it rest a few minutes before slicing so it holds together.
Pin it There's something deeply satisfying about cutting into this and hearing that slight crackle from the edges. It reminds me of the first time my kid grabbed a slice and said it tasted like a cheeseburger and pizza had a baby. I couldn't argue with that, and now it's a weekly request in our house.
Topping Ideas
I've tried this with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions, and every time it feels like a different meal. If you want to keep it simple, just cheese and sauce is honestly perfect. For a spicy kick, scatter some crushed red pepper flakes on top before the final bake.
Serving Suggestions
I usually serve this with a crisp green salad or roasted broccoli on the side. It balances out the richness and makes the whole meal feel complete. Leftovers (if there are any) reheat beautifully in a hot oven or even an air fryer.
Storage and Reheating
Wrap leftover slices in foil and store them in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, pop them in a 180°C (350°F) oven for about 10 minutes to crisp the base back up. Microwaving works in a pinch, but the texture won't be as good.
- You can freeze baked slices for up to a month, just thaw and reheat in the oven.
- If you're meal prepping, bake the base ahead and add toppings fresh when you're ready to eat.
- Always let the pizza cool completely before wrapping it, or you'll end up with soggy parchment.
Pin it This recipe turned pizza night from a guilty pleasure into something I actually feel good about making. I hope it becomes a favorite in your kitchen too.
Recipe FAQs
- → How is the beef base prepared to ensure it holds together?
The beef is mixed gently with egg, Parmesan, and seasonings to bind the ingredients without overworking, then shaped firmly before baking to create a stable crust.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor of the ground beef crust?
Dried oregano and basil are included to add aromatic depth alongside garlic and onion powders.
- → Can toppings be customized for different preferences?
Yes, toppings like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or sausage can be added, or pepperoni can be swapped for vegetarian options.
- → What oven temperature is best for baking the beef base?
Preheating the oven to 220°C (425°F) ensures the beef cooks quickly and forms a crisp crust.
- → How can excess fat be managed during cooking?
After the initial bake, carefully draining excess fat helps achieve a less greasy base while maintaining flavor.
- → Is this base suitable for low-carb dietary needs?
Yes, using ground beef instead of traditional dough offers a gluten-free, low-carb alternative without sacrificing texture.