Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the Meat
   In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and sausage. Break up the meat with a spatula as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat. Add the diced onion and garlic and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
3. Add Seasonings and Pepperoni
   Stir in the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and chopped pepperoni. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
4. Prepare the Pie Crust
   Unroll one of the pie crusts and fit it into a 9-inch deep-dish pie dish. Press gently along the bottom and edges to ensure it fits snugly. Use a fork to prick a few holes in the bottom of the crust to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
5. Assemble the Pie
   Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce on the bottom of the pie crust. Then, layer half of the cooked meat mixture over the sauce. Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses over the meat. Add another layer of pizza sauce, followed by the remaining meat mixture, and top with the remaining cheese.
6. Cover and Bake
   Place the second pie crust on top of the filled pie. Pinch the edges of the crusts together to seal the pie. Use a knife to make a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
7. Cool and Serve
   Let the pie cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired and serve hot.

Tips for the Best Deep Hamburger Sausage & Pepperoni Pie

1. Meat Variations: You can substitute the ground beef and sausage with other meats, like turkey or chicken, for a leaner option. You can also add other favorite pizza toppings like mushrooms or bell peppers.
2. Cheese Options: Feel free to swap out mozzarella for other cheeses like provolone or fontina for added flavor. Adding a bit of cream cheese to the mix can create a creamier filling.
3. Pie Crust: If you prefer a homemade crust, you can easily make one from scratch using flour, butter, and water. Alternatively, store-bought crusts work just as well for a quick and easy meal.
4. Serving Suggestions: Serve with a simple side salad, some garlic bread, or a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping.