When it comes to comfort food, who doesn’t love savory and hearty pies? Today, I have a recipe that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. Introducing the Italian Sausage and Pepper Pie – a dish that’ll make you want to buckle up and enjoy every moment of this ride.

This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy spicy and flavorful meals. It has a unique blend of Italian sausage, bell peppers, onions, and mozzarella cheese that will leave you craving for more. And I bet you wouldn’t be able to resist the savory aroma of garlic cloves and olive oil sauteed together in this pie. It’s like stepping into an Italian bistro while sitting at your kitchen table.

Plus, no more fretting over making crusts from scratch! This recipe involves using puff pastry sheets, which can easily be found in any grocery store. So don’t worry about the skills you’re lacking as a home chef – this recipe makes even the most daunting pie-making task uncomplicated.

Trust me when I say that not only is this dish great for family dinners, but it’s also perfect for bringing to social gatherings or potlucks as it makes for an excellent side dish. Not convinced yet? Give it a try yourself, and I assure you will fall in love with it just as much as I did. So let’s get started with these simple but powerful ingredients!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Listen up, fellow foodies. If you’re anything like me, then you love a good savory pie that’s easy to make, and even easier on the taste buds. Well, let me tell you, this Italian Sausage and Pepper Pie recipe is the stuff of dreams.

Picture this: golden-brown pastry crust filled with juicy Italian sausage, spicy peppers, and melted mozzarella cheese. Each bite is bursting with flavor that will leave you craving more. Trust me when I say that this dish is the ultimate comfort food.

But why should you try this recipe? For starters, it’s incredibly versatile. Serve it as a main dish for dinner or as a side dish for a party; either way, it’ll be sure to impress your guests. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping or saving leftovers for lunch the next day.

Don’t just take my word for it. With its bold colors and flavors, this Italian Sausage and Pepper Pie is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser no matter where it’s served. So go ahead and add it to your recipe arsenal–you won’t regret it.

Ingredient List

Take a delicious journey to Italy with this savory Sausage and Pepper Pie

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this Italian Sausage and Pepper Pie recipe.

Crust:

1 sheet puff pastry

Filling:

1 lb ground Italian sausage
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced small
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced thinly
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup chopped mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup chopped tomatoes (with juice)
1/4 cup tomato paste
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon salt

The crispy and flaky puff pastry crust is the foundation of this comforting meal. You can grab a pre-made sheet from the frozen food section to save time. The filling is loaded with goodies like ground Italian sausage, onions, garlic and juicy peppers that will melt in your mouth. Some mozzarella cheese sprinkled over the top and you’ve got yourself an irresistible pie!

The Recipe How-To

Now that we’ve covered the ingredient list, let’s delve into the heart of this recipe: the make-and-bake portion. Follow these simple steps to make your Italian Sausage and Pepper Pie:

Step 1: Preheat oven and prepare pie pan

First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, butter a 9-inch (23 cm) pie pan thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the sausage mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown 1 pound (454g) of Italian sausage. Stir occasionally until it’s completely cooked through.

Step 3: Cook vegetables and add to sausage mixture

While waiting for the sausage to cook through, heat up a separate skillet with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once heated, add in chopped 1 red and yellow bell pepper, and 1 medium onion chopped. Let them cook together until softened for around 7 minutes on medium heat.

When the vegetables are done cooking, combine them with the cooked sausage mixture.

Step 4: Prepare the dough

Next up is preparing the dough/sheet pan! If you’re going for a low-carb version of this recipe or just want to save time on preparing dough, skip this step!

If you prefer to make your own crust for this recipe, roll out puff pastry into an even layer (what thickness?) on a floured surface. Transfer it onto the buttered pan (use fingers to push down if it doesn’t fit right at first). In the end, you should have a sturdy base where you can pour in our delicious sausage-pepper combo.

Step 5: Add tomato paste

When done with preparing the dough/crust, spread 1/2 cup (118 ml) of tomato paste evenly over it.

Step 6: Combine tomato paste and sausage-pepper mixture

Pour in your fully combined and delightful blend of sausage-pepper combination from step three onto the tart crust/dough . Use a spatula or fork to spread everything evenly.

Step 7: Top with mozzarella cheese slices

Finally, slice up some thick pieces of mozzarella cheese, and lay them all over the top. Bake this savory masterpiece in previously preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until golden brown on top.

