Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie: The 11-Step Recipe for Ultimate Comfort

Name: Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean); 1 lb mild or hot Italian sausage, casings removed; 1 large onion, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 24 oz marinara sauce (good quality); 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, undrained; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 (9-inch) unbaked pie crusts (store-bought or homemade), or pizza dough for a thicker crust; 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided; 4 oz sliced pepperoni; Optional: 1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp water (for egg wash); Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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There are some smells that just take you right back, aren't there? For me, the aroma of a hearty, bubbling bake emerging from the oven instantly transports me to my grandmother's kitchen. She had this knack for creating dishes that weren't just meals, but experiences – comforting, filling, and packed with love. It was during one of those chilly autumn evenings, with the wind rattling the windowpanes, that she first presented what she lovingly called her 'Sunday Night Special'. It wasn't a fancy dish, but a glorious, towering creation that combined all the best parts of a classic American comfort food: a robust, savory pie with a flaky crust, brimming with delicious meats and cheese. This, my friends, is my homage to that memory, a recipe I've perfected over the years, and one I'm thrilled to share with you today: the incredible Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfied sighs around your dinner table.

Table of Contents

Why This Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie is a Must-Try

Unapologetically Flavorful: This isn't just a casserole; it's a symphony of savory notes. With three kinds of meat, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese, every bite of this Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie is an explosion of flavor. It’s designed to be bold and satisfying.
Ultimate Comfort Food: Is there anything more comforting than a hot, cheesy, meaty pie on a cool evening? This Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie delivers warmth and satisfaction in spades, making it perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Feeds a Crowd (and Stores Well!): This substantial pie is ideal for feeding hungry families or guests. Plus, leftovers of Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie are absolutely fantastic the next day, making it a great meal prep option. Store them in an airtight container, perhaps some Basics Glass Food Storage containers, for easy reheating.
Customizable Goodness: While the classic Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie is stellar on its own, its robust nature allows for endless variations. Add your favorite vegetables, switch up the cheeses, or even play with different spices to make it uniquely yours.

Key Ingredient Notes

Getting the most out of your Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie starts with understanding a few key ingredients:

Ground Beef & Italian Sausage

For the ground beef, I recommend an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio. This provides enough fat for flavor without making the pie greasy. As for the Italian sausage, a good quality mild or hot Italian sausage (depending on your preference for heat) is essential. The fennel notes in the Italian sausage are crucial for that classic, hearty flavor profile in your Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie. Make sure to thoroughly brown both meats and drain any excess fat before combining them with the sauce.

The Perfect Crust

A deep-dish pie needs a sturdy yet flaky crust. While you can certainly make your own, a good quality store-bought pie crust or pizza dough can save you time without sacrificing much on taste. If using pie crust, make sure it's large enough to line your deep-dish pan and allow for a slight overhang. For a truly authentic Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie, consider a cornmeal crust for extra texture and flavor, though a standard pastry crust works beautifully too.

Marinara Sauce

Don't underestimate the power of a good marinara sauce in this Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie. A high-quality store-bought marinara can be a fantastic shortcut, but if you have a family recipe for homemade sauce, this is the time to use it! Look for a sauce with a robust tomato flavor and minimal added sugars. You can always enhance a basic marinara with extra garlic, onion powder, a pinch of oregano, or a touch of red pepper flakes for an added kick.

Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie Preparation — The Ultimate Hearty Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie for Family Dinners 4

Step-by-Step Guide with Pro Tips

Let's dive into making this magnificent Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie!

