Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie

Hearty, indulgent, and packed with bold flavors, Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie is comfort food taken to the next level.

This dish layers savory ground beef and Italian sausage with tangy tomato sauce, melty mozzarella, and spicy pepperoni, all baked together in a golden crust. It’s like a marriage of pizza and casserole, where every bite delivers richness, warmth, and satisfaction.

Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy weekend meal, this pie is a true crowd-pleaser that brings both homestyle comfort and irresistible flavor to the table.

Why People Will Love Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie:

A fusion of favorites – Combines the best of pizza and casserole in one dish, delivering layers of hearty meat, melty cheese, and bold Italian spices.

Rich and satisfying – With beef, sausage, and pepperoni, it’s a protein-packed meal that feels indulgent and filling, perfect for big appetites.

Family-friendly comfort – Familiar flavors and gooey cheese make it a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults around the dinner table.

Customizable layers – Easily adaptable with extra veggies, different cheeses, or spicier sausage, so each cook can make it their own.

Perfect for gatherings – Its deep-dish presentation looks impressive, slices easily, and feeds a crowd, making it ideal for potlucks or game-day meals.

Key Ingredients:

Ground beef – The hearty backbone of the filling, bringing richness and a savory depth that anchors the dish.

Italian sausage – Infuses each bite with spiced, herby notes and a juicy texture that elevates the flavor beyond plain beef.

Pepperoni – Adds a bold punch of smokiness and spice, layering the pie with that unmistakable “pizzeria” taste.

Tomato sauce – The tangy, saucy element that ties the meats and cheese together, balancing richness with acidity.

Mozzarella and cheddar cheese – Melt into a gooey, golden blanket, delivering creaminess and that irresistible cheese pull.

Pie crust or pizza dough – Provides the sturdy base and flaky crunch that transform this from a skillet meal into a hearty, sliceable pie.

Expert Tips:

Drain the meat well – After browning the beef and sausage, be sure to drain off excess fat. Too much grease can make the crust soggy and overpower the flavors.

Layer strategically – Placing a layer of cheese directly over the crust before adding the meat mixture acts as a barrier, helping keep the crust crisp while adding extra gooeyness.

Toast the spices – Let the oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes cook briefly in the tomato sauce as it simmers. This deepens their aroma and infuses the meat mixture with a richer, more complex flavor.

Use quality pepperoni – Thick-cut or deli-style pepperoni not only adds bold flavor but also holds up better during baking, giving each bite a meaty, satisfying chew.

Rest before slicing – Allow the pie to cool for 5–10 minutes after baking. This helps the cheese set slightly and makes for cleaner slices that hold their shape.

Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie

Ingredients

For the Pie

1 lb ground beef – lean or regular, depending on preference

½ lb Italian sausage – mild or spicy, based on taste

1 cup sliced pepperoni – about 20 slices

1 medium onion, diced – adds sweetness and depth

1 green bell pepper, diced (optional) – for freshness and color

2 garlic cloves, minced – savory aroma and flavor

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce – rich, tangy base

1 teaspoon dried oregano – classic Italian herb note

1 teaspoon dried basil – for balance and aroma

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – touch of heat

Salt and black pepper, to taste – essential seasoning

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided – melty and gooey texture

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional) – extra sharpness and richness

1 refrigerated pie crust or pizza dough – for the base

For Garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped – brightness and color

Crushed red pepper flakes or grated Parmesan (optional) – extra kick and finish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the oven and dish

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a deep 9-inch pie dish or similar baking dish and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the meat filling

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess grease.

Add diced onion, green bell pepper (if using), and garlic. Sauté for 3–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Stir in the tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if desired), salt, and black pepper. Let simmer for 5–7 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 3: Assemble the pie

Press the pie crust or rolled pizza dough into the prepared dish, covering the bottom and sides.

Sprinkle half of the mozzarella (and cheddar, if using) evenly over the crust.

Spread the meat filling evenly on top.

Layer the pepperoni slices across the filling.

Finish with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

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Step 4: Bake

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

For a crisp, browned top, broil for 1–2 minutes—watch carefully to prevent burning.

Step 5: Rest and serve

Allow the pie to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing.

Garnish with fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, or Parmesan, if desired.

Serve on its own, or pair with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a hearty meal.

Important Notes When Making Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie:

Crust flexibility – Both refrigerated pie crust and pizza dough work beautifully. Pie crust gives a flaky, buttery base, while pizza dough offers a chewier, bread-like bite. Choose based on the texture you prefer.

