Italian pie

Italian Pie is a savory, flavorful dish that blends the delicious flavors of Italian cuisine into a hearty pie. It’s typically made with layers of meat, vegetables, cheese, and sometimes pasta, all baked in a flaky crust. Here’s an easy recipe for an Italian Pie that you can prepare and enjoy with your family!

Ingredients:

• For the Crust:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)

  • 4-6 tbsp ice water

• For the Filling:

  • 1 lb ground Italian sausage (or a combination of beef and sausage)

  • 1/2 cup onion, chopped

  • 1 clove garlic, minced

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano

  • 1/2 tsp dried basil

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1 egg (for egg wash)

  • Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Make the Pie Crust:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.

• Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your hands to mix the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

• Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing just until the dough begins to come together. You may not need all the water.

• Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it a few times until smooth. Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a disk. Wrap each disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling:

• In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and crumbled. Remove any excess fat.

• Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

• Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes and then remove from heat.

• In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Add the sausage mixture and mix until well combined.

3. Assemble the Pie:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Roll out one portion of the dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough into the pie pan, pressing it into the bottom and sides.

• Spoon the sausage and cheese mixture into the prepared pie crust.

• Roll out the second portion of dough and place it on top of the pie to cover the filling. Trim the excess dough and crimp the edges to seal the pie.

• Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

4. Bake:

• Beat the egg and brush it over the top crust to create a golden finish.

• Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.

5. Cool and Serve:

• Let the pie cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

• Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips:

• Add Vegetables: You can add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the filling for extra flavor and texture.

• Cheese Variations: You can use other Italian cheeses like provolone, fontina, or gouda for a twist.

• Leftovers: This pie reheats beautifully in the oven and can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

This Italian Pie is a comforting, satisfying meal that’s perfect for dinner, gatherings, or meal prep. With its layers of sausage, cheese, and marinara sauce, it’s like having a pizza and a pie in one! Would you like any variations or more details on ingredients?