Italian Beef Sausage Pie: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Italian beef sausage pie, a symphony of savory flavors encased in a golden, flaky crust, is about to become your new weeknight obsession. Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm slice, the rich aroma of Italian herbs and spices filling your senses. This isn’t just a pie; it’s a culinary hug, a comforting embrace of deliciousness that will leave you craving more.

While the exact origins of savory pies are shrouded in history, the concept of encasing meat and vegetables in pastry dates back to ancient civilizations. The Romans, known for their culinary ingenuity, were early adopters, and the tradition spread throughout Europe, evolving with regional ingredients and tastes. This Italian beef sausage pie is a testament to that evolution, blending classic pie-making techniques with the bold flavors of Italian cuisine.

What makes this pie so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures – the crisp, buttery crust giving way to a juicy, flavorful filling. The combination of savory beef sausage, aromatic herbs, and a hint of cheese creates a taste sensation that’s both satisfying and comforting. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Serve it as a hearty main course, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or even pack it for a delicious picnic lunch. Get ready to experience a taste of Italy in every bite!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Crust:
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
• 1/2 cup ice water
• For the Filling:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound Italian beef sausage, casings removed (use a mix of sweet and hot for best flavor!)
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)

Preparing the Crust:

Okay, let’s start with the crust. I know, I know, making pie crust can seem intimidating, but trust me, it’s not as hard as it looks! Just follow these steps carefully, and you’ll have a flaky, delicious crust in no time.

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. This ensures the salt is evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is important for flavor and gluten development.
2. Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender (or your fingertips, if you’re feeling brave!), cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The key here is to work quickly and keep the butter cold. Small pieces of butter are what create those flaky layers in the crust.
3. Add the Ice Water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Continue adding water until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough crust.
4. Form the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently form it into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours). This chilling time allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.

Making the Sausage Filling:

While the crust is chilling, let’s get started on the sausage filling. This is where all the delicious flavor comes from, so don’t skimp on the ingredients!

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
2. Brown the Sausage: Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease. Nobody wants a greasy pie!
3. Add the Vegetables: Add the chopped bell peppers to the skillet and cook until they are slightly softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together. This simmering time is crucial for developing a rich, flavorful sauce.
5. Cool the Filling: Remove the skillet from the heat and let the filling cool slightly. You don’t want to put hot filling into the pie crust, as it can make the crust soggy.
6. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Mix well. This cheese mixture adds a creamy, cheesy element to the filling that complements the sausage perfectly.

Assembling and Baking the Pie:

Now for the fun part – putting it all together! This is where your pie starts to take shape and become a beautiful, delicious masterpiece.

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out half of the pie dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate. Trim and crimp the edges of the crust. You can use a fork to crimp the edges, or get fancy and use your fingers to create a decorative edge.
3. Add the Cheese Layer: Spread the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the bottom of the pie crust. This creates a barrier between the crust and the sausage filling, helping to prevent a soggy crust.
4. Add the Sausage Filling: Spoon the sausage filling over the cheese layer, spreading it evenly.
5. Top with the Second Crust: Roll out the remaining pie dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully place it over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal the pie. You can also cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking. This will help prevent the crust from puffing up too much.
6. Egg Wash (Optional): Brush the top of the pie crust with the lightly beaten egg. This will give the crust a beautiful golden-brown color.
7. Bake the Pie: Bake the pie for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, you can cover the edges with foil.
8. Cool and Serve: Let the pie cool for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to slice.

Tips for Success:

• Keep the Butter Cold: This is the most important tip for making a flaky pie crust. Cold butter creates steam as it bakes, which separates the layers of dough.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough crust. Mix the dough just until it comes together.
• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out.
• Use a Mix of Sweet and Hot Sausage: This adds a nice balance of flavors to the filling.
• Don’t Overfill the Pie: Overfilling the pie can cause the filling to spill out during baking.
• Let the Pie Cool Before Slicing: This allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to slice.

Variations:

• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the filling, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
• Use Different Cheeses: You can substitute other cheeses for the ricotta and Parmesan, such as mozzarella, provolone, or fontina.
• Make it Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicier pie.
• Use a Store-Bought Crust: If you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought pie crust.

Conclusion:

This Italian beef sausage pie isn’t just another recipe; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen in your kitchen! From the savory, perfectly seasoned sausage to the flaky, golden crust, every bite is a testament to simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. I know you might be thinking, “Another pie recipe?” But trust me on this one. The combination of the rich beef sausage, the tangy tomato sauce, and the creamy mozzarella creates a symphony of flavors that will have everyone begging for seconds.

Why is this a must-try? Because it’s incredibly versatile, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that feels like a weekend treat. It’s also a fantastic dish to bring to potlucks or gatherings – guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser! Plus, let’s be honest, who can resist a warm, comforting pie filled with delicious Italian flavors?

Looking for serving suggestions? I love serving this pie with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The acidity of the salad cuts through the richness of the pie perfectly. You could also offer a side of roasted vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus, for a more complete meal. For a truly Italian experience, serve it with a glass of Chianti or a crisp Pinot Grigio.

And the variations? Oh, the possibilities are endless! Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage. Spicy Italian sausage will add a kick, while sweet Italian sausage offers a milder flavor. You can also add vegetables to the filling, such as bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms. If you’re a cheese lover (and who isn’t?), try adding a layer of ricotta cheese or provolone for extra creaminess and flavor. For a vegetarian option, substitute the sausage with plant-based crumbles and add a variety of vegetables. You could even try using a different crust, like puff pastry, for a lighter, flakier texture.

Here are a few more ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

* Pizza Pie Variation: Add pepperoni slices and black olives for a pizza-inspired twist.
* Mediterranean Pie: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and spinach for a Mediterranean flair.
* Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for some heat.
* Creamy Dream: Stir in a dollop of mascarpone cheese for an extra decadent filling.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! I truly believe it will become a new family favorite. The beauty of this Italian beef sausage pie lies in its simplicity and adaptability. It’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a masterpiece. I can’t wait to hear about your experience! Please, please, please come back and leave a comment below sharing your thoughts, variations, and any tips you discover along the way. Did you add a special ingredient? Did you try a different crust? Did your family love it as much as mine does? Your feedback is invaluable and helps other readers discover new ways to enjoy this delicious pie. Happy baking! I hope you enjoy every single bite of this hearty and delicious meal.