Cheesy Beef Braid is a delightful recipe that brings together rich, savory flavors in a fun and visually appealing way. This dish features seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and pizza sauce, all wrapped in a golden, flaky bread braid. Perfect for family dinners, game days, or casual gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table. Whether you are an experienced cook or a beginner looking to try something new, Cheesy Beef Braid is easy to make and utterly delicious.
Why make this recipe
Making Cheesy Beef Braid is a fantastic choice for several reasons. First, it’s a complete meal in one dish. The combination of protein from the ground beef, the richness of the cheese, and the carbs from the pizza dough makes it satisfying. Second, it is incredibly versatile. You can customize the fillings to suit your preferences, from adding vegetables to using different cheeses. Third, it is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and reheat it, saving time on busy nights. Lastly, this dish is fun to serve. Its braided presentation makes it look special, and it’s something everyone will enjoy sharing.
How to make Cheesy Beef Braid
Preparing Cheesy Beef Braid is straightforward. It requires simple ingredients and minimal preparation, making it suitable for any cook. Follow these steps to create a masterpiece that everyone will love!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450 grams) lean ground beef
- 1 teaspoon (1 gram) dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon (3 grams) garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon (6 grams) kosher salt
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) pizza sauce, divided
- 1 pound (450 grams) refrigerated pizza dough
- 4 ounces (115 grams) provolone cheese, sliced
- 3 ounces (85 grams) thin sliced pepperoni
- 1 cup (120 grams) mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons (20 grams) Parmesan cheese, grated
Directions:
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Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, dried oregano, garlic powder, and kosher salt. Break up the beef with a spatula and cook until there is no pink visible and the meat is caramelized. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
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Allow the beef mixture to cool for a few minutes, then stir in one-third cup of pizza sauce for flavor and moisture.
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, lay out the refrigerated pizza dough on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Spoon half a cup of pizza sauce down the center of the dough. Layer on the slices of provolone cheese, followed by the pepperoni, the seasoned ground beef, and the shredded mozzarella cheese.
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Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut diagonal strips along the sides of the dough, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide, toward the center.
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Gently lift the strips of dough and alternate folding them over the filling, creating a braid-like effect. Start from one side, fold over, and then do the same on the other side, repeating until the filling is covered.
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In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the grated Parmesan cheese and the remaining dried oregano. Brush this mixture over the braided dough to add flavor and shine.
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Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Allow the Cheesy Beef Braid to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.
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While it cools, heat some extra pizza sauce in a small saucepan to serve alongside the braid.
How to serve Cheesy Beef Braid
Serving Cheesy Beef Braid is a delightful experience. Cut the braid into generous slices and present it on a large platter. Serve it warm with the extra pizza sauce on the side for dipping. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or some sautéed vegetables, adding color and crunch to the meal. You can also enhance your presentation with fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, sprinkled on top.
How to store Cheesy Beef Braid
If you have leftovers, storing Cheesy Beef Braid is simple. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices or the whole braid. Wrap it well in aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and re-bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Tips to make Cheesy Beef Braid
Here are some handy tips for making the best Cheesy Beef Braid:
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Use fresh ingredients: Freshly grated cheese and homemade or high-quality pizza sauce can elevate the flavor significantly.
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Add vegetables: Incorporate ingredients like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms into the beef mixture for additional flavor and nutrition.
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Different meats: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
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Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices in your beef mixture to customize flavors to your liking.
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Dough alternatives: If you want to make it healthier, try using whole wheat pizza dough or a gluten-free dough.
Variation (if any)
Cheesy Beef Braid is very adaptable. You can easily change the ingredients based on what you have at home or your taste preferences. For a vegetarian version, consider replacing the beef with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and cheese for a delicious alternative. You can also switch cheeses, using cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. Adding spices such as crushed red pepper flakes can add a little heat.
FAQs
Can I make Cheesy Beef Braid ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and braid it ahead of time. Store it in the fridge until you are ready to bake.
Can I freeze Cheesy Beef Braid?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Ensure it is wrapped tightly, and reheat from frozen.
What should I serve with Cheesy Beef Braid?
It pairs well with a simple salad, garlic bread, or a side of fresh vegetables and dip.
Can I use homemade pizza dough?
Yes, homemade pizza dough works great and can add extra flavor to your braid.
How long does it take to bake Cheesy Beef Braid?
Bake for about 25-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C) or until the dough is golden brown.
Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of a braid)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Making Cheesy Beef Braid is a fun and rewarding cooking project that results in a delicious centerpiece for any table. With its cheesy, savory filling wrapped in flaky dough, it promises to be a hit at your next meal. Enjoy your cooking and the wonderful flavors of this tasty braid!