Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie: A Savory Feast for Cheese and Meat Lovers
If you’re craving a rich, comforting dish packed with layers of melted cheese, savory ground beef, Italian sausage, and pepperoni, this Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie will become your new go-to. Think of it as a deep-dish pizza and meat pie hybrid that’s bursting with bold flavors and gooey goodness.
Why This Recipe Works
This pie combines several beloved ingredients — mozzarella cheese, ground beef, Italian sausage, and pepperoni — to create a layered, satisfying meal that’s simple to make but impressively delicious. The blend of meats adds a complexity of flavor, while the melted mozzarella ties everything together with creamy texture. Whether served hot from the oven for a cozy family dinner or sliced up for a party, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ pound ground beef
½ pound Italian sausage (optional but recommended for extra flavor)
1 cup sliced pepperoni
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 jar (about 24 oz) marinara or pizza sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: Italian seasoning or dried oregano for extra flavor
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a deep-dish pie pan or a 9-inch round baking dish.
2. Cook the Meat
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add ground beef and Italian sausage (if using), breaking the meat apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if desired.
3. Assemble the Pie
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your prepared pan. Add half the mozzarella cheese, then layer the cooked meat mixture evenly. Distribute the pepperoni slices over the meat. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and a final generous layer of marinara sauce.
4. Bake
Place the pie in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.
5. Serve
Let the pie cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfecting Your Pie
Italian sausage: Using Italian sausage adds depth and spice, but you can omit it for a simpler version.
Pepperoni: Feel free to add more or less depending on your preference, or swap for salami or other cured meats.
Cheese: For extra cheesiness, mix mozzarella with provolone or Parmesan.
Make ahead: Prepare the meat mixture in advance and assemble just before baking to save time.
Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes to the meat or sauce for a little heat.
Variations to Try
Deep-dish pizza style: Use pizza dough as a crust lining the dish for a heartier pie.
Vegetarian version: Replace meat with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and olives.
Cheesy stuffed: Fold extra cheese between layers of meat for an ooey-gooey surprise.
This Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie is a celebration of all things hearty and cheesy. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Ready to dig in?