Description: This hearty Deep Dish Hamburger, Sausage & Pepperoni Pie is a savory delight, perfect for satisfying a crowd or enjoying as a comforting family meal. It features a flaky pie crust filled with a rich mixture of seasoned ground beef, Italian sausage, pepperoni, melted cheeses, and a hint of Italian seasoning. A slice of this pie is like a pizza and a burger all in one bite!
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 2 pre-made pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 cup pepperoni slices
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup marinara sauce (optional, for added moisture and flavor)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure your oven rack is positioned in the center for even baking.
Step 2: Cook the Meat
In a large skillet, preferably a cast-iron skillet, over medium heat, add the ground beef and Italian sausage. Use a spoon or spatula to break up the meat as it cooks. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink, ensuring to crumble the meat into small pieces for an even distribution throughout the pie.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked meat. Sauté the onion and garlic until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for adding depth and complexity to the overall flavor of the pie.
Step 4: Season and Cool
Season the meat mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Cooling the mixture will prevent the pie crust from becoming soggy.
Step 5: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked meat mixture, pepperoni slices, shredded mozzarella cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and marinara sauce (if using). Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined. The cheeses should be evenly distributed, and the marinara sauce should coat the meat mixture lightly for added moisture and flavor.
Step 6: Assemble the Pie
Roll out one of the pre-made pie crusts. Carefully place it into a 9-inch pie dish, gently pressing it against the bottom and sides of the dish. Trim any excess crust that hangs over the edge.
Step 7: Add Filling to Crust
Pour the meat and cheese filling into the pie crust, spreading it evenly. Make sure the filling is distributed uniformly to ensure each slice of the pie contains an equal amount of meat, cheese, and pepperoni.
Step 8: Top with Second Crust
Roll out the second pie crust. Place it over the filling, covering the entire pie. Trim any excess crust and crimp the edges together to seal the pie. You can use a fork to press the edges together or create a decorative crimped edge with your fingers.
Step 9: Cut Slits in Crust
Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking. This will prevent the crust from bubbling up and becoming soggy. The slits also add a nice visual touch to the finished pie.
Step 10: Egg Wash (Optional)
If desired, brush the top of the pie crust with a beaten egg. This will give the crust a golden-brown, glossy finish. Whisk the egg thoroughly before brushing it onto the crust for an even coating.
Step 11: Bake
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly. Keep an eye on the pie during baking to prevent the crust from burning. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
Step 12: Cool and Serve
Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This will allow the filling to set slightly and prevent it from running out when you cut into the pie. Serve the pie warm.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Deep Dish Hamburger, Sausage & Pepperoni Pie is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines the best elements of a burger and a pizza in one delicious package. The combination of seasoned ground beef, Italian sausage, pepperoni, and melted cheeses creates a rich and savory flavor that is sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetite. The flaky pie crust provides the perfect textural contrast to the gooey, flavorful filling. This recipe is also versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences. You can add different types of cheese, vegetables, or spices to create your own unique version. It’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients and create a memorable meal that everyone will enjoy.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this pie warm, sliced into wedges. It’s delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette
- Coleslaw
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts)
- Tomato soup
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground beef and ground chuck.
- If you don’t have Italian sausage, you can use another type of sausage, such as chorizo or bratwurst.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to the filling, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions.
- For a spicier pie, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling.
- If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pizza dough instead of pie crust.
- To prevent the crust from burning, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
- Let the pie cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing to allow the filling to set.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 450-550 per slice
- Protein: Approximately 25-35 grams per slice
- Sodium: Approximately 600-800 mg per slice
Conclusion:
The Deep Dish Hamburger, Sausage & Pepperoni Pie is a truly delectable and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply looking for a comforting family meal, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of flavorful meats, melted cheeses, and a flaky pie crust creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your fillings and customize this recipe to your liking. With a little practice, you’ll be able to create a Deep Dish Hamburger, Sausage & Pepperoni Pie that is truly your own. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to create your own unique flavor profile. Some great alternatives include provolone, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
Q2: Can I add vegetables to the filling?
A: Yes, you can definitely add vegetables to the filling. Bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, or even spinach would be great additions. Just make sure to sauté the vegetables before adding them to the filling to ensure they are cooked through.
Q3: Can I make this pie ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake the pie, simply assemble it and bake as directed. You can also assemble the entire pie ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q4: Can I freeze this pie?
A: Yes, you can freeze this pie for longer storage. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake the pie, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
Q5: How do I prevent the bottom crust from becoming soggy?
A: There are a few things you can do to prevent the bottom crust from becoming soggy. First, make sure to cool the meat mixture slightly before adding it to the crust. This will prevent the crust from getting too wet. You can also brush the bottom crust with a beaten egg before adding the filling. This will create a barrier between the filling and the crust, helping to keep it crisp. Finally, bake the pie on the bottom rack of the oven to ensure the crust gets cooked thoroughly.