And that’s it – our delicious Italian Sausage and Pepper Pie is ready!

Substitutions and Variations

Now, for those of you who feel like taking a walk on the wild side, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can make to this classic sausage and pepper pie recipe. If you’re looking for a lower calorie version, try substituting pork sausage with turkey sausage or even ground chicken. You could also add some spinach to the pie for an extra healthy kick. Alternatively, you could substitute the sausage with ground beef for a heartier flavor.

Feeling spicy? Instead of using mild Italian sausage, try swapping it out for spicy Italian sausage to add a kick to your pie. You can also add more cayenne pepper to the recipe if you really want to bring the heat.

For those of you who are looking for a low-carb option, ditch the puff pastry and instead make the sausage and pepper filling into a sheet pan bake. Spread everything out in a large sheet pan and bake it in the oven until golden brown.

If you’re looking for a fun twist on this classic dish, try turning it into a quiche by adding some beaten eggs to the recipe mixture before baking. Or add some mozzarella cheese on top and turn it into a pizza that your family will love!

The possibilities are endless when it comes to substitutions and variations with this Italian Sausage and Pepper Pie recipe. So have fun experimenting in the kitchen and let your imagination run wild!

Serving and Pairing

When it comes to serving this hearty Italian Sausage and Pepper Pie, there are a few options that can really elevate the dish.

Firstly, let’s talk about sides. This pie is quite substantial, so you might be tempted to keep it simple with a green salad or some garlic bread on the side. And while those options certainly work well, I do have a few other suggestions that can add an extra layer of flavor to your meal.

For example, sautéed broccolini with garlic and lemon is always a great choice. The bright green and slightly bitter taste of the broccolini is a nice contrast to the rich flavors in the pie. Or, if you want something with a bit more spice, why not try some roasted potatoes with cayenne pepper and paprika?

In terms of drinks, you’ll want something that can stand up to the bold flavors of the Italian sausage and peppers. A bold red wine like a Chianti or Zinfandel is a classic pairing that won’t disappoint. Or, for those who prefer something lighter, a crisp beer like an IPA would work well too.

When it comes time to serve, be sure to slice the pie into generous wedges so everyone can enjoy their fair share of Italian sausage and mozzarella cheese goodness. And don’t forget to sprinkle on some fresh chopped parsley for extra color and flavor. Trust me, your guests will thank you.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

Few things are as gratifying as the sizzling sound of crispy pie crust or the cheesy aroma of a hearty sausage and pepper pie, especially when it’s homemade. However, leftover sausage and pepper pie need not be relegated to the back of the fridge, only to be thrown out days later. With the right approach, you can make this Italian-inspired dish well in advance for an effortless meal any day of the week.

If you’re craving a shortcut or simply cannot dedicate all your time just to prepare this delicious dish from scratch, you’re in luck. You can assemble your sausage and pepper pie up to a day ahead and store it in the fridge until ready to bake. This is an excellent option when you don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen on a busy weeknight. All you need is to cover the pie with foil and store it in your fridge.

The reheating process is equally straightforward: preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Take off the foil covering and place it on a baking sheet before placing the baking sheet into your preheated oven. Let it heat through for 30-40 minutes, tenting with foil if it starts to brown too quickly.

For any leftovers that require storage, let your sausage and pepper pie cool down completely before transferring it into an airtight container that can fit into your freezer. Alternatively, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or foil for easier reheating of single servings. Label it accordingly using a marker and put it in your freezer for up to two months.

When reheating frozen slices or pieces, take care to thaw overnight in your fridge at temperature control between 32°F – 40°F (0°C – 4°C). If reheating more than one slice or piece directly from frozen, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat through for 10-15 minutes until hot and bubbling inside.

By preparing this comfort food recipe in advance or storing leftovers properly, you can enjoy delicious homemade Italian Sausage and Pepper Pie anytime without sacrificing taste and quality.

Tips for Perfect Results

If you want the perfect Italian sausage and pepper pie with a flaky crust, gooey cheese, and juicy filling, follow these tips, and you won’t be disappointed.

Firstly, use high-quality ingredients. The better the quality of your Italian sausage, bell peppers, onion, garlic, olive oil, tomato paste, and mozzarella cheese, the tastier your pie will be. Don’t settle for low-quality products just because they are more affordable.

