Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie
Introduction
Few dishes deliver soul-satisfying comfort like the Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie. A fusion of pizza and pie.
this rich creation brings together everything we love in a hearty, homemade meal. Imagine juicy ground beef mingling with bold Italian sausage.
slathered in zesty pizza sauce, and wrapped up in a flaky deep-dish crust. Every bite is loaded with layers of flavor and texture, perfect for cold nights, game-day gatherings, or when only the heartiest of meals will do.
Ingredients
1 deep-dish pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 lb ground beef
1/2 lb Italian sausage, casing removed
1 cup pizza sauce
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
20–25 pepperoni slices
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready once your pie is assembled. A hot oven ensures the crust bakes up golden and crispy while the cheese bubbles to perfection.
In a large skillet, combine the ground beef and Italian sausage. Add garlic powder, a pinch of salt, and a sprinkle of pepper.
Cook over medium heat until the meat is fully browned and crumbly. Use a slotted spoon to remove excess grease for a less greasy, more balanced pie.
With your crust placed in a pie tin, begin layering by spreading a generous base of pizza sauce evenly across the bottom.
This adds moisture and rich tomato flavor that complements the meat and cheese beautifully.
Next, spoon the cooked meat mixture over the sauce. Distribute it evenly so every bite gets a taste of the savory blend. Press it down gently to help everything hold together during baking.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the meat. The cheese will melt and ooze into the layers, bringing everything together with gooey, delicious texture.
Arrange the pepperoni slices across the top, overlapping them slightly for full coverage. As they bake, they’ll release flavorful oils and develop a slightly crisp finish that adds even more depth.
Sprinkle the top with Italian seasoning for that final touch of herby aroma and extra flavor. Then bake for about 30–35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the crust is golden.
How to Make
Start by preparing your ingredients ahead of time—slice your pepperoni if needed, shred the mozzarella, and have your pizza sauce ready to go. Prepping in advance makes the whole process smoother and faster.
For the crust, you can use a store-bought deep-dish pie crust to save time, or make your own for a more personalized touch.
Ensure it’s chilled but pliable, and press it evenly into a pie dish, trimming any overhang.
Cook your meats together in the same skillet, but take the time to break them up finely.
This ensures they integrate well and you don’t get uneven clumps in your pie. Drain off any extra fat to keep the final product from being overly greasy.
Layering is key to the pie’s structure. Start with the sauce to protect the crust from becoming soggy.
then follow with the meat, cheese, and pepperoni. Each layer should be even, but don’t press too firmly or you may compact it too much.
Use quality mozzarella cheese for the best melt and flavor. If desired, combine mozzarella with a bit of provolone or parmesan for an extra savory twist. Just avoid overloading the cheese, or the top may become too greasy.
Once assembled, baking it on a sheet pan helps catch any overflow and makes it easier to transfer in and out of the oven.
Keep an eye on the pie near the end of baking to ensure the cheese gets nicely golden but doesn’t burn.
After baking, let it rest for at least five minutes. This helps the layers settle and makes slicing easier. A rested pie holds together better and ensures the flavors come through with every bite.
Variations
Swap the Italian sausage for spicy chorizo or mild breakfast sausage to alter the flavor profile. This gives you the flexibility to match the pie to your personal spice preference.
Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms into the meat mixture for added texture, nutrition, and flavor. These additions also balance out the richness of the meat and cheese.
Use a different sauce base—like marinara, pesto, or even a white garlic sauce—for a fun twist on the original pizza theme. This can completely change the vibe of the dish.
Try using cheddar or a blend of Italian cheeses instead of just mozzarella. Each cheese brings a different melt quality and flavor, so you can mix and match for your ideal topping.
Experiment with a biscuit-style or cornbread crust instead of the traditional pie crust. This turns the dish into something between a pizza and a casserole, offering a new texture and presentation.
Incorporate herbs like fresh basil or oregano in the final layer for a burst of brightness. A little fresh green can elevate the richness and give it a gourmet touch.
If you’re looking to lighten it up, use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and sausage, and opt for reduced-fat cheese. The result is still delicious but a bit easier on the calories.
Tips
Allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing. This helps everything hold together better and keeps you from burning your mouth on molten cheese.
Line your baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. The oils from the cheese and pepperoni can sometimes bubble over the edges.
Use a sharp serrated knife to cut clean slices. This will keep the layers from smearing and help maintain the pie’s beautiful, structured look.
Don’t overload with cheese or sauce. While tempting, too much of either can lead to a soggy crust or overly greasy top.
Add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you want more spice. You can mix it into the sauce or sprinkle it on top before serving.
For the best crust, brush the edges with a bit of olive oil or melted butter before baking. It gives a golden, glossy finish and a little extra flavor.
Make it ahead and reheat slices in the oven or air fryer. This pie holds up well, making it a great option for leftovers or meal prep.
Conclusion
Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie is everything you love about pizza and hearty casseroles combined in one crave-worthy dish. It’s rich, cheesy, meaty, and wrapped in a golden crust that adds the perfect finishing touch. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to comfort food, this pie never disappoints.
From its bold flavors to its layered goodness, this dish is sure to satisfy your appetite and bring smiles to the table. It’s easy to customize, simple to make, and absolutely unforgettable. Give it a try and enjoy a slice of something truly indulgent.