Preparing Your Meats and Sauce

Step 1: Brown the ground beef and Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break up the meat as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain off any excess grease. This is a critical step for preventing a greasy Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie.
Step 2: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the browned meat. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Pour in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for at least 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. This slow simmer develops the rich base for your Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Assembling the Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie

Step 4: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate or springform pan.
Step 5: Carefully unroll one pie crust or pizza dough and press it into the bottom and up the sides of your prepared pan. Trim any excess dough, leaving about a 1/2-inch overhang. If using pizza dough, press it evenly and create a slight lip around the edge. This forms the foundation of your Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie.
Step 6: Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the bottom of the crust. This creates a cheesy layer that helps prevent a soggy bottom.
Step 7: Spoon the meat and sauce mixture over the mozzarella layer, spreading it evenly.
Step 8: Top with the sliced pepperoni, followed by the remaining mozzarella cheese. If desired, sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese over the top for extra flavor and browning. This layers the iconic flavors of the Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie.
Step 9: Place the second pie crust or pizza dough over the top of the pie. Crimp the edges together with the bottom crust to seal, or fold the top dough over the filling and tuck it in if using a springform pan. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. For a golden crust, brush with an egg wash (one egg beaten with a tablespoon of water).

Baking and Serving

Step 10: Bake the Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie for 35-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil.
Step 11: Let the pie rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set, making for cleaner slices of your Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie.

Variations & Serving Suggestions

This Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie is a versatile canvas! Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Tasty Variations:

Veggie Boost: Stir in finely diced mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach into the meat sauce for extra nutrients and flavor. Roasted red peppers also make a fantastic addition to this Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce, or use hot Italian sausage and spicy pepperoni for a fiery version.
Cheese Lover's Dream: Experiment with different cheeses! Provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses can elevate the flavor profile. A layer of ricotta cheese under the meat sauce can add a creamy texture, transforming your Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie into something even richer.
Crust Alternatives: Instead of a traditional pie crust, consider using a cornbread mixture for the top and bottom crusts, or even a mashed potato topping for a shepherd's pie twist on this Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie concept. You could also use puff pastry for an incredibly flaky top.

What to Serve With Your Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie:

Fresh Green Salad: A simple salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pie perfectly.
Garlic Bread or Breadsticks: For soaking up any extra delicious sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or green beans roasted with a little olive oil and garlic make a great side.
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: For another hearty side, try pairing it with Perfect Crispy Baked Sweet Potato Fries Every Time!. They offer a delightful contrast in texture and sweetness.

Nutrition Information

Below is the estimated nutrition information per serving for this Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie.

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	720 kcal
Carbohydrates	45g
Cholesterol	120mg
Fat Content	45g
Fiber Content	4g
Protein Content	35g
Saturated Fat Content	18g
Serving Size	1 slice (approx. 1/8 of pie)
Sodium Content	1200mg
Sugar Content	8g
Trans Fat Content	1g
Unsaturated Fat Content	20g

Conclusion

There you have it – a recipe for a Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie that's not just a meal, but a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a heartwarming addition to your recipe repertoire. Whether it's a bustling weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend gathering, this pie delivers on flavor, comfort, and satisfaction. It’s a testament to the simple joy of good, honest food made with love. I hope this Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. Don't be shy about making it your own with your favorite additions. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I make Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meat sauce mixture a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie just before serving for the freshest taste. You can also assemble the entire pie (unbaked), cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

What's the best way to prevent a soggy bottom crust in this Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie?

To prevent a soggy bottom crust, first, ensure you drain all excess grease from the browned meat. Second, sprinkling a layer of cheese (like mozzarella) directly onto the bottom crust before adding the meat sauce acts as a barrier, helping to keep the crust crisp. Pre-baking the bottom crust for 5-7 minutes before filling can also help, but isn't always necessary for this recipe.

Can I freeze Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie?

Yes, this Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie freezes well! You can freeze the entire baked pie, or individual slices, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It will keep for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator (if frozen whole) and bake at 350u00b0F (175u00b0C) until heated through, or microwave individual slices.

What kind of pie crust works best for a Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie?

For a Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie, a sturdy yet flaky pie crust is ideal. Store-bought refrigerated pie crusts work great for convenience. You can also use pizza dough for a thicker, chewier crust reminiscent of a Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. If you're feeling ambitious, a homemade pastry crust will provide the best flavor and texture.