Hot Italian Sausage And Spinach Pie
A flavorful savory pie combining spicy Italian sausage, creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and spinach, perfect for family dinners or special occasions with rich, cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hot Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat.
- Drain the sausage and allow it to cool slightly.
- Cut the cooked sausage into small pieces.
- In a small bowl, mix the reserved egg yolk with 1 teaspoon water to create an egg wash.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta, grated mozzarella, and sausage pieces.
- Pour the mixture into a prepared pie crust.
- Cover with an additional crust on top and brush with the egg and water mixture.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 15 minutes before serving.
- Top with hollandaise sauce before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using Zeeks Sausage instead of traditional hot Italian sausage. If you prefer a lighter version, swap out the ricotta for cottage cheese. Ensure to squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach to prevent a soggy pie. If you want a crispy crust, bake the pie on a preheated baking sheet.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot, topped with a drizzle of hollandaise sauce for added richness. This pie pairs beautifully with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a comforting side, consider serving it alongside Fettuccine Bake or a simple pasta dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until heated through. This ensures the crust remains crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Italian Sausage And Spinach Pie contains roughly 472 calories, with 22g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (48% of the Daily Value), protein (44% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 625mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie up to the baking step and refrigerate it for 1-2 days. Just remember to cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
If you’re looking for an alternative to mozzarella, consider using provolone or a combination of fontina and parmesan for a different flavor profile. Both options will melt well and complement the other ingredients in the pie.
Is it possible to freeze the pie?
Absolutely! You can freeze the pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and it will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).