If you’ve been searching for a hearty, flavor-packed dish that satisfies every craving, look no further than this Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie Recipe. Imagine the perfect marriage of savory ground beef and Italian sausage, layered with bubbling mozzarella and sharp Parmesan, all nestled inside a flaky deep-dish crust and topped with crispy pepperoni slices. This pie is like a cozy hug on a plate, bursting with bold Italian seasonings and rich textures that will make it your new go-to comfort food. From family dinners to weekend gatherings, this dish promises warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Putting together this Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie Recipe is surprisingly straightforward because the ingredients are simple yet powerful. Each component plays its part to build layers of taste, texture, and color that bring this pie to life.
- 1 pre-made pie crust (deep-dish style): Provides a sturdy, buttery base that holds all the delicious fillings perfectly.
- 1 lb ground beef: Adds a hearty, meaty bite full of savory flavor.
- ½ lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy): Infuses the pie with aromatic herbs and a touch of spice for depth.
- 1 cup pizza sauce: Brings a tangy, tomato-rich moisture that ties flavors together.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create a gooey, satisfying texture.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty, slightly sharp finish that brightens the pie.
- 1 cup pepperoni slices: Adds a crispy, smoky top layer that delivers mouthwatering pizzazz.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Gives a gentle punch of aromatic warmth.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Enhances savory undertones without overpowering.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A classic blend that brings all the herbs of Italy into every bite.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for rounding out the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Filling
Start by cooking your ground beef and Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat until they’re thoroughly browned and sizzling. Make sure to drain any excess grease to keep the pie from getting too oily. Then, season the meat with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to infuse those classic Italian flavors deep into the filling. Set this savory mixture aside for later layering.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Place the deep-dish pie crust into your baking pan and give it a head start by partially baking for 8 to 10 minutes. This step ensures the crust won’t be soggy once you add all that juicy meat and sauce—keeping your pie crisp and perfectly textured.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Now for the fun part—layering! Spread half of your shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the partially baked crust. Next, pile on the seasoned meat mixture, ensuring every corner is covered. Spoon the luscious pizza sauce over the meat, spreading it out smoothly. Then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top, and arrange the pepperoni slices over everything like a crowning glory that promises that irresistible crispy finish.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
Bake your assembled pie in the oven for about 25 to 30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and the crust has turned a gorgeous golden brown. If you want to take those pepperoni slices to the next level of crispiness, pop the pie under the broiler for an additional 2 to 3 minutes—just watch carefully so they don’t burn.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
This last step is pure patience rewarded—allow your pie to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps all the melted cheese and juices settle, so each slice holds together beautifully for a satisfying, mess-free experience. Grab a plate and dig in!
How to Serve Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or oregano adds a touch of vibrant green and a fresh herbal kick that perfectly complements the richness of the pie. If you love a little heat, crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil can also amp up the flavor.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides. A simple garden salad tossed in a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness, while roasted vegetables or garlic bread make the meal even more indulgent and comforting.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the pie alongside a small bowl of marinara sauce for dipping your slices—it’s a fun and casual way to elevate the experience. You can also cut it into bite-sized squares for parties or game nights, turning this homey pie into irresistible finger food that disappears fast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store the pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This helps keep the crust crisp and the flavors fresh, so reheated slices taste almost as good as freshly baked.
Freezing
This Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie Recipe also freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place them in freezer-safe containers, then freeze for up to two months. Having this pie on hand makes for a convenient, delicious meal anytime cravings hit.
Reheating
Reheat leftover pie slices in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 to 15 minutes. This method restores the crispy crust and melty cheese much better than a microwave, delivering that fresh-baked feeling with ease.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of a pre-made pie crust?
Absolutely! Using homemade pizza dough can add a wonderful freshness to the base and give you control over thickness and texture. Just be sure to press it into a deep-dish pan for that authentic pie feel.
What type of Italian sausage works best for this recipe?
Both mild and spicy Italian sausages work well—choose based on your heat preference. Mild sausage lets the other flavors shine, while spicy adds a nice kick that complements the pepperoni.
Can I substitute the pepperoni for other toppings?
Of course! Feel free to swap pepperoni with cooked mushrooms, bell peppers, or even sliced olives for a different twist, but do keep that classic pepperoni around next time; it’s hard to beat!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The traditional recipe isn’t gluten-free due to the standard pie crust, but you can definitely use a gluten-free deep-dish crust to keep all the flavors while accommodating dietary needs.
How spicy is this pie?
The spiciness depends on the sausage you choose and if you add any extra heat like crushed red pepper. The recipe is well-balanced, offering robust flavor with a mild to medium spice level that appeals to most palates.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie Recipe, it’s hard to go back to ordinary weeknight dinners. It’s a wonderfully comforting dish that combines your favorite pizza flavors in a new, exciting form—a true crowd-pleaser that brings everyone to the table. So go ahead, give it a shot, and watch it become a treasured favorite in your cooking repertoire!
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Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie is a hearty, flavorful savory pie packed with ground beef, Italian sausage, melted mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and spicy pepperoni slices baked in a buttery deep-dish crust. The combination of Italian seasonings and rich meats topped with bubbly cheese makes this pie a perfect comfort food for family dinners or game days.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 pre-made pie crust (deep-dish style)
Meat Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other Ingredients
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup pepperoni slices
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage together until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease to keep the filling from being too oily. Season the meat mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor. Set aside once cooked.
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pre-made deep-dish pie crust in a suitable pie pan. Partially bake the crust for 8-10 minutes to ensure it holds up well once the filling is added and doesn’t become soggy during the full baking.
- Assemble the Pie: Spread half of the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the partially baked crust. Next, add the cooked meat mixture on top of the cheese layer. Evenly spread the cup of pizza sauce over the meat. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese over the sauce. Finally, arrange the pepperoni slices evenly across the top layer for a flavorful finish.
- Bake the Pie: Bake the assembled pie in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the crust has turned a beautiful golden brown. For extra crispy pepperoni, switch the oven to broil and broil the pie for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This rest time helps the filling set, making it easier to slice and serve. Enjoy this delicious and hearty pie hot for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- You can substitute mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your heat preference.
- Using a pre-made deep-dish pie crust saves time but homemade crust can be used for a fresher taste.
- Partially baking the crust beforehand prevents sogginess from the meat and sauce.
- Broiling briefly at the end crisps the pepperoni nicely but watch it carefully as it can burn fast.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven to maintain crispness.
