
This deep hamburger sausage and pepperoni pie is what I make when my family asks for something hearty and fun at the same time Whether you are feeding a hungry crowd or treating yourself to ultimate comfort food this dish brings together everything you love about pizza layered inside a buttery flaky crust
The first time I baked this pie everyone devoured it with big smiles and now it is often the centerpiece of our family movie nights
Ingredients
- Pillsbury ready bake pie crust: ensures a tender base and crisp golden top look for a crust with no cracks for best results
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: melts smoothly and holds everything together freshly shredded cheese works best because it melts more evenly
- Ground beef: brings rich flavor and hearty texture choose beef with no more than twenty percent fat for a balanced filling
- Italian sausage (optional): adds savory depth and a touch of spice pick sausage with visible herbs for maximum flavor
- Pepperoni slices: provide classic pizza taste aim for thin sliced pepperoni so it layers and cooks evenly
- Pizza sauce or marinara: gives a tangy tomato base your favorite jar from the store or homemade sauce both work
- Shredded cheddar or provolone cheese: adds a sharp cheesy bite which makes the top layer extra gooey
- Italian seasoning: brings herby warmth and aroma look for a blend with oregano thyme basil and rosemary
- Garlic powder: infuses a gentle savory kick and keeps prep easy
- Red pepper flakes (optional): offer a subtle heat perfect if you love a little spice
- Melted butter: brushed on the top crust helps it bake up golden and fragrant go with unsalted butter to control the salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Meats:
- Cook ground beef and Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat for about eight to ten minutes until both are browned and crumbly Use a spoon to break up the meat as it cooks so it is evenly browned Drain off excess fat well to avoid a greasy filling
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to four hundred twenty five degrees Fahrenheit Roll out one pie crust to fit a deep dish pie pan or similarly sized baking dish Make sure there are no rips in the dough Press it into the bottom and up the sides of your dish
- Assemble the Layers:
- Scatter half of the shredded mozzarella across the pie crust base Add an even layer of the cooked beef sausage mixture then nestle in half of the pepperoni slices Spoon the pizza sauce or marinara evenly over the entire surface Sprinkle on the Italian seasoning garlic powder and if desired red pepper flakes for heat
- Add the Final Toppings:
- Top with remaining mozzarella plus all the shredded cheddar or provolone Layer the rest of the pepperoni so it browns nicely in the oven
- Seal and Butter the Crust:
- Place the second crust over the pie pinching the edges to seal in the filling Use a fork to crimp if you like Brush the top with melted butter mixed with a bit of garlic powder for an extra aromatic touch
- Bake to Perfection:
- Slide into the oven and bake for about twenty to twenty five minutes until the crust is deep golden brown and the cheeses bubble Let it cool for at least five to eight minutes so the filling sets and slices cleanly

Pepperoni is a favorite in my house because it gets crisp at the edges in the oven My kids love helping layer the pepperoni and seeing the cheesy bubbles through the crust
Storage Tips
Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days It reheats well in the oven wrapped in foil at three hundred fifty degrees or in the microwave for a quick lunch The crust stays flakier if you use the oven
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap in ground turkey or chicken for the beef and sausage If you prefer a spicier flavor go with hot Italian sausage Add veggies like sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra nutrition and texture If you are out of pie crust substitute with a prepared pizza dough pressed into your baking pan
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices with a simple green salad tossed in vinaigrette or a bowl of tomato soup For an extra indulgent meal pair it with crunchy garlic bread This pie is a hit at casual parties and game days just cut into small wedges for easy hand held bites

Cultural and Family Background
This recipe mashes up two American classics deep dish pizza and pot pie which always hits home at my table I first made it for a family movie night and now it shows up whenever we want a fun twist for dinner or a break from standard pizza
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use homemade pie crust instead of ready-made?
Yes, homemade crust adds a personal touch. Ensure it's thick enough to hold the hearty filling.
- → What cheeses work best for this pie?
Mozzarella and cheddar or provolone create that classic melt and stretch. Feel free to try Monterey Jack or a blend.
- → Is the Italian sausage optional?
Absolutely! You can omit it or swap with ground turkey or plant-based alternatives as desired.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
A crisp green salad or warm garlic bread complement the rich, savory pie beautifully.
- → How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.
- → Can red pepper flakes be left out?
Yes, red pepper flakes are optional and can be omitted or adjusted for your preferred spice level.