Bacon-Cheeseburger Pizza

Bacon-Cheeseburger Pizza Recipe - Delicious American Classic

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

The Bacon-Cheeseburger Pizza combines the hearty, savory flavors of a classic American cheeseburger with the universally loved base of a crispy, golden pizza. This innovative recipe brings together the best of both worlds, offering a unique twist on traditional pizza. It's perfect for those who love to experiment with their food and enjoy the fusion of different culinary traditions. Whether you're hosting a game day gathering, family dinner, or simply craving something deliciously different, this Bacon-Cheeseburger Pizza is sure to satisfy.

History

The concept of combining the elements of a cheeseburger with pizza is a relatively modern culinary innovation, reflecting the growing trend of fusion cuisine. The idea likely originated in the United States, where both cheeseburgers and pizzas are staple foods. Over the years, various versions of the Bacon-Cheeseburger Pizza have emerged in restaurants and home kitchens alike, each adding its own twist to this delightful hybrid. This particular recipe has been refined to capture the essence of a bacon cheeseburger while maintaining the integrity and simplicity of a homemade pizza.

Ingredients

2.75 to 3.25 cups of all-purpose flour
1 package of active dry yeast
0.25 tsp of salt
1 cup of warm water (120°F (49°C) to 130°F)
2 tbsp of cooking oil
0.75 cup of chopped onion
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tbsp of olive oil, margarine, or butter
1 can (14.5 oz (411 g)) of tomatoes, cut up
1 can (8 oz (227 g)) of tomato sauce
1 bay leaf
1 tbsp of snipped fresh basil or 1 tsp of dried basil, crushed
1 tbsp of snipped fresh oregano or 1 tsp of dried oregano, crushed
1 tsp of crushed fennel seed (optional)
0.5 tsp of sugar
0.25 tsp of pepper
1 lb (454 g) of ground beef
1 cup of chopped onion
2 medium tomatoes, very thinly sliced
6 slices of bacon, cut into 2-inch pieces, crisp-cooked, and drained
3 cups of shredded cheddar, American, or Cojack cheese (12 oz (340 g))

How to prepare

Pizza sauce

Cook 0.75 cup of chopped onion and garlic in 1 tbsp of oil.
Stir in tomatoes, tomato sauce, bay leaf, basil, oregano, fennel seed (if desired), sugar, and pepper.
Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 35 to 40 minutes or until desired consistency is reached, stirring occasionally. Discard bay leaf.

Pizza dough

Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine 1.25 cups of flour, yeast, and salt.
Add warm water and 2 tbsp of oil.
Beat with an electric mixer on low speed for 30 seconds, scraping the bowl constantly.
Beat on high speed for 3 minutes.
Using a spoon, stir in as much of the remaining flour as you can.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
Knead in enough remaining flour to make a moderately stiff dough that is smooth and elastic (6 to 8 minutes total).
Divide the dough in half. Cover and let it rest for 10 minutes.

Pizza

Grease two 11- to 13-inch pizza pans or baking sheets.
On a lightly floured surface, roll each half of the dough into a circle 1 inch larger than the pizza pan.
Transfer the dough to the pans and build up the edges slightly. Prick generously with a fork. Do not let it rise.
Bake in a 425°F (218°C) oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned.
Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook ground beef and 1 cup of chopped onion until the meat is browned and the onion is tender. Drain the fat.
Spread pizza sauce over the hot crusts.
Sprinkle with the ground beef mixture.
Top with tomato slices and bacon pieces.
Sprinkle with cheese.
Bake for about 12 minutes more or until the cheese melts and the sauce is bubbly.

Variations

1. Turkey Bacon-Cheeseburger Pizza: Substitute turkey bacon and ground turkey for a lighter version.
2. BBQ Bacon-Cheeseburger Pizza: Use BBQ sauce instead of tomato sauce for a smoky flavor.
3. Veggie Bacon-Cheeseburger Pizza: Replace the meat with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and veggie bacon for a vegetarian option.

References

↑ If desired, substitute one 15 oz (425 g) can or 15.5 oz jar pizza sauce for the homemade sauce.
↑ Make-ahead tip: Prepare pizza sauce; cool. Transfer to freezer container. Seal, label, and freeze up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before using.
↑ Make-ahead tip: Prepare pizza dough; divide into 2 equal portions. Place in plastic freezer bags. Seal, label, and freeze up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before using.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

1. For a crispier crust, pre-bake the pizza dough before adding toppings.

2. To enhance the flavor of the meat, season the ground beef with a bit of Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder while cooking.

3. Drain the tomatoes and cooked ground beef well to prevent the pizza from becoming soggy.

4. For an extra crispy bacon topping, bake the bacon pieces in the oven until just shy of your desired crispness before adding them to the pizza; they will continue to crisp up in the oven.

5. Use a blend of cheeses, such as cheddar for sharpness and mozzarella for meltiness, to mimic the cheeseburger experience.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Bacon-Cheeseburger Pizza with a side of mixed greens dressed with a light vinaigrette to add a fresh, crisp contrast to the meal. For a complete dining experience, consider a light dessert, such as fruit sorbet or a slice of angel food cake.

Cooking Techniques

For the best results, use a pizza stone preheated in the oven to bake your pizza. This will help achieve a crispy crust. Additionally, cooking the ground beef until it's just browned ensures it remains juicy and flavorful after baking on the pizza.

