When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the irresistible combination of pizza and pie. Enter the Pepperoni Pizza Pie—a delicious fusion of cheesy, meaty pizza flavors baked into a flaky pie crust.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or anytime you’re craving a hearty, satisfying meal. With its layers of seasoned ground beef, gooey mozzarella cheese, zesty pizza sauce, and crispy pepperoni, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Let’s dive into how to make this mouthwatering creation!
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Pie
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 20 slices pepperoni
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the pie bakes evenly and the crust turns golden brown. - Cook the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy. Season the beef with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for that classic pizza flavor. - Prepare the Pie Crust
Place the pre-made pie crust into a pie dish. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce on the bottom of the crust. This acts as the base layer and infuses every bite with tangy, savory goodness. - Layer the Ingredients
Add a layer of the cooked ground beef over the sauce. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top, followed by a few slices of pepperoni. Repeat these layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of cheese and pepperoni on top. - Bake to Perfection
Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-baking. - Cool and Serve
Allow the pie to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve. Slice into wedges and enjoy!
Pepperoni Pizza Pie
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: Pepperoni Pizza Pie
FAQ
1. Can I use a homemade pie crust instead of pre-made?
Absolutely! If you have the time, a homemade pie crust can elevate the dish. Just make sure to pre-bake it for 5-7 minutes before adding the filling to prevent a soggy bottom.
2. Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
4. Can I add other toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your Pepperoni Pizza Pie with toppings like mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, or olives.
Conclusion
The Pepperoni Pizza Pie is a creative and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of pizza in a comforting pie format. With its layers of seasoned ground beef, melty mozzarella cheese, and crispy pepperoni, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to love.
Whether you’re serving it for dinner or as a party appetizer, this recipe is sure to impress.
If you love creative twists on classic comfort foods, you’ll also want to check out our Guide to Making BBQ Brisket Melts—a delicious sandwich that combines smoky brisket with gooey cheese and tangy BBQ sauce.