A hearty dish that showcases the robust flavors of Italy, the Three Meat Italian Pie combines savory ground beef, spicy Italian sausage, and zesty pepperoni into a delicious pie that is sure to satisfy even the hungriest appetites. With a flaky crust and gooey mozzarella cheese, every bite brings a delightful melange of textures and tastes. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or even a cozy night in.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 servings
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450
- Protein: 28 grams
- Carbohydrates: 26 grams
- Fat: 26 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 800 mg
Why Make This Three Meat Italian Pie
The Three Meat Italian Pie is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort. The harmonious combination of meats presents a deeply satisfying flavor profile that appeals to meat lovers. With minimal prep and an easy cooking process, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover ingredients you might have around. Your family and friends will love the hearty filling topped with melted cheese, and you’ll enjoy the praises coming your way!
How to Make Three Meat Italian Pie
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 lb pepperoni
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pie crust
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will ensure your pie crust gets crispy and golden while allowing the filling to cook through.
Step 2: Sautéing
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, Italian sausage, chopped onion, and minced garlic over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the meat is browned. This step will not only brown the meat but also infuse the onion and garlic flavors into your filling.
Step 3: Mixing
After browning, drain any excess fat to keep the pie from becoming greasy. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the mixture for about 10 minutes until heated through and aromatic.
Step 4: Finishing
Roll out the pie crust and place it into a pie dish. Pour the savory meat mixture onto the crust, then layer the top with pepperoni slices. Finally, sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese, cover with a top crust or create a lattice pattern if you’re feeling fancy. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Three Meat Italian Pie
This delicious pie pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Serve with a dollop of marinara or pesto on the side for extra flavor. It also makes a fantastic dish at parties; simply cut it into small squares and serve as finger food.
How to Store Three Meat Italian Pie
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the pie for longer storage—up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in the oven to restore its crispness.
Expert Tips for Perfect Three Meat Italian Pie
- For extra flavor, consider sautéing the onion and garlic with a bit of olive oil before adding the meat.
- Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner pie.
- If you’re a fan of spice, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for an extra kick.
- Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or cheddar for varied flavor profiles.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the meats for sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini to create a veggie-packed delight.
- BBQ Style: Use barbecue sauce in place of the tomato sauce for a smoky twist.
- Cheesy Delight: Add ricotta cheese into the meat mixture for a creamier texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a store-bought pie crust? Yes, store-bought crusts can save time and are a great option if you’re short on time.
- What can I use instead of Italian sausage? You can substitute it with ground turkey or omit it entirely and double the amount of beef or other meat.
- How long does it take to freeze and thaw? When frozen, it typically takes around 24 hours to thaw in the refrigerator.
- Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to mix in bell peppers, spinach, or other veggies to boost nutrition.
- What if I don’t have mozzarella cheese? You can easily replace it with any cheese of your choice, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, as they melt beautifully.
Conclusion
The Three Meat Italian Pie is a cozy, flavorful dish that brings the delightful tastes of Italy right to your kitchen. With its rich filling and crispy crust, it’s no wonder it’s a favorite amongst families and friends. So, gather your ingredients and give this pie a try—it’s sure to become a beloved recipe in your home! Enjoy every slice!
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Three Meat Italian Pie
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Diet: Meat
Description
A hearty dish combining ground beef, spicy Italian sausage, and zesty pepperoni, topped with gooey mozzarella cheese in a flaky crust.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 lb pepperoni
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pie crust
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, Italian sausage, chopped onion, and minced garlic over medium heat until the meat is browned.
- Drain excess fat. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 10 minutes.
- Roll out the pie crust and place it in a pie dish. Pour the meat mixture on the crust, layer with pepperoni, and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