Cheese balance – While mozzarella provides creaminess and stretch, adding cheddar introduces sharpness. Adjust the ratio depending on whether you want a mild, melty finish or a bolder, tangier flavor.

Vegetable add-ins – Bell peppers and onions add freshness, but you can also fold in mushrooms, olives, or spinach for extra layers of taste and nutrition. Be sure to sauté vegetables first to prevent excess moisture.

Spice level control – Using mild sausage and omitting red pepper flakes keeps the pie family-friendly. For heat lovers, opt for spicy sausage and extra flakes for a bold kick.

Storage and reheating – Store leftovers tightly covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 10–15 minutes to restore the crisp crust and melty cheese, rather than microwaving which softens the crust.

How To Enjoy Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie After Cooking:

Serving and Pairing

Let it rest first – Allow the pie to cool for 5–10 minutes after baking. This helps the filling set, making it easier to slice cleanly without losing shape.

Cut into hearty wedges – Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice into large, pie-like portions. Each slice should showcase layers of meat, cheese, and crust.

Serve with sides that balance richness – A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or a light coleslaw can cut through the richness of the cheesy filling.

Bread lovers’ choice – Pair with warm garlic bread, breadsticks, or a rustic baguette to scoop up any saucy bits that escape onto the plate.

Drinks to Complement

Red wine – A medium-bodied red like Chianti, Zinfandel, or Merlot pairs well with the tomato sauce and savory meats.

Beer – Light lagers or amber ales balance the saltiness of the pepperoni and sausage, while a hoppy IPA can complement the spices.

Non-alcoholic options – Sparkling water with lemon, iced tea, or a citrus soda provide refreshing contrast.

Garnishing for Extra Flavor

Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil for brightness and color.

Add a dusting of Parmesan or Romano cheese for an extra savory note.

A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes brings a subtle kick for spice lovers.

Leftovers: Reinvent and Reuse

Reheat properly – Warm in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through to preserve the crust’s crispness.

Creative next-day use – Slice and serve as a sandwich filling between toasted ciabatta or reheat and top with a fried egg for a bold brunch dish.

Freezing option – Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven.

Nutrition Information

Per serving (based on 8 servings of the Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie, including beef, sausage, pepperoni, cheeses, crust, and sauce):

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can fully assemble the pie, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, simply bake as directed, adding 5–10 extra minutes since it’s starting cold.

What’s the best way to prevent the crust from getting soggy?

To avoid a soggy crust, you can blind bake the pie crust for 7–10 minutes before adding the filling. Another trick is to sprinkle a thin layer of shredded cheese directly onto the crust before layering the meat—this creates a barrier that helps keep the crust crisp.

Can I freeze this pie for later?

Absolutely! Bake the pie completely, let it cool, and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 45–55 minutes, or until hot in the center.

How can I make this recipe a little lighter or healthier?

Use lean ground beef or ground turkey, swap Italian sausage for chicken sausage, reduce the cheese to 1½ cups total, and choose a whole-wheat or cauliflower crust. You’ll still get great flavor but with less fat and fewer calories.

What are the best side dishes to serve with this pie?

Since this dish is rich and hearty, balance it with something fresh: a crisp garden salad with vinaigrette, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables. Garlic bread or breadsticks also pair beautifully if you want to lean into comfort food.

Do I need to cook the pie crust before adding the filling?

Not necessarily—if using a sturdy refrigerated crust, you can assemble directly. However, for extra crispiness, you can par-bake the crust for 7–10 minutes before layering in the meat and cheese. This helps prevent sogginess, especially if your meat mixture is juicy.

Can I use fresh pizza dough instead of pie crust?

Yes, pizza dough works wonderfully and gives a chewier, bread-like texture. Roll it out slightly thicker than a pie crust and press into the dish. Just keep in mind that pizza dough may require a longer baking time (add 5–8 minutes) to ensure the bottom is cooked through.

How do I make sure the meat filling isn’t too greasy?

After browning the beef and sausage, always drain off excess grease before adding tomato sauce and seasonings. If using higher-fat sausage, you may also blot with paper towels to keep the filling balanced and prevent excess oil from seeping into the crust.

Can I adjust the cheese layers without ruining the recipe?

Absolutely! The layering is flexible. Some people like to add cheese directly under the pepperoni for extra meltiness. Others mix a portion of the mozzarella into the meat sauce for even distribution. As long as you maintain enough cheese on top for browning, it will turn out delicious.

What if my pie starts browning too quickly on top before the crust is done?

If the cheese is getting too dark while the crust still needs time, loosely tent the pie with foil. This protects the top layer of cheese from burning while allowing the bottom crust and filling to finish baking evenly.