Meat-Za Pie

Meat-Za Pie: Beef and Mushroom Recipe with Cheddar and Parmesan Cheese

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Meat-Za Pie is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of a classic meatloaf with the convenience of a pie. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. With layers of ground beef, cheese, and mushrooms, this dish is sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.

History

Meat-Za Pie is a modern twist on the traditional meatloaf recipe. By adding a pie crust and some extra toppings, this dish takes on a whole new level of flavor and texture. While the exact origins of this recipe are unknown, it has become a popular choice for those looking for a comforting and filling meal.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) ground beef
0.67 cup evaporated milk
0.5 cup breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic salt
0.33 cup tomato paste
1 can mushrooms
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
0.25 tsp oregano
2 tbsp parmesan cheese

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, milk, bread crumbs, and garlic until well incorporated.
Spread the mixture into a 9" pie pan.
Spread tomato paste evenly over the meat.
Arrange mushrooms on top of the mixture.
Sprinkle with cheeses and oregano.
Bake for 25 minutes.

Variations

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef for a lighter version.
Add diced bell peppers, onions, or jalapenos for extra flavor and texture.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to evenly spread the meat mixture in the pie pan to ensure even cooking.

- Feel free to customize the toppings to suit your taste preferences. You can add bell peppers, onions, or any other vegetables you like.

- For a crispy crust, brush the pie crust with an egg wash before baking.

- Let the Meat-Za Pie rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Meat-Za Pie with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also pair it with a side of garlic bread or roasted potatoes for a more filling option.

Cooking Techniques

Make sure to cook the ground beef thoroughly before assembling the pie to ensure food safety.

- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pie to ensure it is fully cooked.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use almond milk or coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative to evaporated milk.

- Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for regular breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Meat-Za Pie can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply cover the pie with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Meat-Za Pie with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for a pop of color and flavor. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top for a spicy kick.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Meat-Za Pie with a glass of red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, for a classic combination. You can also serve it with a cold beer or a refreshing glass of iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Meat-Za Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

350

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 15g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 4g

Fats

- Total Fat: 22g

- Saturated Fat: 10g

- Trans Fat: 1g

Proteins

- Protein: 28g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15% DV

- Vitamin C: 8% DV

- Calcium: 20% DV

- Iron: 15% DV

Alergens

Contains dairy (milk, cheese)

- Contains wheat (breadcrumbs)

Summary

Meat-Za Pie is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. While it is relatively high in calories and fat, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a well-rounded diet.

Summary

Meat-Za Pie is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. With layers of ground beef, cheese, and mushrooms, this pie is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you serve it for dinner or as a party appetizer, this recipe is sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of wonder. It was a sunny afternoon, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I turned the yellowed pages, my eyes landed on a recipe for something called Meat-Za Pie. Intrigued by the name, I read through the ingredients and instructions, my mouth already watering at the thought of tasting this mysterious dish.

As I read the recipe, memories flooded back to me of all the different recipes I had learned over the years. From my mother's hearty beef stew to my aunt's famous apple pie, I had always been drawn to the art of cooking. Each recipe held a story within it, a piece of someone's history that they had passed down to me with love.

I remembered the first time I had ever cooked a meal on my own. I was just a young girl, standing on a stool in my mother's kitchen, carefully measuring out ingredients for a batch of chocolate chip cookies. As the smell of freshly baked cookies filled the air, I knew that I had found my passion in life.

Years passed, and I continued to experiment with new recipes and techniques, always eager to learn more about the art of cooking. I took cooking classes, watched cooking shows, and even traveled to different countries to learn about their traditional dishes. Each new recipe I learned felt like a piece of a puzzle, slowly coming together to create a beautiful tapestry of flavors and memories.

And now, as I looked at the recipe for Meat-Za Pie, I knew that I had to try it for myself. The combination of savory ground beef, gooey cheese, and tangy tomato sauce sounded like a match made in culinary heaven. I gathered the ingredients from my pantry and got to work, following the instructions with care and precision.

As the Meat-Za Pie baked in the oven, the aroma that filled my kitchen was intoxicating. The crust turned a golden brown, the cheese bubbled and melted, and I knew that I had created something truly special. When I finally took a bite of the finished dish, I was transported back to my childhood, to all the meals shared with loved ones and the joy that food had brought into my life.

I knew that this recipe for Meat-Za Pie would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire, a dish that I would make for family gatherings, special occasions, and lazy Sunday afternoons. And as I sat down to enjoy my first taste of Meat-Za Pie, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for all the people who had taught me the art of cooking, from my grandmother to the authors of old cookbooks.

As I finished my meal, I made a promise to myself to continue learning and experimenting with new recipes, to pass down my knowledge to future generations, and to always cook with love and passion. The recipe for Meat-Za Pie had not only filled my stomach but also my heart, reminding me of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.

And so, as the sun set outside my window, I cleared the dishes from the table and began to plan my next culinary adventure. Who knew what new recipes and stories awaited me in the pages of old cookbooks and the kitchens of my loved ones? The journey of a cook is never-ending, but it is a journey filled with joy, flavor, and love. And I, for one, could not wait to see where it would take me next.