pizza and pie, featuring layers of savory

### **Instructions for Pizza and Pie: Layers of Savory Goodness**

**Step 1: Prepare the Dough or Crust**
If you’re using store-bought pizza dough, roll it out on a floured surface to fit the size of your baking dish. You can use a round pizza pan or a deep-dish pie dish depending on your preference. For pie crust, press it into a pie pan, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides evenly. Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the dough or pie crust package (typically 375°F/190°C).

**Step 2: Cook the Filling**
In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 7-10 minutes). Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.

**Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings**
Once the vegetables have softened, stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer the mixture on low heat for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend and the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

**Step 4: Layer the Filling on the Dough**
Once the filling is ready, carefully spoon it onto the prepared pizza or pie crust. Spread it out evenly to cover the entire surface. If you’re using a pizza crust, you can fold up the edges slightly to create a thicker crust or keep it thin, depending on your preference.

**Step 5: Add the Cheese**
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese generously over the top of the filling. You can add as much or as little cheese as you like, but be sure to cover the filling completely for that irresistible cheesy pull when serving.

**Step 6: Bake the Pizza and Pie**
Place your layered pizza and pie in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you’re using a pie crust, check that the edges are also golden and crisp.

**Step 7: Garnish and Serve**
Once baked, remove the pizza and pie from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an added burst of freshness and color. Slice and serve your savory masterpiece!

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### **Why You’ll Love Pizza and Pie: Layers of Savory Goodness**

1. **A Perfect Combination of Flavors**: This recipe combines the best aspects of both pizza and pie, layering savory meats, vegetables, and cheeses with a flavorful tomato sauce that ties it all together. It’s a comforting, hearty dish that will satisfy everyone’s cravings.

2. **Customizable for Every Taste**: Whether you prefer a meat-lover’s version with extra sausage and bacon, a veggie-packed pie with loads of greens, or a combination of both, this dish is completely customizable. Add your favorite toppings and seasonings to make it your own.

3. **One Dish, Multiple Uses**: Pizza and pie come together in one dish, making it easy to prepare and serve. You can also make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a quick reheat later. It’s a perfect meal for busy families or meal prep.

4. **Kid-Friendly and Family-Approved**: The layers of cheesy goodness and familiar pizza flavors make this dish a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s great for serving at family gatherings, casual dinners, or even parties.

5. **Versatile for Any Occasion**: Whether you’re serving it as a hearty dinner, a crowd-pleasing party dish, or a cozy weekend meal, pizza and pie will fit the bill. It’s the perfect dish for both casual and more festive occasions.

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### **Customizations for Pizza and Pie: Layers of Savory Goodness**

Here are some ideas to personalize your pizza and pie:

– **Add a Crust Twist**: Try a stuffed crust by adding cheese into the dough, or top the pizza with a flaky, buttery puff pastry for a pie-like twist.
– **Meat Variations**: Substitute the ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or sausage. You can also add cooked bacon bits or pepperoni for an extra burst of flavor.
– **Vegetarian Version**: For a vegetarian take, replace the meat with a mix of roasted vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, and artichokes. You can also add some olives, spinach, or sundried tomatoes for extra flavor.
– **Spicy Version**: Add some heat by sprinkling in crushed red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or even a drizzle of hot sauce over the finished dish.

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### **Serving Suggestions for Pizza and Pie: Layers of Savory Goodness**

This dish is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal with a few tasty sides:

– **Simple Salad**: Pair your pizza and pie with a light side salad. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will complement the richness of the pizza and pie.
– **Garlic Bread**: Serve it with a side of garlic bread for an extra dose of comfort and flavor.
– **Roasted Veggies**: Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus would add a nice balance to the richness of the dish.
– **Coleslaw**: For a refreshing, crunchy side, a tangy coleslaw pairs wonderfully with the savory layers of this dish.

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### **Conclusion**

**Pizza and Pie: Layers of Savory Goodness** is a must-try dish for anyone who loves comfort food with a twist. With its combination of savory meats, tender vegetables, and gooey cheese, this dish is bound to satisfy your taste buds and become a new favorite. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, a party, or a casual get-together, this layered pizza-pie fusion is sure to impress and keep everyone coming back for more. Try it today and experience the delicious harmony of pizza and pie in one irresistible dish!