If you’ve ever dreamed of a pizza that feels like a warm hug from the Midwest, this Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe is your new go-to comfort food. Imagine a buttery, flaky pie crust loaded with juicy, seasoned ground beef, vibrant veggies, melty mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, and pepperoni slices all baked to bubbly perfection. This isn’t just pizza; it’s a hearty, crowd-pleasing feast that blends savory flavors and satisfying textures into one slice after slice of pure joy. Whether for a family dinner or a weekend treat, this Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe will quickly become a beloved classic in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe comes from using simple, wholesome ingredients that each bring their own special touch to the dish. Every element plays a part—from the rich ground beef to the colorful veggies and the cheesy goodness that binds it all together.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides a hearty, flavorful base with juicy texture.
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped: Adds a sweet sharpness and aroma when cooked.
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, chopped: Brings a subtle crunch and fresh color to the filling.
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce (or marinara sauce): The saucy heart of the pie, adding moisture and classic tomato flavor.
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning: Lifts the savory notes with fragrant herbs like oregano and basil.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors.
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade): The sturdy yet flaky foundation that holds everything together beautifully.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Offers gooey, stretchy texture that pizza fans adore.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp contrast and golden color on top.
- 1/4 cup sliced pepperoni: Classic pizza topping that adds a spicy, meaty kick.
- Optional toppings (sliced black olives, mushrooms, or favorites): Customize your pie to match your own flavor cravings!
How to Make Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Kick things off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the crust will bake evenly to a golden, crispy perfection once you assemble your pie.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Filling
Place a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef along with the chopped onions and green bell peppers. This step fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas while making sure the beef is cooked through and the veggies soften nicely. Don’t forget to drain excess fat to keep the pie from getting greasy.
Step 3: Add Sauce and Seasoning
Stir in the pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, plus salt and pepper to taste. Let this mixture simmer for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld into a rich and savory filling. When it’s ready, take the skillet off the heat and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Pie Crust
For that classic deep-dish feel, place your pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan. Press it gently into the sides and bottom so it forms a sturdy, even layer ready to hold all your delicious fillings.
Step 5: Layer the Pie
Start by spreading half of the mozzarella cheese evenly over the bottom of your crust—this helps form a cheesy barrier that keeps the crust nice and moist. Then spoon the savory beef mixture on top. Finish with the remaining mozzarella, shredded cheddar, and those all-important pepperoni slices for bursts of flavor throughout.
Step 6: Bake and Enjoy
Pop your assembled pie into the oven for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the crust looks golden and the cheese bubbles happily on top. Once out of the oven, give it a few minutes to settle before slicing and serving that heavenly Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe.
How to Serve Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes like torn basil leaves, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can take your Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe to the next level. These simple touches enhance the aroma and bring a pop of brightness that balances the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
While this pie is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad or garlicky roasted vegetables provides a refreshing contrast. A side of marinara dipping sauce is also a perfect match for those cheesy crust edges you won’t want to leave behind.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe straight from the pie pan for a rustic, homey feel. You can also plate each slice with a small ramekin of extra pizza sauce or sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan and cracked black pepper for a restaurant-style presentation that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftover Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe fully before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it just as tempting the next day.
Freezing
This pizza pie freezes beautifully! Wrap it securely in foil and place in a freezer bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-baked vibe, reheat slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through and the crust regains its crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the texture just right.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade pie crust for this recipe?
Absolutely! A homemade crust adds a lovely personal touch and you can control every ingredient. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the filling without becoming soggy.
What if I don’t have ground beef? Can I substitute it?
Yes, ground turkey or Italian sausage both work well and bring their own unique flavors. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly to complement the meat you choose.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the beef for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or plant-based crumbles. Load up on the veggies and cheese to keep it hearty and delicious.
Can I prepare this Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe ahead of time?
You can assemble the pie a few hours before baking and keep it chilled until you’re ready to bake. This helps the flavors meld even more and makes dinner prep easier.
How spicy is this pizza pie?
This recipe is mild and family-friendly by default, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or spicy pepperoni to turn up the heat as much as you like.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about making and sharing a homemade Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe with the people you love. It’s a dish that invites you to slow down, savor each gooey, cheesy bite, and enjoy the simple pleasures of good food. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and dive into this deeply comforting recipe—your taste buds will thank you for it!
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Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Deep-Dish Pizza Pie recipe features a savory ground beef filling with sautéed onions and green bell peppers layered in a pre-made pie crust, topped with a blend of mozzarella, cheddar cheese, and pepperoni. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a comforting and hearty twist on classic pizza, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Beef Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce (or marinara sauce)
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pie Assembly
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced pepperoni
- Optional toppings: sliced black olives, mushrooms, or any favorite pizza toppings
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the pizza pie.
- Cook Beef Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with chopped onions and green bell peppers until the beef is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender. Drain any excess fat to keep the filling less greasy.
- Add Sauce and Seasoning: Stir in the pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into the cooked beef mixture. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to blend the flavors well, then remove from heat.
- Prepare Pie Crust: Press the pre-made pie crust firmly into the sides and bottom of a 9-inch pie pan, creating a sturdy base for the filling layers.
- Layer the Pie: Spread half of the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on the bottom of the crust. Spoon the beef filling mixture over the cheese layer. Top this with the remaining mozzarella, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced pepperoni. Add any optional toppings you like.
- Bake: Place the assembled pie into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Allow the pizza pie to cool for a few minutes after baking to set. Slice into portions and serve warm for the best taste experience.
Notes
- You can customize the toppings based on your preference, such as adding mushrooms, olives, or other favorite pizza ingredients.
- Using a pre-made pie crust saves time, but homemade crust can enhance flavor and texture.
- Drain excess fat from the cooked ground beef to avoid a greasy filling.
- Letting the baked pie rest before slicing helps maintain its shape and prevents toppings from sliding off.
- If you prefer a crispier crust, bake the pie on a lower oven rack or use a pizza stone.
