Meat Lover Beef Pizza

The smell of pepperoni hitting hot cheese still takes me back to Friday nights at my friend Marco's house, where his dad would toss pizza dough like he was conducting a symphony. I've been chasing that perfect meat-loaded slice ever since, through countless experiments with meat combinations and dough techniques.

Last winter during a snowstorm, I made this for my neighbors who were stuck without power. We ate it by candlelight with whatever beer was in the fridge, and somehow that pizza tasted better than anything I've ever made in a perfect kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 lb pizza dough: Store-bought works perfectly fine, but let it come to room temperature for easier stretching
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce: Don't overload it or the crust will get soggy in the middle
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella: Low-moisture cheese melts better without making the pizza watery
• 1/2 cup cooked ground beef: Season it generously before cooking since it's a topping, not the main event
• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni: Arrange them close together because they shrink and curl up beautifully
• 1/3 cup cooked Italian sausage: Remove from casing and crumble into small chunks for even distribution
• 1/4 cup chopped bacon: Cook until crispy first because soft bacon on pizza is disappointing
• 1/4 cup sliced ham: Cut into strips rather than cubes for better coverage
• 1/4 cup sliced red onions: Raw onions add a sharp contrast to all the rich meats
• 1/4 cup sliced bell peppers: Red peppers look gorgeous against the browned meat and cheese
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano: The classic pizza herb that ties everything together
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes: Just enough heat to cut through all that cheese

Instructions

Get your oven screaming hot:

Preheat to 475°F with your pizza stone or baking sheet inside, because a cold surface equals sad, limp crust.

Stretch the dough:

Roll it on a floured surface into a 12-inch round, then transfer to parchment paper so you can slide it easily onto the hot stone.

Layer the foundation:

Spread sauce within a half-inch border, then cover completely with mozzarella because every bite needs that cheese base.

Pile on the meats:

Distribute everything evenly so each slice gets the full meat experience, then add vegetables if you're feeling virtuous.

Season the top:

Sprinkle oregano, red pepper flakes, and black pepper like you're finishing a masterpiece.

Bake to perfection:

Slide the pizza onto your preheated surface and bake 12-15 minutes until cheese bubbles and browns in spots.

Let it rest briefly:

Wait 2-3 minutes before slicing or the cheese will slide right off with your first cut.

Save

My brother-in-law took one bite of this version last Thanksgiving and declared it his new pizza benchmark. He's since requested it for every family gathering, and I've learned to double the recipe because the first one disappears fast.

Getting the Crust Right

I've learned that stretching dough too thin makes it tear, but too thick and it's just bread. The sweet spot is about an eighth of an inch thick at the edges, slightly thinner in the middle where the toppings weigh it down.

Meat Prep Secrets

Cook all your meats beforehand and let them cool slightly. Hot toppings can make the dough sweat, resulting in that dreaded soggy middle layer that ruins an otherwise perfect slice.

Serving Like a Pro

A little garlic oil drizzled over the hot pizza right after baking adds that professional touch. And always serve with something crisp on the side to balance all that rich cheese and meat.

• A cold beer or full-bodied red wine cuts through the richness beautifully
• Side salads shouldn't be optional with this much meat and cheese
• Leftovers reheat surprisingly well in a skillet rather than the microwave

Save

There's something deeply satisfying about pulling a bubbling meat-loaded pizza from the oven and watching everyone reach for that first slice. This recipe has become my go-to for feeding hungry crowds who need more than just dinner—they need an experience.

Recipe FAQs

→ What meats are included in this pizza?

It features ground beef, pepperoni, Italian sausage, bacon, and sliced ham for a robust mix of flavors.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, optional toppings include sliced red onions and bell peppers to add a fresh contrast.

→ What baking temperature is recommended?

Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C) to achieve a crispy crust and bubbly cheese.

→ How long should it bake?

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the crust turns golden and the cheese melts beautifully.

→ Are there suggestions for seasoning enhancements?

Sprinkling oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and freshly ground black pepper adds depth and gentle heat.

→ What tools are useful for preparation?

A rolling pin, pizza stone or baking sheet, parchment paper, and a slicer will streamline the process.