Ingredient Substitutions

1. Gluten-Free Flour: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.

2. Dairy-Free Cheese: Use dairy-free cheese to accommodate lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

3. Fresh Tomatoes and Herbs: If canned tomatoes and dried herbs are unavailable, fresh chopped tomatoes and herbs can be used in the sauce for a fresher flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

The pizza dough and sauce can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble and bake the pizza when ready to serve for a quick and easy meal.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the baked pizza with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra pop of color and flavor. Serving the pizza on a wooden board adds a rustic touch to the presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this hearty pizza with a light, crisp beer such as a pilsner or a refreshing lager to balance the richness of the toppings. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lime complements the flavors well.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-10 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Bacon-Cheeseburger Pizza contains approximately 450-550 calories. The exact calorie count can vary based on the specific ingredients used and the serving size.

Carbohydrates

A single serving of Bacon-Cheeseburger Pizza contains approximately 35-45 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are the all-purpose flour used in the pizza dough and the sugars present in the tomato sauce and tomatoes. Opting for a whole wheat flour can increase the fiber content and slightly alter the carbohydrate profile for a healthier twist.

Fats

This pizza is relatively high in fats, with each serving providing around 20-30 grams of fat. The fats come from multiple sources, including the cheese, ground beef, and bacon. Using lean ground beef and reducing the amount of cheese or opting for low-fat cheese options can help lower the fat content without significantly compromising the taste.

Proteins

Each serving of Bacon-Cheeseburger Pizza is a good source of protein, offering approximately 25-35 grams. The protein in this dish comes from the ground beef, cheese, and bacon, making it a satisfying meal option that can help keep you full for longer periods.

Vitamins and minerals

This pizza provides a range of vitamins and minerals, particularly from the tomatoes and onions, which are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and several B vitamins. The cheese and beef also contribute calcium and iron, respectively, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritionally beneficial.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include gluten (from the all-purpose flour), dairy (from the cheese), and potentially soy (depending on the cooking oil used). Individuals with food allergies should modify the recipe accordingly or take necessary precautions.

Summary

The Bacon-Cheeseburger Pizza is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines the best of two beloved foods. While it is relatively high in fats and calories, it also offers a good amount of protein and essential nutrients. Making slight adjustments to the ingredients can help tailor the dish to meet specific dietary needs or preferences.

Summary

The Bacon-Cheeseburger Pizza is a creative and delicious fusion that brings together the comforting flavors of a cheeseburger with the classic appeal of pizza. With its rich toppings and robust flavors, it's a perfect dish for casual gatherings or a family dinner. By following the tips and variations provided, you can customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs, making it a versatile option for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a warm summer evening, and I had invited some friends over for a casual dinner. I wanted to make something different, something that would surprise and delight my guests. As I stood in my kitchen, surrounded by shelves of cookbooks and handwritten recipes, I felt inspired to create something new.

I remembered a conversation I had with an old friend who had recently returned from a trip to Italy. She had told me about a delicious pizza she had tried that was topped with bacon and cheeseburger toppings. It sounded like the perfect combination of flavors, and I knew I had to try making it myself.

I began by preparing the pizza dough from scratch, using a recipe that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As the dough rose and the kitchen filled with the warm, yeasty aroma, I set to work on the toppings.

I cooked some ground beef in a skillet until it was browned and seasoned it with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. I fried some bacon until it was crisp and crumbled it into small pieces. I grated some sharp cheddar cheese and sliced up some juicy tomatoes. I also chopped up some fresh lettuce and set it aside to use as a garnish.

Once the dough had risen, I rolled it out into a large circle and spread a generous layer of tomato sauce over the top. I sprinkled on the cooked ground beef, followed by the bacon and cheddar cheese. I popped the pizza into the oven and watched as the cheese melted and bubbled, filling the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma.

When the pizza was golden brown and bubbling, I took it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing it into wedges. I topped each slice with a handful of chopped lettuce and a few slices of fresh tomato. The finished pizza was a sight to behold - a beautiful medley of colors and flavors that promised to be a hit with my guests.

As my friends arrived and settled in at the table, I served them each a slice of the bacon-cheeseburger pizza. Their eyes lit up with delight as they took their first bite, savoring the rich, savory flavors of the meat and cheese. They praised me for my creativity and skill in combining two classic dishes into one delicious creation.

As we ate and chatted, I shared the story of how I had come up with the idea for the pizza, inspired by my friend's travels and my own love of experimenting in the kitchen. My friends marveled at my ingenuity and encouraged me to keep exploring new flavors and combinations.

From that day on, the bacon-cheeseburger pizza became a favorite in my repertoire, a dish that never failed to impress and delight. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and dinner parties, always receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe.

I was proud to have created a dish that brought joy and satisfaction to those I loved, and I knew that this recipe would be passed down through the generations, cherished and enjoyed by many more to come. And so, as I reminisce about that summer evening when I first discovered the magic of bacon-cheeseburger pizza, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary adventures that have enriched my life and brought me closer to friends and family. Cooking is not just about nourishing the body, but also about nourishing the soul, and I am grateful for the memories and connections that this recipe has brought me over the years.