Description: This Deep Dish Hamburger, Sausage, and Pepperoni Pie is the ultimate comfort food experience. Imagine a symphony of savory flavors and textures, where juicy ground beef, spicy Italian sausage, tangy pizza sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese unite within a flaky, golden-brown deep-dish crust. Crowned with crispy pepperoni slices, this pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you crave a hearty and satisfying meal. Prepare to indulge in a truly unforgettable culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Ingredients: 🛒
- 1 deep-dish pie crust (store-bought or homemade, approximately 9-10 inches in diameter)
- ½ pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
- ½ pound Italian sausage, casing removed (mild, sweet, or hot, depending on your preference)
- 1 cup pizza sauce (high-quality, flavorful sauce)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (low-moisture, part-skim recommended)
- 20-25 pepperoni slices (regular or small size)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and browning
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the center of the oven to promote even baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat. In a large skillet or frying pan, crumble the ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook over medium heat, breaking up the meat with a spatula or spoon, until it is fully browned. Drain off any excess grease from the pan.
Step 3: Season the Meat. Add the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the cooked meat mixture. Stir well to combine, ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed. Adjust the amount of salt and pepper to your personal taste preference.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie. Place the deep-dish pie crust into a pie plate or baking dish. If using a store-bought crust, ensure it is thawed according to the package directions. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the bottom of the pie crust.
Step 5: Add the Meat and Cheese. Layer the cooked meat mixture over the pizza sauce. Distribute the meat evenly to ensure each slice of the pie contains a generous portion. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the meat mixture, covering it completely. Arrange the pepperoni slices on top of the cheese in a decorative pattern. If desired, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pepperoni and mozzarella.
Step 6: Bake the Pie. Place the pie plate onto a baking sheet. This will help catch any potential drips and ensure even heat distribution. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, and the crust is cooked through and lightly browned. The internal temperature of the filling should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 7: Rest and Serve. Remove the pie from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Deep Dish Hamburger, Sausage, and Pepperoni Pie is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, sparking conversation and creating lasting memories. You’ll love this recipe because:
- It’s incredibly delicious: The combination of savory meats, tangy sauce, and melty cheese is simply irresistible.
- It’s easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this pie is perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks.
- It’s customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to your personal preferences by using different types of meat, cheese, or toppings.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser: This pie is always a hit at parties, potlucks, and family gatherings.
- It’s satisfying and comforting: This hearty pie is the perfect way to warm up on a cold day or enjoy a cozy night in.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the pie hot, straight from the oven, with a side salad for a complete and balanced meal.
- Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pie.
- Offer a variety of toppings, such as sliced tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, or olives, for guests to customize their slices.
- Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
- Enjoy it with a glass of your favorite beverage, such as beer, wine, or soda.
Tips:
- For a crispier crust, pre-bake the pie crust for 5-7 minutes before adding the filling.
- If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil.
- Use a pizza stone for even baking and a perfectly crisp crust.
- To prevent the cheese from burning, tent the pie with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Make the pie ahead of time and reheat it before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.)
- Calories: Approximately 480-550 kcal per slice
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams per slice
- Sodium: Approximately 800-1000 milligrams per slice
Conclusion
The Deep Dish Hamburger, Sausage, and Pepperoni Pie is a culinary adventure that will transport you to a world of savory delight. With its layers of flavorful ingredients and satisfying textures, this pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to embark on a delicious journey that will leave you craving more. This recipe is not just about making a pie; it’s about creating memories, sharing laughter, and indulging in the simple pleasures of life. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use different types of meat in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of meat, such as ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled bacon. You can also use a combination of meats to create a unique flavor profile.
Q2: Can I add vegetables to this pie?
A: Yes, you can! Adding vegetables to this pie is a great way to boost its nutritional value and add extra flavor. Some popular choices include sliced onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Simply sauté the vegetables before adding them to the pie.
Q3: Can I make this pie ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this pie ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Simply assemble the pie according to the instructions, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the pie is cold.
Q4: Can I freeze this pie?
A: Yes, you can freeze this pie for longer storage. To freeze, bake the pie according to the instructions, then let it cool completely. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight, then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Q5: What can I do to make this recipe healthier?
A: There are several ways to make this recipe healthier without sacrificing flavor. You can use lean ground beef and turkey sausage, reduce the amount of cheese, add more vegetables, and use a whole-wheat pie crust. You can also use a low-fat pizza sauce and reduce the amount of salt. These simple changes can significantly reduce the calories, fat, and sodium content of the pie.
