Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie
This hearty and satisfying deep-dish pie combines ground beef, sausage, and pepperoni with gooey cheese and a crispy crust. Perfect for pizza lovers, it’s a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup Italian sausage, crumbled
- 1 cup pepperoni slices
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 package (2.5 oz) refrigerated pizza crust (or homemade dough)
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a deep-dish pie pan or pizza pan with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Meats
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Season the mixture with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
3. Prepare the Pizza Crust
Roll out the refrigerated pizza crust on a floured surface to fit the size of your pan. Press the dough evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the pan, ensuring an even thickness.
4. Assemble the Pie
- Spread half of the marinara sauce over the crust.
- Layer the cooked meat mixture evenly over the sauce.
- Add a layer of pepperoni slices.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Spread the remaining marinara sauce over the cheese.
5. Bake
Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the crust is cooked through.
6. Serve
Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Calories: ~500 kcal per serving
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade pizza dough?
Yes, homemade dough works wonderfully and adds a personal touch. Roll it out to fit your pan before assembling the pie.
2. What other meats can I use?
You can substitute ground beef or sausage with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian-friendly option.
3. Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, black olives, spinach, or chopped zucchini make excellent additions.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the meat mixture and crust separately and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble and bake just before serving.
5. What other cheeses can I use?
While mozzarella is classic, feel free to use cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses for variety.
6. How do I avoid a soggy crust?
To prevent a soggy crust, pre-bake the pizza dough for 5-7 minutes before adding the toppings. You can also sprinkle a thin layer of cheese on the base before spreading the sauce.
7. Can I use a different type of sauce?
Yes, you can substitute marinara with pizza sauce, arrabbiata, or even Alfredo for a creamy variation.
8. What sides pair well with this dish?
Serve this pie with a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
9. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, slice the pie into portions and wrap tightly in foil or store in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
10. How can I make this dish spicier?
For added heat, mix crushed red pepper flakes into the meat mixture or use spicy Italian sausage and pepperoni.
This Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie is a crowd-pleaser and a guaranteed favorite at the dinner table. Customize it with your favorite toppings and enjoy!