The Deep-Dish Delight: A Hearty Hamburger, Beef Sausage & Pepperoni Pie
Introduction
Step aside, ordinary meatloaf and humble shepherd’s pie. This Deep Hamburger, Beef Sausage & Pepperoni Pie is a monumental celebration of savory, meaty goodness. Inspired by the hearty traditions of farmhouse cooking and the indulgent spirit of a loaded pizza, this recipe encases a richly seasoned triple-meat filling within a flaky, golden crust. It’s a comfort food masterpiece—deep, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a crowd on a cozy night in or as the star of any game-day spread. This isn’t just a pie; it’s a carnivore’s dream in a pastry shell.
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Ingredients
For the Crust:
· 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
· 1 teaspoon salt
· 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
· 6-8 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
· 1 tablespoon olive oil
· 1 large onion, finely chopped
· 3 cloves garlic, minced
· 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
· ½ pound ground beef sausage (or Italian sausage, casing removed)
· 1 cup (about 4 oz) pepperoni slices, quartered
· 3 tablespoons tomato paste
· 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, partially drained
· 1 teaspoon dried oregano
· 1 teaspoon dried basil
· ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
· ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
· Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
· 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
· 1 cup beef broth
· 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Binding & Topping:
· 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
· 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
· 2 large eggs, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
· 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
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Method & Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Using a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingertips, work the cold cubed butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining.
2. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a fork until the dough just begins to clump together.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, gather it into a ball, and flatten into a disk. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: Make the Filling
1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Increase heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef and beef sausage. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until well-browned and no pink remains. Drain excess fat if desired, leaving about 1 tablespoon for flavor.
3. Add the quartered pepperoni and cook for 2-3 minutes until it begins to crisp slightly.
4. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well.
5. Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of flour over the meat mixture and stir to coat evenly. Pour in the beef broth, bring to a simmer, and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture has thickened. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out about two-thirds of the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer and press it into a deep 9-inch pie dish or a springform pan, allowing the excess to hang over the edges.
2. Layer the filling: Spread half of the meat mixture into the crust. Sprinkle with half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Repeat with the remaining meat and cheeses.
3. Roll out the remaining dough to form the top crust. Place it over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal. Cut a few small slits in the center to allow steam to escape.
4. Brush the top crust generously with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle with grated Parmesan.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
1. Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is a deep golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the vents.
2. Let the pie rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to set, ensuring clean slices.
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A Brief History & Formation
This pie is a fusion of culinary traditions. The concept of a meat pie dates back centuries, found in various forms from the British steak and kidney pie to the Australian meat pie. The “deep-dish” style borrows from the iconic Chicago pizza, prioritizing a substantial, layered filling. The combination of hamburger, sausage, and pepperoni is a direct homage to the beloved “supreme” pizza topping trio. The formation is crucial: the sturdy, buttery crust acts as both vessel and contrast to the juicy, complex meat filling, while the layered cheese creates gooey pockets that bind everything together.
Nutritional Profile (Per Serving, serves 8)
· Calories: ~680
· Protein: ~32g
· Carbohydrates: ~35g
· Fat: ~45g (Saturated: ~22g)
· Fiber: ~2g
· Key Nutrients: Excellent source of protein, Vitamin B12, zinc, and calcium. Note: This is a hearty, indulgent dish moderate in sodium and saturated fat, best enjoyed as an occasional treat.
Benefits for the Soul (If Not the Waistline)
While this is an indulgent dish, its benefits are in the realm of comfort and community:
· Ultimate Satisfaction: High protein and rich flavors provide deep sensory satisfaction and curb cravings.
· Crowd-Pleasing: Designed to feed and delight a group, fostering togetherness.
· Versatile: Leftovers (if any!) reheat beautifully. It can be customized with added veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers.
For the True Pie Lovers
True lovers of this dish appreciate it in all its unapologetic, meaty glory. They know:
· The Crust is Key: A flaky, buttery, sturdy crust is non-negotiable. It must hold the hearty filling without becoming soggy.
· The Meat Trinity: The blend of beef’s richness, sausage’s herbs and spice, and pepperoni’s salty, slightly tangy kick is what makes it magical.
· The Perfect Slice: It’s eaten with a fork and knife, savoring each layered bite. It pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad to cut through the richness and a bold, hoppy beer or robust red wine.
Conclusion
The Deep Hamburger, Beef Sausage & Pepperoni Pie is more than a meal; it’s an event. It represents the joy of combining simple, robust ingredients with time-honored techniques to create something spectacularly comforting. From its golden, flaky dome to its steaming, savory heart, every element is designed for maximum flavor and satisfaction. It’s a testament to the idea that sometimes, more is more. So gather your fellow meat lovers, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this deep-dish delight—a pie that’s sure to earn a permanent spot in your repertoire of legendary comfort foods.