What To Know
- Add the chilled butter cubes to the flour mixture and use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Serve it warm with a side of your favorite salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sweet and savory contrast.
Craving a hearty, satisfying meal that’s both comforting and delicious? Look no further than a classic sausage and tomato pie. This dish is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for a family dinner, potluck, or even just a cozy night in. But how do you make this savory masterpiece? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with this easy-to-follow guide on how to make sausage and tomato pie.
Getting Started: Gathering Your Ingredients
Before you start whipping up this delicious pie, you’ll need to gather the essential ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup ice water
- For the Filling:
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Crafting the Perfect Pie Crust
The foundation of a great sausage and tomato pie lies in a delicious, flaky crust. Here’s how to make one:
1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Cut in the Butter: Add the chilled butter cubes to the flour mixture and use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the Water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
4. Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Building the Flavorful Filling
While the dough chills, it’s time to prepare the savory filling that will make your pie irresistible:
1. Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Combine the Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Assembling Your Pie Masterpiece
Now that the crust is chilled and the filling is simmering, it’s time to assemble your masterpiece:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
2. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle.
3. Transfer to a Pie Plate: Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges.
4. Pour in the Filling: Pour the simmering sausage and tomato mixture into the pie crust.
5. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the filling.
Baking to Perfection
With the pie assembled, it’s time to bake it to golden perfection:
1. Bake the Pie: Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
2. Let it Rest: Allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Serving with Love
Your sausage and tomato pie is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm with a side of your favorite salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sweet and savory contrast.
A Final Bite: A Recap of the Pie-Making Journey
Creating a sausage and tomato pie is a rewarding culinary journey. From the satisfying process of crafting the flaky crust to the aroma of simmering sausage and tomatoes, every step adds to the deliciousness of this classic dish. Remember, the key to a perfect pie is using fresh, high-quality ingredients and taking your time to savor the process.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Can I use a different type of sausage?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different sausage varieties, such as chorizo, spicy Italian sausage, or even breakfast sausage.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
A: Yes! Consider adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to your filling for extra flavor and texture.
Q: Can I make the pie ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the pie and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before baking.
Q: What can I do with leftover pie?
A: Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
Q: How long does this pie last?
A: Your sausage and tomato pie should last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
