Italian Beef and Sausage Pie

This Italian Beef and Sausage Pie is a hearty, savory dish loaded with rich flavors. A golden, flaky pie crust cradles a filling of ground beef, Italian sausage, cheese, and a medley of herbs and spices. It’s the perfect comfort food for dinner or entertaining!

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Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade, if preferred)

For the Filling:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg (lightly beaten)

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon milk

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add ground beef, Italian sausage, and onion. Cook until browned, breaking apart the meat with a spoon.
   • Add garlic, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
   • Stir in marinara sauce and remove from heat. Let cool slightly.
3. Mix in Cheese:
   • Once the meat mixture has cooled slightly, stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Mix until combined.
4. Prepare the Crust:
   • Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim the edges if needed.
5. Assemble the Pie:
   • Spread the meat and cheese filling evenly into the prepared pie crust.
   • Brush the edge of the crust with beaten egg to help seal.
   • Roll out the second pie crust and place it on top of the filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal the pie.
   • Cut 4-5 slits into the top crust for ventilation.
6. Egg Wash:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Brush the top crust with the egg wash for a golden finish.
7. Bake:
   • Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
8. Cool and Serve:
   • Let the pie cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

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Notes

• Crust Substitute: If you prefer, use puff pastry or biscuit dough for the crust.
• Cheese Variations: Swap out mozzarella for provolone or add ricotta for extra creaminess.
• Make-Ahead: Assemble the pie in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

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Nutrition (Per Serving, Serves 6):

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 850mg
• Sugar: 4g
• Fiber: 2g