Cheesy Beef Bomb Slice

This cheesy beef pizza masterpiece combines the comfort of a traditional pizza with the satisfaction of a hearty beef-filled meal. The combination of two cheeses creates an irresistible pull when you take that first slice, while the seasoned ground beef adds a savory depth that elevates this beyond your average pizza.

I created this recipe during a particularly hectic week when I needed something that would please everyone at the table without requiring hours in the kitchen. It has since become our Friday night tradition, with my family gathering around as we pull slices with that perfect cheese stretch.

Ingredients

• Pizza dough: Fresh homemade dough creates the best flavor base, but quality store-bought works great for busy nights
• Ground beef: Use 80/20 for the perfect balance of flavor and texture
• Pizza sauce: Look for one with minimal ingredients for the freshest taste
• Garlic powder: Adds depth to the beef without overwhelming the other flavors
• Salt and pepper: Essential for properly seasoning the beef
• Mozzarella cheese: Creates that classic stretchy pizza texture, freshly shredded melts better than pre-packaged
• Cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the beef perfectly

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Beef:

Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic powder, salt, and pepper while cooking. The proper seasoning at this stage creates the foundation of flavor for the entire pizza. Drain any excess fat to prevent a soggy crust.

Prepare the Base:

Preheat your oven to 425°F and roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured baking sheet or pizza stone. For the crispiest bottom, pre-bake the crust for 3-5 minutes before adding toppings if using homemade dough.

Layer the Toppings:

Spread the pizza sauce in an even layer leaving a half-inch border for the crust. Distribute the cooked beef evenly across the sauce, making sure every bite will contain some of that savory flavor. The beef should be scattered in small chunks rather than large clumps for the best eating experience.

Add the Cheese:

First sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the beef, then layer the mozzarella on top. This order allows the cheddar to melt into the beef while the mozzarella creates that beautiful golden top layer. Be generous with the cheese for the ultimate cheese-pull experience.

Bake to Perfection:

Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Look for a golden brown crust and bubbly, slightly browned cheese. Allow the pizza to rest for 2-3 minutes before slicing to let the cheese set slightly.

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The secret to this pizza's incredible flavor is actually in the order of cheese layering. I discovered by accident that putting the cheddar under the mozzarella creates a more complex flavor profile as the cheddar melts directly into the beef, creating little pockets of sharp, tangy goodness that contrast beautifully with the creamy mozzarella on top.

Make-Ahead Options

This pizza is perfect for meal prep. You can brown the beef up to two days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Alternatively, assemble the entire pizza, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. When ready to eat, simply bake from frozen adding an extra 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.

Creative Variations

While this beef bomb pizza is delicious as written, consider adding thinly sliced red onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to incorporate vegetables. For a spicy kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the top before baking or mix some Italian sausage with the ground beef. You can also finish with fresh herbs like basil or oregano after baking for a burst of freshness.

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Serving Suggestions

This hearty pizza pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a complete meal, consider adding garlic bread on the side or starting with a light soup. A cold beer or medium-bodied red wine makes the perfect beverage pairing for adults.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use pre-cooked beef for this dish?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked beef, but add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor before assembling the pizza.

→ What’s the best cheese combination for this?

A mix of shredded mozzarella and sharp cheddar works best, providing the perfect blend of creaminess and tang.

→ Can I use homemade pizza dough?

Absolutely! Homemade dough adds a personal touch and pairs wonderfully with the cheesy, beefy toppings.

→ What baking temperature works best?

Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes to achieve a golden crust and melted cheese.

→ How can I make the slice spicier?

Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the pizza sauce or as a topping before baking.