Are you ready to indulge in a meal that combines two of your favorites: deep-dish pizza and burgers? The Deep-Dish Pizza Burger Pie is the ultimate comfort food that satisfies every craving. I’ll guide you through each step, show you tasty ingredients, and share tips to make it perfect. Whether you’re cooking for friends or just for yourself, this dish will wow everyone. Let's dive into this delicious journey!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food Fusion: This recipe combines two beloved favorites, pizza and burgers, into one comforting and satisfying dish.
- Customizable Ingredients: You can easily modify the filling with your favorite pizza toppings, making it versatile for different tastes.
- Perfect for Sharing: This deep-dish pizza burger pie is great for gatherings, allowing everyone to enjoy hearty slices together.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (mix of red and green)
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 refrigerated pizza crusts (or homemade pizza dough)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Measurement Units
I use pounds (lb) for meat and cups for other ingredients. It is simple and clear. For spices, I use teaspoons and half teaspoons. This helps with flavor control.
Optional Add-Ins
You can add more veggies like spinach or olives. These boost flavor and nutrition. For heat, consider sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. They can spice up each bite. Want more cheese? Try adding provolone or cheddar for extra richness. Experiment with different meats, like turkey or chicken sausage, for a lighter pie.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating and Preparing
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step is key for a great crust. While the oven heats, get your pie pan ready. Grease the pan lightly to help the crust not stick.
Cooking the Meat Mixture
In a large skillet, mix 1 pound of ground beef and 1 pound of Italian sausage. Cook them over medium heat. Use a spoon to break up the meats. Cook until they are brown, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the grease to keep the pie from getting too oily. Add 1 chopped onion, 1 cup of diced bell peppers, and 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes. Stir often until the veggies are soft. Then, mix in 1 cup of pizza sauce, 2 teaspoons of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Let this simmer for 5 minutes. Set the mixture aside.
Assembling the Pizza Burger Pie
On a floured surface, roll out one pizza crust. Line the bottom and sides of your deep-dish pie pan with the crust. Press it into the corners. Spoon half of the meat mixture into the crust. Sprinkle half of the 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Repeat this layering with the rest of the meat and cheese. Roll out the second pizza crust. Place it on top of the filled pie. Pinch the edges to seal them. Cut small slits in the top to let steam escape. Brush the top with 1 beaten egg to make it golden. Bake the pie for 25 to 30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and crispy. Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Perfect Crust
To get a great crust, start with the right dough. I like to use refrigerated pizza crusts for ease. If you want a fresh touch, try making homemade dough. Here are some tips for a perfect crust:
- Flour Your Surface: Dust your work area with flour to prevent sticking.
- Roll Evenly: Roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. This helps it bake evenly.
- Press Firmly: Make sure to press the dough into the corners of the pan well. This keeps the filling from leaking.
Flavor Enhancements
You can make this dish even tastier with simple tweaks. Here are some ideas:
- Add Cheese Layers: Mix different cheeses like cheddar or provolone for more flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Fresh Herbs: Toss in fresh basil or oregano before baking for a fragrant touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serving this pie is half the fun! Here are some great ideas:
- Garnish: Top each wedge with fresh basil or parsley for color.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve with extra pizza sauce on the side for dipping.
- Pairing: A simple green salad goes well with this hearty pie.
Pro Tips
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality meats and vegetables to elevate the flavor of your pizza burger pie.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings like olives, pepperoni, or jalapeños for a unique twist.
- Allow to Rest Before Serving: Letting the pie cool for 10 minutes after baking makes it easier to slice and serve without spilling.
- Experiment with Crusts: Try using different types of crusts, such as whole wheat or gluten-free, to cater to dietary preferences.
Variations
Vegetarian Options
If you want to make this dish meatless, I have great news! You can swap the meats for tasty veggies or plant-based protein. Try using lentils, chickpeas, or a mix of beans. You can add more mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions for flavor. Eggplant or zucchini also works well. Just remember to cook them until soft before adding them to the pie.
Alternative Meats
For a twist on the flavor, you can change the meat. Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef. This makes the dish lighter but still full of taste. You can also use spicy chorizo instead of Italian sausage for a kick. Mixing in some bacon or pepperoni adds a fun twist. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
Different Cheese Choices
Cheese makes every dish better! While mozzarella is classic, you can mix it up. Try adding provolone or cheddar for a unique taste. For a richer flavor, goat cheese or feta crumbles work well. If you want a creamy texture, mix in some ricotta. You can even use a blend of cheeses for extra richness. The options are endless!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your Deep-Dish Pizza Burger Pie fresh, store it in the fridge. Use an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This helps to lock in flavor and moisture. Leftovers can last for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to let the pie cool completely before you store it. This prevents excess moisture from forming.
Reheating Instructions
When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is easy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a slice on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. This keeps the crust soft while warming the filling. Heat it for about 15 to 20 minutes. You can also use the microwave. Just place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1 to 2 minutes. This method is quicker but may make the crust less crispy.
Freezing for Later Use
If you want to save your Deep-Dish Pizza Burger Pie for later, freezing works great. First, let the pie cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. This helps to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, follow the reheating instructions above. Enjoy a tasty meal anytime!
FAQs
What is a Deep-Dish Pizza Burger Pie?
A Deep-Dish Pizza Burger Pie is a big, tasty meal that mixes two favorites: pizza and burgers. It has a thick crust filled with ground beef, Italian sausage, cheese, and veggies. The flavors blend well, making each bite rich and satisfying. This pie looks great, too, with its golden crust and colorful filling.
How to customize this recipe?
You can change up this recipe in many fun ways. Here are some ideas:
- Meats: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Veggies: Add spinach, olives, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Cheese: Try pepper jack for a spicy kick or a blend of your favorites.
- Spices: Mix in your favorite herbs or spices to make it unique.
- Sauce: Swap pizza sauce for barbecue sauce for a different flavor.
Can I use homemade pizza dough?
Yes, you can use homemade pizza dough! Making your dough gives you control over the taste and texture. Just follow your favorite dough recipe and prepare it before starting the pie. Roll it out thin for a crisp base, or leave it thick for a chewier bite. Homemade dough adds a personal touch to your Deep-Dish Pizza Burger Pie.
We covered the key steps to make a delicious Deep-Dish Pizza Burger Pie. You learned about the ingredients, how to cook each layer, and tips for a perfect crust. We also explored fun variations to suit your taste. Remember, you can store leftovers or freeze them for later! Have fun customizing and enjoying your pie. Try new ideas and make it your own. Cooking is all about experimenting and enjoying the process.
