The TV was already blaring in the living room—pre-game commentary, the usual mix of expert predictions and rival banter. My husband had claimed his spot on the couch with a throw blanket, his team jersey, and the kind of intense focus only football season can bring.
Which meant the stakes were high—and not just for the teams. In our house, good food is part of the tradition. That’s when I remembered a pie I’d been mentally drafting for weeks: something deep-dish, savory, and loaded with all the bold flavors we crave during game time.
A buttery pie crust packed with seasoned ground beef, spicy Italian sausage, melty mozzarella, zesty pepperoni, and a rich layer of marinara—this was the kind of pie that could hold its own against any touchdown. As the scent of melted cheese and Italian seasoning filled the house, even my husband peeked into the kitchen during a commercial break.
Short Description
This Deep Hamburger Sausage and Pepperoni Pie is a meaty, cheesy, and flavor-packed dish baked in a golden pie crust—perfect for game night, family dinners, or a comfort-filled weekend meal.
Key Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage (optional)
- 1 box Pillsbury ready bake pie crusts (2 rolled crusts)
- 1 cup pepperoni slices
- 1 1/2 cups pizza sauce or marinara
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or provolone cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 3 tablespoons melted butter (to brush on top crust)
Tools Needed
- 9-inch pie dish
- Skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Pastry brush
- Oven
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Meats
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage (if using) until browned and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes. Break the meat into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess fat and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
Unroll one of the pie crusts and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Press it gently into the bottom and up the sides. Let any overhang rest for now.
Step 3: Layer the Filling
Start by spreading 1/2 cup of the marinara or pizza sauce at the bottom of the crust. Add half the meat mixture, then layer with 1 cup mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or provolone, and a layer of pepperoni. Sprinkle on half the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes if using.
Step 4: Repeat and Top
Repeat the layers with the remaining meat, cheeses, sauce, and spices. Top with remaining pepperoni slices.
Step 5: Seal the Pie
Unroll the second pie crust and lay it over the top. Trim excess dough and crimp the edges to seal. Cut 4 small slits in the center to allow steam to escape.
Step 6: Brush and Bake
Brush the top crust with melted butter. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crisp.
Step 7: Rest Before Serving
Let the pie rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the cheese set slightly and makes serving easier.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Packed with hearty, bold flavors
– Perfect for sharing at gatherings or family dinners
– Easy to make with store-bought crusts
– Customizable with your favorite meats and cheeses
– Satisfies pizza and pie cravings all in one dish
Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions
Overfilling the Pie: If the pie is too full, it can bubble over. Keep sauce and cheese within a 1/2-inch margin from the top.
Undercooked Crust: Make sure the bottom crust is fully cooked by baking on the lower oven rack.
Soggy Bottom: Let the cooked meat cool before layering to avoid too much moisture.
No Steam Slits: Always cut vents in the top crust so steam can escape and prevent sogginess.
Skipping Rest Time: Cutting into the pie immediately will lead to messy slices. Let it rest for cleaner cuts.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
– Serve hot slices with a fresh green salad for balance.
– Great for buffet spreads or served plated for dinner.
– Pairs well with cold beer, sparkling water, or a glass of red wine.
– Also delicious alongside roasted vegetables or garlic knots.
Storage and Reheating Tips
– Cool completely before storing.
– Wrap leftovers in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
– Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes to maintain crisp crust.
– For a quick option, microwave slices for 1–2 minutes but the crust may soften.
– Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the pie a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake fresh when ready.
2. What can I use instead of Italian sausage?
Try ground turkey, chicken sausage, or just increase the ground beef to 1 pound.
3. Can I make it spicier?
Absolutely! Add more red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.
4. Is it possible to use homemade crust?
Yes, a homemade pie crust works beautifully if you have time. Just roll to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
5. How do I keep the crust from burning?
Cover the edges with foil halfway through baking if they start to brown too quickly.
Tips & Tricks
– Sprinkle a little parmesan over the top crust before baking for extra flavor.
– Let the meat cool slightly before layering to prevent a soggy crust.
– Use parchment under your pie dish to catch any potential drips.
– If using a deep-dish pan, adjust bake time by 5–7 more minutes.
– A serrated knife works best for clean slices.
Recipe Variations
Veggie Lovers’ Version: Replace the meats with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach. Reduce the sauce slightly to prevent sogginess.
BBQ Twist: Use BBQ sauce instead of marinara and swap pepperoni for cooked bacon. Add smoked gouda for an extra layer of flavor.
Breakfast Pie: Use cooked breakfast sausage, scrambled eggs, cheddar, and a dash of hot sauce. Great for brunch.
Low-Carb Option: Skip the top crust and bake open-faced. Use less sauce and more meat and cheese.
Final Thoughts
This Deep Hamburger Sausage and Pepperoni Pie has carved a permanent spot on our game day table. It brings together everything we love about comfort food: a golden crust, melty cheese, seasoned meats, and the kind of richness that turns a simple dinner into a celebration. While the flavors are bold, the process is incredibly approachable, even for weeknight cooking.
That playoff evening stood out—not because of the final score, but for the laughter echoing through the room, the plates piled high, and the moment we knew this pie had earned a spot in our regular game night lineup.
Deep Hamburger Sausage And Pepperoni Pie
Print ThisIngredients
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage (optional)
- 1 box Pillsbury ready bake pie crusts (2 rolled crusts)
- 1 cup pepperoni slices
- 1 1/2 cups pizza sauce or marinara
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or provolone cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 3 tablespoons melted butter (to brush on top crust)
Instructions
Step 1. Cook the Meats: Brown ground beef and sausage in a skillet, then drain and let cool.
Step 2. Prepare the Crust: Line a 9-inch pie dish with one rolled pie crust.
Step 3. Layer the Filling: Spread sauce, add meat, cheeses, and pepperoni, then season.
Step 4. Repeat and Top: Add another layer of fillings and finish with pepperoni.
Step 5. Seal the Pie: Cover with the second crust, trim, crimp edges, and cut slits.
Step 6. Brush and Bake: Brush with melted butter and bake at 350°F for 30–35 minutes.
Step 7. Rest Before Serving: Let it rest 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
