Pepper Jack Smashburger Stuffed Pizza Bites

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a muffin tin.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned. Next, add in the onions, bell peppers, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the vegetables soften.
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded pepper jack cheese until it’s melted.
Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface and cut it into small squares.
Spoon a portion of the beef mixture onto each square of dough, then fold the corners up and over the filling to create a ball.
Place each ball into the greased muffin tin.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the dough is golden brown.
After baking, remove the pizza bites from the oven and brush the tops with pizza sauce, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and parsley.
Serve hot and savor your delicious Pepper Jack Smashburger Stuffed Pizza Bites!

Best ways to enjoy it

These pizza bites are a versatile dish that can be served in various creative ways. Consider plating them on a colorful platter with a side of extra pizza sauce for dipping. You can also pair them with a fresh salad for a balanced meal or serve them alongside some crunchy veggies and dip. For an appetizer or a party snack, these bites are sure to be a hit!

How to store

To keep your leftover Pepper Jack Smashburger Stuffed Pizza Bites fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to enjoy them later, these bites freeze well. Just place them in a freezer-safe container and they can last for up to three months. When reheating, ensure they’re heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F.

Helpful cooking tips

Don’t overstuff the dough: Too much filling can cause the dough to burst while baking. Stick to about a tablespoon of filling for each bite.
Experiment with cheese: If you’re not a fan of pepper jack, other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar could make great substitutes while still delivering that delicious gooiness.
Make it a family affair: Get kids involved by letting them help roll the dough or assemble the bites. It’s a fun way to encourage culinary creativity!

Creative twists

While the original recipe is fantastic, here are a few creative variations you can try:

Buffalo Chicken Style: Substitute the beef with shredded buffalo chicken and cream cheese for a spicy twist.
Veggie Delight: Use black beans, corn, and cheese for a vegetarian version that satisfies.
Mini Calzone: Instead of a round ball, shape the dough into mini calzones with the same filling, folding the dough over to create a sealed pocket.

FAQs

What is the prep time for this recipe?

Preparation for these Pepper Jack Smashburger Stuffed Pizza Bites takes about 15 minutes, and the baking process adds another 15-20 minutes. Overall, you can have them on the table in under an hour!

Can I make them ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the bites in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Are there any dietary substitutions I can make?

Yes! For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pizza dough. You can also substitute the ground beef with turkey, chicken, or a meat alternative to fit your dietary needs.