There's nothing like the mouthwatering aroma of Italian Beef and Sausage Pie baking in the oven. This hearty, savory dish combines juicy beef, flavorful sausage, and gooey cheese, all encased in a golden, flaky crust that’s impossible to resist.
The first time I made this pie, it was for a family gathering where everyone had a different favorite dish. This recipe brought us all together with its bold flavors and satisfying textures. It's now a staple in our house, perfect for cozy nights or entertaining guests. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special.
Why You'll Love This Italian Beef And Sausage Pie
Get ready to add a new favorite to your recipe collection. This Italian Beef and Sausage Pie is the ultimate comfort food with a flavorful twist.
First, it’s packed with rich, savory flavors. The combination of seasoned ground beef and Italian sausage creates a filling that's both hearty and deeply satisfying. Add the blend of melted mozzarella and Parmesan, and you have a dish bursting with classic Italian charm.
Second, this pie is a time-saver. While it looks and tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen, the recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
It’s also a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for kids, adults, or picky eaters, the familiar flavors and comforting ingredients make this dish a guaranteed hit at the table.
Lastly, the recipe is incredibly versatile. You can tweak the filling to include vegetables, swap the crust for a low-carb alternative, or adjust the spices to suit your taste.
Ready to create your own masterpiece? Let’s explore the ingredients that bring this dish to life.
Ingredients Notes
This Italian Beef and Sausage Pie shines because of its thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in crafting its robust, comforting flavor.
The ground beef is the star of the show. Choose a lean blend (85/15 works well) to strike the perfect balance between flavor and texture without too much grease. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey can also work.
The Italian sausage adds depth and spice. Sweet or mild sausage is perfect for a family-friendly version, while spicy sausage delivers a bold kick for those who love heat.
For the crust, I recommend store-bought pie dough for convenience, but homemade dough will elevate the dish if you have the time. The flaky, buttery crust complements the savory filling perfectly.
Cheese takes this pie over the top. A mix of mozzarella and Parmesan offers melty, gooey goodness and a sharp, nutty finish. Feel free to sprinkle in some shredded provolone for an extra layer of flavor.
Finally, the seasonings – garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes – bring the classic Italian essence. Adjust the amounts to suit your palate, but don’t skip these staples for an authentic taste.
Before you start, grab a deep-dish pie pan and a rolling pin if you’re making your crust from scratch. Now it’s time to bring it all together!
How To Make This Italian Beef And Sausage Pie
Creating this Italian Beef and Sausage Pie is straightforward, even if you’re not a seasoned baker. Follow these steps to craft a pie that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and preparing your crust. If using store-bought dough, roll it out and gently press it into a deep-dish pie pan, leaving a little overhang. Set it aside while you prepare the filling.
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking them into small pieces as they cook. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, then drain any excess fat.
Reduce the heat to medium and stir in minced garlic, followed by dried oregano and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Let the mixture cook for about a minute, releasing the fragrant aromas.
Add a small can of tomato paste to the skillet and stir it into the meat. This not only adds rich tomato flavor but also helps bind the filling. Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
Spread half of the shredded mozzarella into the pie crust, then layer the meat mixture on top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the meat. Place the second pie crust on top, crimping the edges to seal. Cut a few small slits into the top to allow steam to escape.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Let the pie rest for 10 minutes before slicing – this helps the filling set for neat slices.
From start to finish, you’re looking at about an hour, with 30 minutes of active prep. The result is well worth every minute.
Storage Options
This pie is just as delicious the next day, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers. Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze, wrap the entire pie (or individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.
Reheating is easy – pop a slice in the microwave for a quick meal or reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for a crisp crust.
Variations and Substitutions
This Italian Beef and Sausage Pie is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are some ways to make it your own.
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling for extra vegetables and flavor.
- Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- Use a gluten-free pie crust to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
- Experiment with different cheeses – fontina or sharp cheddar can add a unique twist to the flavor profile.
- Skip the top crust and cover the pie with mashed potatoes instead for a fun, shepherd’s-pie-style variation.
No matter how you customize it, this Italian Beef and Sausage Pie is sure to impress. Give it a try and let your creativity shine!
PrintItalian Beef And Sausage Pie Recipe
Discover the ultimate Italian Beef and Sausage Pie recipe, a savory dish packed with flavorful beef, spicy sausage, and a flaky crust. Perfect for hearty meals, this Italian classic will become a family favorite!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 pre-made pie crusts
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 5 minutes until flavors meld.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Roll out one pie crust into a pie dish and fill with the meat mixture.
- Cover with the second pie crust, sealing the edges. Cut slits in the top for ventilation.
- Brush the crust with the beaten egg.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, use hot Italian sausage.
- Substitute marinara with homemade tomato sauce for a personalized touch.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
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