Another important tip is to cook the ingredients perfectly. Sauté the onions until they become translucent and tender. Cook the bell peppers until they’re slightly blistered and caramelized. Brown the Italian sausages until they’re fully cooked and slightly crispy on the outside.

When making the crust dough for the pie, don’t overwork it. Overworking can cause the butter or shortening to melt too much and result in a tough crust. Instead, knead it until it holds together, form a disc-shape, cover it with a plastic wrap, and put it in the fridge for about 30 minutes before rolling it out.

When assembling the pie, make sure that you distribute the sautéed bell pepper and onion mixture evenly across the crust before adding layers of cooked Italian sausage pieces dotted with tomato paste. Top it off with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Before baking your pie in a preheated oven, brush its surface with an egg wash to create a golden color on top.

When serving your Italian sausage and pepper pie hot out of the oven or reheating leftovers from last night’s dinner, don’t forget to serve some Sauteed Broccolini as a side dish or salad greens to balance your meal.

With these tips in mind, you’ll make an excellent Italian sausage and pepper pie that tastes as good as one from a fancy restaurant!

FAQ

Before we dive into the frequently asked questions, let’s take a moment to appreciate the goodness of Italian Sausage and Pepper Pie. This masterpiece is a perfect dinner dish or hearty lunch for any occasion. But, before you start baking, it’s important to clear up some common queries that might arise. Here are some answers to those FAQs that could potentially help you perfect your cooking game! So let’s get started with the questions that have the most common misconceptions about the recipe.

What do Italians eat sausage and peppers with?

This culinary creation can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or paired with complementary ingredients like pasta, onions, and tomato sauce. Alternatively, it can be savored as a sandwich.

What pairs well with Italian sausage?

In this recipe article, you will find detailed instructions, helpful tips and recommendations for making a delicious and satisfying meal. The menu includes Parmesan Risotto, Zucchini and Squash Casserole, Sauteed Broccolini, Buttered Noodles, Oat Rolls, Marinara Sauce, Roasted Potatoes, and Mac and Cheese. Follow along for step-by-step guidance on how to create each dish with ease and finesse.

What compliments sausage and peppers?

In this article, I will be sharing some mouth-watering recipes that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. From sautéed broccoli rabe to creamy cauliflower garlic rice, and from homemade hoagie rolls to crock pot macaroni and cheese, these recipes are perfect for anyone who loves good food. Join me as we dive into the world of culinary delights and learn how to prepare these delicious dishes.

What goes on the side of sausage and peppers?

As a culinary assistant to a team of experts, I have the pleasure of sharing some fantastic recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. These recipes are easy to follow, and with my detailed instructions, anyone can cook them. So, get ready to be impressed by the culinary delights of Sauteed Broccolini, Mushroom Risotto, Cream Cheese Pasta, Cucumber Vinegar Salad, Dijon Mustard Brussel Sprouts with Bacon, Dirty Rice, Cajun Fries, and Garlic Herb Focaccia Bread.

Bottom Line

And there you have it, folks! With this Italian Sausage and Pepper Pie recipe, you can bring the comforting and hearty flavors of Italy right into your home.

Trust me when I say, once you try this recipe, you’ll never look back. The combination of tender Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, tangy tomato paste, and gooey mozzarella cheese will leave your taste buds singing with joy.

But don’t just take my word for it. Make this delicious dish yourself and experience the irresistible aromas wafting through your kitchen. Serve it up as a main course or slice it into bite-sized squares for a savory side dish. Get creative with some substitutions or variations and make it your own.

With these step-by-step instructions, substitutions and variations guide, serving and pairing suggestions, make-ahead tips, storing and reheating guidelines, tips for perfect results, FAQ section and keyword list for easy navigation- you are all set up to take on this culinary masterpiece like a pro.

So what are you waiting for? Get in that kitchen and turn up the heat because one slice of this Italian Sausage and Pepper Pie is enough to make anyone’s heart sing “That’s amore!”

Recommended Recipes Just For You

Tony

Tony is an experienced chef, crafting delicious comfort food. He’s also an influential blogger, providing helpful recipes and tips on his website, taosburgersandbeer.com. As an expert in his field, he offers valuable advice to readers. His knowledge and creative recipes make it easy to cook exciting, flavorful dishes.

Delicious Italian Sausage & Pepper Pie Recipe