There’s nothing quite like the hearty aroma of Italian Beef and Sausage Pie wafting through your kitchen on a cool evening. With layers of flavorful meat, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese nestled inside a golden, flaky crust, this dish is the ultimate comfort food.
I discovered this recipe during a trip to Chicago, where Italian beef reigns supreme. Combining the best of Italian sausage and slow-cooked beef, this pie quickly became a family favorite for special occasions and weeknight dinners alike. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so irresistible.
Why You'll Love This Italian Beef and Sausage Pie
Get ready to fall in love with this indulgent take on a classic meat pie. It’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with authentic Italian flavors.
First off, it’s incredibly easy to prepare despite its gourmet appearance. You don’t need hours in the kitchen to create this masterpiece—it’s ready in about an hour, start to finish. Perfect for busy families or anyone craving a comforting meal without the hassle.
This recipe is also endlessly versatile. You can make it ahead, freeze it for later, or customize the filling to suit your preferences. It’s a lifesaver for meal planning and a great way to use up leftovers.
And let’s not forget the wow factor. From the bubbling cheese to the flaky crust, this pie looks as amazing as it tastes. Serve it to guests, and you’re guaranteed compliments all around.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this Italian Beef and Sausage Pie is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients Notes
The secret to this dish lies in its carefully selected ingredients, each bringing something special to the table. Let’s break down the essentials.
Italian sausage adds a burst of flavor and spice. Opt for mild or hot, depending on your taste preferences. Removing the casings and crumbling it ensures even distribution throughout the pie.
Cooked beef is the star of the show. Using thinly sliced Italian beef gives the filling its signature texture and taste. Leftover roast beef works beautifully if you have it on hand.
Tomato sauce ties everything together with a rich, savory base. For the best results, use a high-quality marinara sauce or make your own for a personal touch.
Mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses create the perfect creamy, melty topping. Grating fresh Parmesan adds a nutty, salty flavor that complements the mozzarella’s mildness.
The pie crust is your foundation. A buttery, flaky crust is ideal, but a pre-made one works just as well for convenience. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own from scratch.
You’ll also need a few pantry staples like garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning to enhance the overall flavor. A deep-dish pie pan or cast-iron skillet will ensure your pie bakes evenly and looks spectacular.
How To Make This Italian Beef and Sausage Pie
Making this pie is a straightforward process that delivers incredible results. Here’s how to bring it all together.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepping your ingredients. If you’re using leftover beef, slice it thinly, and set it aside. Crumble and cook the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Remove the sausage and set it aside, keeping any rendered fat in the pan for extra flavor.
In the same skillet, sauté diced onion and minced garlic until softened and fragrant. Add the cooked beef and sausage back into the pan, stirring in your favorite tomato sauce and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
Roll out your pie crust and press it into your pie pan, trimming any excess dough. Spoon the meat mixture into the crust, spreading it evenly. Top with shredded mozzarella and a generous sprinkling of Parmesan.
Cover the filling with the second layer of pie crust, sealing the edges with a crimp or press. Cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Let the pie cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to set, making it easier to serve.
Storage Options
This pie is as convenient as it is delicious. Here’s how to store it for maximum freshness.
If you have leftovers, wrap individual slices tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For a longer storage option, freeze the slices in airtight containers. They’ll keep for up to 3 months and reheat beautifully.
To reheat, place slices in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, cover with foil to prevent the crust from over-browning.
For those who love to plan ahead, assemble the pie and freeze it unbaked. When you’re ready to enjoy it, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 15 minutes to the cooking time.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to get creative. Here are some ideas to inspire you.
Swap out the Italian sausage for spicy chorizo or mild breakfast sausage for a different flavor profile.
Add veggies like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the filling for a boost of nutrients and texture.
Try a blend of cheeses, such as provolone, fontina, or sharp cheddar, for a unique twist on the classic topping.
For a lighter option, use a whole-wheat crust or substitute the top crust with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and Parmesan.
Experiment with herbs like fresh basil, oregano, or parsley to brighten up the flavor and add a pop of color.
This Italian Beef and Sausage Pie is a celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures. Whether you stick to the original recipe or make it your own, one thing’s for sure—it’s destined to become a favorite in your kitchen!
PrintItalian Beef And Sausage Pie Recipe
This Italian Beef and Sausage Pie recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish loaded with savory beef, sausage, gooey cheese, and aromatic Italian spices. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish delivers classic Italian comfort food right to your table.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casing removed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef, sausage, onion, and garlic over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes and set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
- Roll out one pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan. Fill with the meat mixture and top with the ricotta cheese mixture.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the filling. Cover with the second pie crust and crimp edges to seal.
- Cut small slits on top to release steam. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
- Let the pie rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Use store-bought marinara for convenience or homemade for a personal touch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
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