As one of the largest pizza chains in the world, Pizza Hut has been serving up delicious pies for over 60 years. With a huge variety of toppings to choose from, one of their most popular meat additions is the savory ground beef topping. Let’s explore the origins, ingredients, and prep tips for this tasty pizza ingredient.
A Brief History of Pizza Hut’s Beef Topping
While Pizza Hut was founded in 1958 in Wichita, Kansas by brothers Dan and Frank Carney, the beef topping wasn’t added to the menu until later years. In fact, ground beef wasn’t even a common pizza topping until the 1980s and 90s when recipes were being reinvented with new ingredients.
During this time, Pizza Hut began experimenting with more meat choices beyond just pepperoni and sausage. Focus groups showed positive reactions to ground beef as a heartier topping option. By the mid-90s the beef topping had become a signature menu item especially on Meat Lover’s pizzas.
Over the next few decades, Pizza Hut expanded exponentially, becoming the largest pizza chain worldwide. The recognizable red roof and pan pizzas were symbols of the brand. With thousands of locations globally, Pizza Hut brought pizza lovers expanded menu choices like the beef topping.
The Ingredients Behind the Beefy Goodness
So what makes the Pizza Hut beef topping taste so good? The ingredients are surprisingly easy to find. Here they are:
- 96% lean ground beef
- Egg substitute
- Dry bread crumbs
- Salt
By using very lean beef, the topping stays tasty and moist after it’s cooked without getting too greasy. Without the egg, the ingredients on top of the pizza don’t stick together as well. Breadcrumbs add texture and absorb excess moisture. Finally, salt seasons the beef, amplifying the savory umami taste.
How the Topping is Prepared
Prepping the beef topping takes just a few easy steps:
- Combine the ground beef, egg substitute, bread crumbs, and salt in a bowl.
- Use a fork to gently mix everything together until well blended.
- For immediate use, crumble the beef mixture directly onto the pizza.
- For later use, roll the mixture into 1⁄4 teaspoon balls and place them in a single layer on wax paper lined in an airtight container. Store refrigerated for up to 3 days.
That’s it! The topping can be made ahead of time to save time or can be mixed on the spot. When added to the pizza, the small beef crumbles cook just right, getting slightly crispy on the edges while staying soft and juicy on the inside.
Tips for Ordering It on Your Pizza
The beef topping pairs well with other ingredients and can be added to just about any type of Pizza Hut pizza. Here are some serving suggestions
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On a Meat Lover’s pizza, the beef blends nicely with flavors like Italian sausage, bacon, ham, and pepperoni.
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For a cheeseburger pizza twist, add pickles, mustard, and cheddar cheese.
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On a BBQ chicken pizza, the beef offers a nice contrasting texture and heartiness.
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For a supreme pizza, the ground beef enhances other toppings like mushrooms, onions, green peppers, and black olives.
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On a Hawaiian pizza, complement the sweet pineapple and salty ham with savory crumbled beef.
No matter what ingredients you choose, the beef can be scattered evenly over the whole pie or clustered on just parts of the pizza for more customized flavor in each bite. Feel free to sprinkle it liberally in your pizza crust pockets too!
Nutritional Benefits of Choosing Beef
While often thought of as an indulgent food, the Pizza Hut beef topping provides some healthy advantages. Firstly, using 96% lean ground beef eliminates much of the saturated fat found in regular ground beef. With just 4% fat content, a serving contains only 1 gram of saturated fat.
Beef is also an excellent source of protein and nutrients. Just a 1⁄4 cup serving of crumbles provides 19 grams of protein. The minerals iron, zinc, and selenium found in beef support red blood cell production, immune function, metabolism, and antioxidant activity in the body.
Lastly, the beef adds savory umami flavor. This satisfying taste can curb cravings for sweet or salty foods. The extra protein and fiber in the beef topping helps you feel full faster too.
So, while it’s still an indulgence, the beef can be part of a balanced pizza meal when ordered with veggie toppings and sensible portions.
Tips for Making It at Home
Want to recreate the Pizza Hut beef topping in your own kitchen? Here are some helpful hints:
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For best results, use 96% or 90% lean ground beef. Higher fat varieties will cause greasiness.
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If preferred, the egg substitute can be replaced with 1 egg white or 1⁄4 cup egg beaters.
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Instead of dry breadcrumbs, try crushed crackers, oats, or panko for different textures.
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Add desired seasonings like garlic powder, Italian herbs, pepper, or chili powder.
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Shape the raw topping into a log, refrigerate or freeze, then slice off disks to top pizzas for fast prep later.
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Partially pre-cook the crumbles before using to help rendered fat and expedite baking time.
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Scatter crumbles over the pizza a few minutes before done so the beef doesn’t overcook and dry out.
However you choose to use it, the Pizza Hut inspired beef topping can upgrade your homemade pizzas to restaurant quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about Pizza Hut’s beloved beef topping:
What cut of beef is used?
Pizza Hut uses 96% lean ground beef which likely comes from round or sirloin cuts. These are leaner cuts that work well.
Is the beef pre-cooked?
No, the raw ground beef crumbles are placed directly onto the unset pizza to be cooked through during baking.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
For food safety, reheat fully in a 350 degree oven or to 165 degrees internally. Microwaving may result in uneven hot spots.
Can I use regular 80/20 ground beef?
You can, but the higher fat content may cause greasiness, shrinkage, and a less crispy texture when cooked.
Is the beef topping spicy?
It has just a touch of salt and no added spices, so it has a subtle, mildly beefy flavor. Add your own seasonings to give it a kick!
Can I use other meats like turkey or chicken?
Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives, though leaner than beef so adjust binding and seasoning accordingly.
How long does it last refrigerated?
The cooked crumbles will stay fresh 3-4 days. Raw beef mixture should be used within 1-2 days for food safety.
Satisfy Your Pizza Craving
Pizza Hut’s popular beef topping has become a staple ingredient for good reason. Its hearty, savory flavor and versatility on different pizza styles makes it a go-to choice for customizing your perfect pie. While a tasty treat, it can also be a nutritious addition when using lean beef and loading up the veggie toppings.
The next time you’re browsing the Pizza Hut menu for the ideal meal, consider adding the beef topping to switch up your pizza experience. Or put your own spin on this craveable recipe to bring some pizza parlour goodness into your own kitchen creations.
