Cheesy Pizza Burger Pie

Ingredients:
For the Pie:
1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
1 small onion, diced
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 1/2 cups pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup pepperoni slices (optional, or any pizza topping you love like mushrooms, bell peppers, etc.)
1 package refrigerated pizza dough (or 2 if you want a double crust)
Optional Toppings:
Sliced pickles (for that "burger" flavor!)
Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Extra pizza sauce for serving
Instructions:
1. Prepare the crust:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to fit into a 9-inch pie dish (or a deep-dish pizza pan). You can also use a cast-iron skillet for extra flavor.
Press the dough into the pan, making sure it covers the bottom and up the sides.
2. Cook the burger filling:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Stir in the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture cook for another minute to combine the flavors.
Add the pizza sauce to the beef mixture and stir until fully combined. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to thicken slightly, then remove from heat.
3. Assemble the pie:
Pour the seasoned beef and sauce mixture into the prepared pizza dough-lined pan.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the beef mixture.
Add pepperoni slices (or any desired toppings) on top of the cheese layer.
4. Top with the second dough layer:
If you’re using a second pizza dough, roll it out to fit the top of the pie. Carefully place the dough over the cheese and toppings, and pinch the edges of the dough together to seal the pie.
If desired, cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape while baking.
5. Bake the pie:
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
If the crust is browning too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
6. Serve:
Let the pie rest for 5 minutes before slicing, so the filling has time to set.
Serve with optional toppings like sliced pickles for that burger flair or a drizzle of extra pizza sauce on the side.