Three Meat Italian Pie

If you’re looking for a hearty, satisfying dish that’s bursting with flavor, then this Three Meat Italian Pie is exactly what you need. Imagine a golden, buttery crust filled with a savory medley of Italian sausage, ground beef, and pepperoni, all nestled in a rich tomato sauce and melty cheese. It’s like a pizza, a meatloaf, and a pot pie all rolled into one irresistible dish. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a casual gathering with friends, or simply craving comfort food, this dish is a total winner. Let’s dive into the magic of this Three Meat Italian Pie, shall we?

Why You’ll Love Three Meat Italian Pie

Hearty and Flavorful:

This pie is the epitome of hearty comfort food. With three types of meat—Italian sausage, ground beef, and pepperoni—along with a rich tomato sauce, this pie will fill you up and satisfy your taste buds with every bite. You won’t leave the table hungry, that’s for sure!

A Flavor Explosion:

The combination of meats brings such a robust, savory flavor to the dish, while the Italian seasoning ties it all together. Add in some gooey cheese and that crispy, buttery crust, and you’ve got yourself a flavor explosion that’s perfect for any occasion.

Easy to Make:

Don’t let the layers and flavors fool you—this dish is surprisingly easy to make. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a perfect recipe for both beginner and seasoned cooks alike.

Perfect for Meal Prep:

This Three Meat Italian Pie makes great leftovers! You can easily make it ahead of time, and it reheats beautifully. Whether you’re prepping for the week or feeding a crowd, this recipe is flexible and keeps well.

Great for Sharing:

This pie is perfect for sharing with family and friends. The generous portions and delicious layers make it a great centerpiece for any meal. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create your Three Meat Italian Pie:

For the Pie Filling:

• Italian Sausage: The rich, savory flavor of Italian sausage gives the pie its signature Italian taste. It adds that delicious spiced kick.
• Ground Beef: Provides a hearty base for the filling. It balances out the sausage and helps create that meaty texture everyone loves.
• Pepperoni: Sliced pepperoni adds a fun, pizza-like twist and a burst of flavor with every bite.
• Onion: Adds depth and sweetness to the savory filling. You can sauté it until soft for the perfect texture.
• Garlic: For that unmistakable, aromatic flavor. Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
• Tomato Sauce: A tangy, rich base that ties the whole filling together. It helps balance out the richness of the meats.
• Italian Seasoning: A classic mix of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary, bringing that authentic Italian flavor to the pie.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but these add a little heat to the dish. Adjust to your spice level.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melty and stretchy, mozzarella is the perfect cheese to fill in between the layers of savory goodness.
• Parmesan Cheese: For a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the mozzarella and adds depth to the filling.

For the Pie Crust:

• Pie Crusts: Use pre-made store-bought pie crusts for convenience, or make your own if you prefer from scratch. You’ll need two—one for the bottom and one for the top.
• Egg Wash: A simple mixture of egg and water brushed over the top of the pie to give it that golden, flaky finish.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get started on making this incredible Three Meat Italian Pie!

Prepare the Pie Filling:

1. Cook the Meats: In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and ground beef, breaking them apart with a spoon as they cook. Once browned and cooked through, drain any excess fat.
2. Add the Vegetables: To the skillet with the cooked meats, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
3. Add the Sauce and Seasoning: Pour in the tomato sauce, and stir in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Stir in the Pepperoni: Add the sliced pepperoni to the meat mixture, and cook for another 2 minutes. This will allow the pepperoni to heat through and release its flavorful oils.
5. Set the Filling Aside: Remove the skillet from heat and let the filling cool slightly while you prepare the crust.

Prepare the Pie Crust:

1. Roll out the Bottom Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Unroll the first pie crust and gently press it into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim the edges, leaving a slight overhang to fold over the top of the pie later.
2. Add the Cheese Layer: Sprinkle a thin layer of shredded mozzarella cheese on the bottom of the crust. This helps prevent the crust from becoming soggy and adds another layer of cheesy goodness.
3. Fill with Meat Mixture: Spoon the meat mixture into the crust, packing it down gently to ensure it’s evenly distributed.

Assemble and Bake the Pie:

1. Add the Top Crust: Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the top of the filled pie. Trim the excess dough and fold the edges under to seal the pie.
2. Crimp the Edges: Use your fingers or a fork to crimp the edges of the pie, sealing it tightly.
3. Add the Egg Wash: Beat the egg with a tablespoon of water, and brush the mixture over the top of the pie for a golden, glossy finish.
4. Cut Vent Holes: Make a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape while baking.
5. Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
6. Let It Cool: Allow the pie to cool for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes it easier to serve.

Serve and Enjoy:

Slice the pie into wedges, and serve with a simple side salad or garlic bread for the ultimate Italian-inspired meal. Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Three Meat Italian Pie

This Three Meat Italian Pie is a meal in itself, but here are a few ideas to round out your meal:

Fresh Green Salad:

Pair the pie with a simple green salad tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the pie.

Garlic Bread:

Serve with warm, crispy garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce and add a little crunch to your meal.

Roasted Vegetables:

Roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes, make a great side that complements the hearty pie.

Marinara Sauce for Dipping:

For extra flavor, serve the pie with a small side of marinara sauce for dipping. It adds that extra touch of Italian authenticity!

Additional Tips

Make It Ahead:

You can prepare this Three Meat Italian Pie a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

Customize the Meats:

Feel free to swap out any of the meats. You can use ground turkey instead of beef, or add a layer of meatballs instead of pepperoni. Make it your own!

Try a Cheesy Crust:

For even more cheesy goodness, sprinkle some parmesan cheese over the top of the crust before baking, or mix some cheese into the filling.

Gluten-Free Version:

If you need a gluten-free version, you can use a gluten-free pie crust. Just make sure all your ingredients (including the sausage and pepperoni) are gluten-free as well.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use only one type of meat?

A1: Absolutely! If you prefer, you can just use Italian sausage or ground beef—both work wonderfully on their own.

Q2: Can I freeze this pie?

A2: Yes, you can freeze the assembled pie (unbaked) for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When you’re ready to bake it, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Q3: Can I use store-bought sauce?

A3: Of course! If you’re short on time, store-bought marinara sauce is perfectly fine. Just choose one with good flavor to enhance the pie.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?

A4: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q5: Can I make this pie without pepperoni?

A5: Yes, you can omit the pepperoni and use more of the other meats, or add another ingredient like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor.

Q6: Can I use a different type of cheese?

A6: Absolutely! You can use provolone, cheddar, or any cheese that melts well. Mozzarella is traditional, but feel free to experiment.

Q7: Can I make this pie in a different pan?

A7: Sure! You can use a deeper pie dish, a tart pan, or even a square baking dish. Just adjust the baking time if you change the shape or size of the pan.

Q8: Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

A8: Yes, you can replace the meats with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant, and add some tofu or lentils for protein.

Q9: How can I make the crust extra crispy?

A9: Brush the crust with a little olive oil or butter before baking, and be sure to bake it until it’s golden brown and crispy all around.

Q10: Can I make this pie in advance?

A10: Yes! You can assemble the pie a day ahead and refrigerate it, then bake it just before serving. It’s a great make-ahead dish for busy nights or parties.

Conclusion

This Three Meat Italian Pie is the perfect blend of hearty, flavorful meats and gooey cheese, all wrapped up in a golden, flaky crust. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or bringing it to a party, it’s bound to impress and leave everyone craving more. Enjoy!

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