If you’re craving a comforting dish that bursts with rich flavors, look no further than this Three-Meat Italian Pie Recipe. This savory pie combines ground beef, Italian sausage, and pepperoni with creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella for a truly indulgent experience. Every bite offers a delightful medley of Italian-inspired tastes wrapped in a flaky crust, making it perfect for family dinners or sharing with friends. The hearty texture and the blend of cheeses bring a warmth and satisfaction that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients together for this Three-Meat Italian Pie Recipe is a breeze, yet each one plays an important role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish so irresistible.
- Refrigerated pie crust (or homemade): This provides the golden, flaky base that holds all the savory goodness together.
- 1/2 lb ground beef: A juicy, hearty protein that forms the foundation of the meat filling.
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage (casings removed): Adds bold, spiced flavor that’s unmistakably Italian.
- 1/4 lb sliced pepperoni: For that punch of cured, smoky taste and a pop of color throughout the pie.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Brings sweetness and depth when sautéed along with the meats.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the filling with aromatic warmth and a touch of zing.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and balances the savory heat with mild richness.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, creating a stretchy texture and gooey layer.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Imparts a sharp, nutty flavor that intensifies the Italian character.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the filling together, ensuring every slice holds firm.
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning: Brings classic herbaceous notes of oregano, basil, and thyme.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the dish.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to round out the seasoning.
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional): Provides a fresh, bright garnish to finish the pie elegantly.
How to Make Three-Meat Italian Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust and Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, gently press the refrigerated pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, making sure it fits snugly along the edges. This step sets the foundation for your pie, so take a moment to ensure the crust is even and ready to hold all that delicious filling.
Step 2: Cook the Meats and Aromatics
Next, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef, Italian sausage, and chopped onion. Cook everything until nicely browned and fully cooked, breaking the meat apart with a spoon to get that perfect crumble. When the meat is nearly done, toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute to release that irresistible fragrance. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease before letting the mixture cool slightly—this keeps the pie from getting soggy.
Step 3: Mix the Cheesy Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, eggs, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This combination creates a creamy, flavorful base that binds your pie’s filling together beautifully. Gently fold in the cooked meat mixture and sliced pepperoni until everything is evenly incorporated. You’ll love how the variety of textures come together in this step—it’s truly the heart of the Three-Meat Italian Pie Recipe.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Pie
Pour your rich, meaty filling into the prepared pie crust and smooth the surface with a spatula. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and the top develops a gorgeous golden-brown color. Allow the pie to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing—this little wait helps the filling settle, making cleaner slices and an overall better eating experience.
How to Serve Three-Meat Italian Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of lively color and subtle herbal brightness. If you want to add extra flair, a dusting of grated Parmesan on each slice will boost the savory punch. Fresh basil leaves also work beautifully as a garnish, highlighting the Italian flair.
Side Dishes
This Three-Meat Italian Pie Recipe pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing sides. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pie, balancing your meal perfectly. For a more traditional choice, serve it alongside warm marinara sauce—perfect for dipping each bite and adding extra zest.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the pie as individual mini-tarts by dividing the filling into smaller pie crusts; this makes for a fun appetizer or party dish. Alternatively, slice it into wedges and arrange on a wooden board for casual family-style dining. Don’t be afraid to get creative by adding roasted red peppers or spinach inside the filling for a delightful twist on this classic recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pie will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for quick reheat lunches or dinners the next day.
Freezing
The Three-Meat Italian Pie Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap whole pies or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. Frozen pies can be stored for up to 2 months, giving you a delicious homemade meal ready whenever you need it.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers, reheat the pie slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through and the crust is crisp again. Microwaving works too but can soften the crust slightly, so if you have time, the oven is the way to go for that fresh-baked feel.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade pie crust for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade pie crust adds a personal touch and can be tailored to your preference, whether flaky, buttery, or whole wheat. Just make sure it fits well into the pie dish and is rolled out evenly to support the filling.
Is it possible to substitute the meats in the Three-Meat Italian Pie Recipe?
Yes, you can swap out any of the meats with your favorites—like ground turkey for a leaner option or chorizo for a spicier kick. Just keep the total meat quantity about the same to maintain the right filling consistency.
Can I prepare this pie in advance?
You sure can! Assemble the pie and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a perfect recipe for busy days when you want a ready-to-go meal that just needs to bake.
What should I serve with this pie for a full meal?
Pair the pie with fresh salad greens tossed in a tangy dressing or steamed seasonal vegetables for a balanced plate. A side of marinara sauce adds an extra burst of flavor and complements the Italian spices beautifully.
How can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Feel free to fold in cooked chopped spinach, roasted red peppers, or sautéed mushrooms with the meats before mixing with the cheeses. This is an easy way to sneak in extra veggies while keeping all the hearty flavors intact.
Final Thoughts
This Three-Meat Italian Pie Recipe is one of those meals that just feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s hearty, cheesy, and bursting with classic Italian flavors that bring everyone to the dinner table with a smile. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, give this recipe a try—you might just find it becomes your new favorite go-to dish.
Print
Three-Meat Italian Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Three-Meat Italian Pie is a hearty and savory dish combining ground beef, Italian sausage, and pepperoni with creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella cheeses. Baked in a flaky pie crust and seasoned with Italian herbs, this comforting meal is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. Enjoy the robust flavors of Italian-American cuisine in a convenient, sliceable pie.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 refrigerated pie crust (or homemade)
Meat Mixture
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1/4 lb sliced pepperoni
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Cheese and Seasoning
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Press the refrigerated pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish evenly, making sure it covers the sides well. Set aside while preparing the filling.
- Cook Meat Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, Italian sausage, and finely chopped onion. Cook them together, stirring and breaking the meat apart, until fully browned and cooked through. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. Drain any excess grease from the pan and allow the meat mixture to cool slightly.
- Mix Cheese Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, eggs, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Meat and Cheese: Fold the cooled meat mixture and the sliced pepperoni into the cheese mixture carefully until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Fill Pie and Bake: Pour the combined filling into the prepared pie crust and gently smooth the top with a spatula. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the filling is set in the center and the top is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow the filling to set further. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Slice and serve the pie warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- This savory pie can be made ahead of time and reheated for convenience.
- For additional flavor and nutrition, consider adding chopped spinach or roasted red peppers to the filling.
- Serve with a side salad or marinara sauce for dipping to complement the rich flavors.
