Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie

Introduction

If you’re a pizza lover, then this Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie will undoubtedly become a favorite in your household. The rich, savory combination of mozzarella cheese, ground beef, Italian sausage, pepperoni, and marinara sauce all encased in a flaky pie crust creates the ultimate comfort food. I made this dish for a family gathering, and it was an immediate hit. The layers of meat, cheese, and zesty sauce offer that perfect pizza flavor, but with a twist—it’s served like a pie! Even the pickiest eaters couldn’t get enough of it, and I have a feeling this recipe will make regular appearances on our dinner table. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a hearty meal, this deep-dish pizza pie is sure to please.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 box Pillsbury ready-bake pie crust (comes with 2 rolled pie crusts)

For the Filling:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound Italian sausage (optional)
• 1 cup pepperoni slices
• 1 1/2 cups pizza sauce or marinara
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or provolone cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 3 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing on top crust)

Instructions

Prepare the Filling:

1. In a skillet, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until fully browned, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and set the meat mixture aside.
2. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Assemble the Pizza Pie:

1. Roll out one of the pie crusts and line the bottom of a deep-dish pie pan or a deep skillet. Make sure the crust covers the bottom and edges of the pan, leaving a little overhang.
2. Layer half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on the bottom of the pie crust.
3. Add a generous layer of the cooked ground beef, Italian sausage (if using), and pepperoni slices.
4. Pour the pizza sauce or marinara evenly over the meat and pepperoni. Sprinkle the mixture with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Top the sauce and meat with the remaining mozzarella cheese and another layer of pepperoni slices.
6. Roll out the second pie crust and carefully place it over the top of the filled pie. Pinch the edges of the crust together to seal the pie, and trim any excess dough.
7. Brush the top crust with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder for added flavor.

Bake the Pizza Pie:

1. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.
2. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your delicious Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6-8 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 450 calories
Total Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 23g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

How to Serve

This Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie is a filling and hearty meal that can be served in various ways:

• As a Main Dish: Serve it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the pie.
• For Game Day: Slice it into smaller portions for easy finger foods at parties or gatherings.
• Pair with Garlic Bread: If you’re craving more carbs, serve it with crispy garlic bread for the ultimate indulgence.
• As a Leftover Treat: This pie holds up well in the fridge, so you can enjoy it the next day, reheated, for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
• With Extra Sauce: If you love extra sauce, serve it with a side of pizza sauce or marinara for dipping.

Additional Tips

1. Customize the Meat: Feel free to experiment with different types of meat, such as ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even pepperoni only if you want a lighter pie.
2. Make It Spicy: Add some spicy Italian sausage or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes in the filling for extra heat.
3. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or oregano can elevate the flavor of the sauce and the pie itself.
4. Try a Cheesy Crust: For an added cheesy layer, sprinkle some parmesan or mozzarella on the top crust before baking.
5. Make Ahead: You can assemble the pie in advance, refrigerate it, and then bake it the next day. This makes for an easy meal prep option.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meats and load up on extra veggies like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and black olives for a veggie-packed version.
• Gluten-Free Crust: If you’re gluten-free, swap out the Pillsbury pie crust for a gluten-free pie crust option.
• Buffalo Chicken Pie: For a spicy twist, swap the beef and sausage for cooked shredded chicken and buffalo sauce for a tangy kick.
• Cheesy Crust: Mix shredded cheese into the pie crust dough for a cheesy crust that will melt in your mouth.

Serving Suggestions

• Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly with this rich, cheesy pie.
• Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers can balance the heaviness of the pie.
• Breadsticks: Pairing this pizza pie with garlic breadsticks or crusty bread can add a fun side dish to your meal.
• Wine Pairing: Try serving with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, which complements the richness of the meats and cheeses.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: To freeze the pie, assemble it but do not bake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake it from frozen for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
• Storage: Leftover pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?

• Yes, you can use any cheese you prefer, such as provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of your favorite cheeses.

1. Can I skip the sausage in the filling?

• Absolutely! You can leave it out or substitute it with extra ground beef or other meats.

1. Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?

• Yes, you can use a gluten-free pie crust if you need to make the recipe gluten-free.

1. Can I prepare this pie in advance?

• Yes, you can assemble the pie a day ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

1. How can I make the crust extra flaky?

• For a flakier crust, you can brush the dough with a little melted butter before baking.

1. Can I add vegetables to this pie?

• Yes, feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions for extra flavor.

1. Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of pie crust?

• Yes, homemade pizza dough can be used to make a thicker, more pizza-like crust.

1. Can I make this pie spicy?

• Yes, add red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage to increase the heat level.

1. How do I store leftover pie?

• Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

1. Can I freeze the pie before baking?

• Yes, you can freeze the pie before baking, then bake it directly from frozen.

Conclusion

The Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie is a game-changer when it comes to comforting, hearty meals. With a blend of savory meats, gooey cheese, and zesty pizza sauce all encased in a flaky, buttery crust, it’s the perfect dish for pizza lovers of all ages. Whether served as a weeknight dinner, a party treat, or a special weekend meal, it’s bound to impress everyone at the table. So go ahead and give it a try—the whole family will thank you!