Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty pie, especially one that’s filled with all your favorite pizza toppings. This Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie has quickly become a family favorite in my household. It combines the best elements of a classic pizza with the convenience of a pie crust, creating a dish that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. The combination of savory ground beef, spicy Italian sausage, and zesty pepperoni, all nestled in gooey cheese and robust pizza sauce, makes for a delicious meal that even the pickiest eaters can’t resist. My family absolutely devoured this pie, and I can’t wait to share the recipe with you!

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 (to brush on top crust)

Instructions

Prepare the Filling

1. Cook the Meats: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until browned. Drain any excess fat and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Preheat the Oven: While the meat is cooling, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Assemble the Pizza Pie

1. Roll Out the Dough: Take one of the rolled pie crusts and roll it out to fit a deep-dish pie pan or a deep skillet.
2. Layer the Cheese: Start by layering half of the mozzarella cheese at the bottom of the crust.
3. Add the Meat: Add a layer of the cooked ground beef and Italian sausage, followed by the pepperoni slices.
4. Pour the Sauce: Evenly pour the pizza sauce over the meat mixture. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes if using.
5. Top with Cheese and Pepperoni: Add the remaining mozzarella cheese on top, followed by another layer of pepperoni slices.
6. Add the Second Crust: Place the second pie crust on top. Pinch the edges to seal, and brush with melted butter mixed with garlic powder for added flavor.

Bake the Pizza Pie

1. Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Cool and Serve: Let the pie cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 400 kcal
• Total Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 850mg
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 18g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve

• Slice and Serve:
• Serve warm, cut into wedges.
• Pair with a side salad for a balanced meal.
• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an added touch.

Additional Tips

1. Customize the Fillings: Feel free to substitute or add other ingredients like mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives to suit your taste.
2. Use Leftover Meats: This is a great recipe for using leftover meats, making it a fantastic way to reduce waste.
3. Make It Spicy: For those who love a kick, add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
4. Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheese combinations like Monterey Jack or feta for a unique flavor.
5. Check for Doneness: Ensure the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling before removing it from the oven.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the meats with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach for a veggie-packed pie.
• BBQ Chicken Pie: Swap out the pizza sauce for BBQ sauce and use shredded rotisserie chicken in place of beef and sausage.
• Breakfast Version: Use scrambled eggs, diced ham, and cheddar cheese for a hearty breakfast pie.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Dips: Serve with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
• Complement with Sides: A light green salad or roasted vegetables can balance the richness of the pie.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled pie (before baking) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make this pie ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the pie up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours.

1. What can I use instead of Pillsbury crust?

• You can make your own pie crust or use a gluten-free option if needed.

1. Can I add more cheese?

• Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese to your liking.

1. Is there a vegetarian alternative?

• Yes, you can substitute the meats with vegetables or plant-based protein.

1. How do I know when the pie is done?

• The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

1. What type of pan should I use?

• A deep-dish pie pan or a deep skillet works best for this recipe.

1. Can I use different types of sausage?

• Yes, feel free to use any type of sausage you prefer, including chicken or turkey sausage.

1. What if I don’t have pizza sauce?

• Marinara sauce is a great alternative, or you can make your own sauce if you have the ingredients.

1. Can I add more spices?

• You can add spices like oregano, thyme, or crushed red pepper to enhance the flavor.

1. How long does it take to bake from frozen?
   • From frozen, bake the pie for about 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted.

Conclusion

The Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together. Its hearty filling and flaky crust make it a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game night, enjoying a family dinner, or simply craving a delicious slice of comfort food, this pie delivers. I hope you and your loved ones enjoy it as much as my family does! So grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in this delicious creation. Happy cooking!

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