Italian Beef And Sausage Pie Recipe

There's nothing quite like the hearty, savory aroma of Italian Beef and Sausage Pie fresh out of the oven. This comforting dish layers tender beef, zesty Italian sausage, and a rich, cheesy filling inside a flaky pie crust that’s irresistible.

I discovered this recipe while searching for a hearty meal to impress my family during the holidays. It’s since become a household favorite, perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to special occasions. Let's dive into what makes this pie so special.

Why You'll Love This Italian Beef And Sausage Pie

Get ready to meet your new favorite comfort food. This Italian Beef and Sausage Pie is the ultimate dish for meat lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike.

First off, it's the perfect make-ahead meal. Prepare it earlier in the day or even the night before, and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve. It's a lifesaver for busy days when you need a fuss-free dinner option.

This recipe also has an incredible balance of flavors. The spiced sausage brings a bold kick, while the beef provides a tender, hearty base. Combined with melty mozzarella and a hint of Parmesan, every bite is a burst of Italian-inspired goodness.

If you're cooking for a crowd, this pie is a guaranteed hit. The rich, cheesy filling and buttery crust make it a showstopper on the dinner table. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables.

Last but not least, this dish is highly customizable. You can tweak the spices, swap out the cheeses, or even experiment with different crust options. It’s the kind of recipe that never gets boring, no matter how many times you make it.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Italian Beef and Sausage Pie lies in its thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one contributes to the pie's rich and savory flavor profile.

The Italian sausage is the star of the show, bringing bold, spicy notes to the dish. I recommend using hot Italian sausage for a bit of heat, but you can opt for mild if you prefer a gentler flavor.

For the ground beef, choose a lean variety to keep the filling from becoming overly greasy. The beef adds a tender, hearty texture that balances the spice of the sausage.

A blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese creates the gooey, cheesy center. Mozzarella offers that classic stretch, while Parmesan provides a nutty, savory punch. Feel free to add a touch of ricotta if you want an extra creamy filling.

The pie crust forms the base and top of this dish. A store-bought crust works wonderfully for convenience, but if you have the time, a homemade crust adds an extra layer of buttery goodness.

Don’t forget the spices and aromatics: garlic, onion, oregano, and red pepper flakes. These simple ingredients pack a big flavor punch, making the filling truly irresistible.

Lastly, a sturdy pie dish is essential for this recipe. It ensures even cooking and holds all the delicious layers together.

How To Make This Italian Beef And Sausage Pie

Crafting this delicious Italian Beef and Sausage Pie is easier than you think. Follow these steps for a fail-proof result.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While the oven warms up, prepare your filling. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

Add the ground beef and Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking them into small crumbles as they cook. Season with oregano, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked, then drain any excess grease.

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked meat mixture with shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and a spoonful of marinara sauce for moisture. Stir until well combined.

Roll out your first pie crust and fit it into your pie dish. Spoon the filling evenly over the crust, pressing it down gently to ensure an even layer. Top with the second pie crust, crimping the edges to seal. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

Bake the pie for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and flaky. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing to allow the filling to set. Serve warm, and enjoy!

Storage Options

This Italian Beef and Sausage Pie stores beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.

To refrigerate, wrap the pie tightly in aluminum foil or store it in an airtight container. It will keep for up to 4 days in the fridge.

For longer storage, consider freezing the pie. Wrap it in plastic wrap and a layer of foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months.

To reheat, thaw the pie overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm slices in the microwave for a quick meal or reheat the entire pie in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Cheese Lovers' Delight: Add a layer of ricotta or provolone to the filling for extra richness.
• Vegetarian Twist: Swap the beef and sausage for a medley of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and zucchini.
• Crust Alternatives: Use puff pastry or even a biscuit topping for a unique spin on the classic pie crust.
• Gluten-Free Option: Replace the crust with a gluten-free alternative and ensure your marinara sauce is gluten-free.
• Heat Level: Adjust the spice by using sweet sausage or adding extra red pepper flakes for a fiery kick.

Don’t be afraid to get creative! This Italian Beef and Sausage Pie is a versatile canvas for your culinary imagination. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with new twists, you’re in for a treat.

Print