When it comes to dinner and meal ideas, pizza is always a crowd - pleaser. But what if we take the classic pizza and give it a unique twist? Enter the cast iron skillet pizza with the flavors of a fully - loaded cheeseburger. This isn't your ordinary pizza; it combines the best of both worlds, offering a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Let's start with the crust. The cast iron skillet gives the pizza a crispy edge and a sturdy base. To make the crust, you'll need some basic ingredients. Begin with 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast, which is the key to making the dough rise. Dissolve it in 1 cup of warm water (about 110°F) along with 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This indicates that the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
Next, in a large bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups of all - purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Pour the yeast mixture into the flour and salt combination. Use a wooden spoon to stir until a shaggy dough forms. Then, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it doubles in size.
While the dough is rising, it's time to prepare the cheeseburger - inspired toppings. First, cook 1 pound of lean ground beef in a skillet over medium - high heat. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat. Add 1/4 cup of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of yellow mustard, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine the flavors. This mixture will serve as the 'pizza sauce' and bring that classic cheeseburger taste.
For the other toppings, you can get creative. Slice up some pickles, which are a staple on any cheeseburger. You can also dice up some red onions for a bit of crunch and a sharp flavor. Shred about 2 cups of cheddar cheese; cheddar is a classic choice for a cheeseburger and will melt beautifully on the pizza.
After the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 475°F. Grease a 10 - inch cast iron skillet with some olive oil. Punch the dough down and transfer it to the skillet. Press the dough out to cover the bottom and about 1/2 - inch up the sides of the skillet. Let the dough rest for about 10 minutes.
Now, it's time to assemble the pizza. Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly over the dough. Layer the pickles and red onions on top of the beef. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the toppings. You can also add a few lettuce leaves if you like, although they'll wilt a bit in the oven but still add a fresh element.
Place the cast iron skillet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 - 20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it as cooking times may vary depending on your oven.
Once the pizza is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to slice. The cast iron skillet retains heat well, so be careful when handling it. Serve the pizza hot, and watch as your family and friends dig in. Each bite will be a burst of the familiar and beloved flavors of a cheeseburger, but in a pizza form.
This cast iron skillet pizza with cheeseburger flavors is not only delicious but also a fun and unique addition to your dinner rotation. It's a great way to use up some common ingredients in your pantry and fridge and create a memorable meal. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this pizza is sure to be a hit. So, the next time you're looking for a new dinner and meal idea, give this cheeseburger - inspired cast iron skillet pizza a try.
You can also experiment with different variations. For example, you could add some bacon bits for an extra savory element. Or, if you prefer a spicier kick, you can sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top. The possibilities are endless, and you can customize the pizza to suit your taste preferences.
In conclusion, this cast iron skillet pizza brings together the best of two popular foods - pizza and cheeseburgers. It's a simple yet creative recipe that offers a delicious and satisfying meal. With its crispy crust, flavorful toppings, and the unique cooking method using a cast iron skillet, it's a dish that you'll want to make again and again. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and start cooking this amazing cheeseburger - flavored pizza today!