Italian Beef and Sausage Pie Recipe
Introduction
Today, I want to share with you my favorite recipe for Italian Beef and Sausage Pie. This dish has been a part of my family for generations, and it never fails to impress. The combination of juicy beef, flavorful sausage, and a buttery crust creates a mouthwatering dish that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the crust:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
– 1/4 cup ice water
For the filling:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 pound Italian sausage
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Steps by Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt for the crust. Add the chilled butter and use a pastry cutter or your hands to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 3: Gradually add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 4: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell peppers. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
Step 5: Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Stir in the diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 6: Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Press the dough into the dish, trimming any excess.
Step 7: Spread the cooked meat mixture evenly into the pie crust. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Keto and Low Carb Variations
If you’re following a keto or low carb diet, you can easily adapt this recipe to fit your dietary needs. Instead of using a traditional pie crust made with all-purpose flour, you can make a crust using almond flour or coconut flour. Simply substitute the all-purpose flour in the crust recipe with your preferred low carb flour alternative. The filling ingredients remain the same, so you can enjoy the delicious flavors of Italian Beef and Sausage Pie while staying on track with your diet.
Tips
– Make sure the butter for the crust is chilled and cubed. This will help create a flaky and tender crust.
– Don’t overmix the dough for the crust. Mix it until it just comes together, as overmixing can result in a tough crust.
– You can customize the filling by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own.
– Serve the pie with a side of marinara sauce or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Conclusion
Italian Beef and Sausage Pie is a classic dish that brings together the flavors of Italy in a delicious and hearty pie. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of savory beef, flavorful sausage, and a buttery crust is simply irresistible. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of Italy in your own kitchen.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Simply follow the recipe instructions until Step 7, then cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze any leftovers of the Italian Beef and Sausage Pie. Allow the pie to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight and then bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, you can experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste. Cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses would all work well in this recipe.
