Pizza Casserole Pie

Nutritional Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories: Approximately 560 kcal per serving
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
For the Crust:

1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade pie dough)
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Filling:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground sausage or Italian sausage, casing removed
1 cup pizza sauce
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup pepperoni slices
1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Toppings:

Extra mozzarella cheese for topping
Additional pepperoni slices for topping

Directions
Prepare the Crust

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Roll Out the Pie Crust: Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a deep pie dish. Ensure that the crust covers the edges of the dish. Brush the crust with olive oil to add flavor and help it brown nicely.

Pre-bake the Crust: Pre-bake the crust for about 8 minutes to ensure it is partially cooked before adding the filling. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

Make the Filling

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until they become translucent and fragrant.

Cook the Sausage: Add the ground sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula. Cook until the sausage is browned and crumbly. Drain any excess fat to prevent the filling from becoming greasy.

Combine Ingredients: Stir in the pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices, diced bell peppers, and sliced mushrooms. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook the mixture until everything is well combined and the cheese begins to melt.

Assemble the Pie

Fill the Crust: Spoon the prepared filling into the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly. Top with additional mozzarella cheese and pepperoni slices for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Add a Top Crust: If desired, cover the pie with another layer of pie crust. Seal the edges by pressing the top and bottom crusts together, and cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.

Bake

Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly and hot.

Cool and Serve: Let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the filling to set. Slice and serve warm, enjoying the melty cheese and savory flavors.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the joys of making a Pizza Casserole Pie is the freedom to customize it to your liking. Here are some variations and substitutions to consider:

Crust Options

Homemade Dough: For a homemade touch, prepare your own pie dough using flour, butter, salt, and water. This adds a personal touch and allows you to control the ingredients.
Whole Wheat Crust: Use a whole wheat pie crust for added fiber and a nuttier flavor. This option is great for those looking to incorporate more whole grains into their diet.
Gluten-Free Crust: Substitute with a gluten-free pie crust if you have dietary restrictions. There are many gluten-free options available that provide the same flaky texture as traditional crusts.

Filling Variations

Vegetarian Option: Skip the sausage and add more vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or eggplant. Use vegetarian pepperoni or additional mushrooms for a plant-based version.
Different Meats: Try using ground beef, turkey, or chicken instead of sausage for a different flavor profile. Each meat brings its own unique taste and texture to the dish.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat. This is perfect for those who enjoy a spicy twist to their meals.

Toppings and Extras

Cheese Lovers: Mix in other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or gouda for a richer flavor. A blend of cheeses can create a gooey, cheesy delight.
Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs such as fresh basil, oregano, or thyme. These can be sprinkled on top before serving for added aroma and taste.