Cheesy Pizza Pot Pie: A Comforting Twist on Two Classic Favorites
When pizza meets pot pie, something magical happens. This ingenious fusion dish combines the hearty comfort of a traditional pot pie with the irresistible flavors of everyone’s favorite Italian classic. The Cheesy Pizza Pot Pie features a golden, flaky crust filled with savory pizza sauce, melted cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings, all baked to perfection in a cozy casserole format. If you’re looking for a unique dinner option that will wow your family or guests, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite. While it may seem like an unusual combination, this dish delivers the best of both worlds: the satisfying depth of a pot pie with the familiar, crowd-pleasing taste of pizza.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Pizza dough (homemade or store-bought) | 2 pounds |
| Pizza sauce | 2 cups |
| Mozzarella cheese, shredded | 3 cups |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1 cup |
| Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled | 1 pound |
| Pepperoni slices | 4 ounces |
| Bell peppers, diced | 1 cup |
| Mushrooms, sliced | 1 cup |
| Onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Egg (for egg wash) | 1 large |
| Water | 1 tablespoon |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparation
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, you can start preparing your ingredients. If you’re interested in other cheesy comfort foods, check out these delicious cheeseburger quesadillas for future reference.
2. Prepare the Filling
– Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat
– Add diced onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes)
– Add sliced mushrooms and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes
– Remove vegetables from skillet and set aside
– In the same skillet, cook Italian sausage if not already done
– Drain any excess grease
3. Assemble the Base
– Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish
– Divide pizza dough into two portions (about 60/40)
– Roll out the larger portion to fit the bottom and sides of the baking dish
– Press dough into the dish, ensuring it goes up the sides
– Prick the bottom several times with a fork
4. Layer the Ingredients
– Spread 1 cup of pizza sauce evenly over the bottom crust
– Sprinkle 1½ cups of mozzarella cheese
– Add the cooked sausage and vegetables
– Layer half the pepperoni slices
– Add remaining sauce
– Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and ½ cup of Parmesan
5. Create the Top Crust
– Roll out the remaining dough to fit the top of the dish
– Place it over the filling
– Crimp the edges to seal with the bottom crust
– Cut several slits in the top for steam to escape
6. Final Touches
– Whisk together egg and water to create an egg wash
– Brush the top crust with egg wash
– Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning
– Place remaining pepperoni on top
7. Baking
– Bake for 35-40 minutes until crust is golden brown
– If the top browns too quickly, cover with foil
– Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving
For those interested in gluten-free options, you might want to check out this gluten-free alternative that can inspire modifications to this recipe.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Pizza Pot Pie is the ultimate comfort food that brings together two beloved dishes in one spectacular meal. The combination of flaky crust, melted cheese, and savory fillings creates an unforgettable dining experience that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any special occasion. While it requires some time and effort to prepare, the end result is well worth it. For more creative fusion recipes, you might enjoy these unique quesadilla variations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the pot pie up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for 30 minutes before putting it in the oven. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Can I freeze this pizza pot pie?
Absolutely! You can freeze it either before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, wrap well in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before baking. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely, wrap well, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven until heated through.
What if my crust browns too quickly?
If you notice the crust browning too fast while the inside isn’t fully cooked, simply cover the top with aluminum foil and continue baking until the filling is hot and bubbly. This will prevent the crust from burning while allowing the inside to cook completely.
