Italian Pie
A hearty Italian pie layered with pasta, meats, and cheese, perfect for family dinners and gatherings, offering rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the vermicelli and drain.
- Combine the cooked vermicelli with butter, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, and dried basil.
- Press the mixture into the bottom and sides of a 10-inch pie plate to form a crust.
- Brown the ground beef and sausage with chopped onion in a skillet.
- Drain excess fat from the meat mixture.
- Combine the cooked meats with spaghetti sauce in a mixing bowl.
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the crust.
- Pour the meat and sauce mixture on top of the cheese layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding some garlic or Italian seasoning to the meat mixture. You can substitute the vermicelli with other pasta types like penne or fusilli if desired. If you're short on time, pre-cooked sausage can speed up the process, or use ground turkey for a lighter option. This dish is versatile and can incorporate leftover vegetables to enhance the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Italian Pie with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Meatballs Napoli for a hearty Italian feast. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh basil on top can enhance presentation and flavor. This dish is perfect for gatherings, and leftovers also make a delicious lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Cover with foil if reheating in the oven to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Pie contains roughly 698 calories, with 18g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value), calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 479mg per serving (21% 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 the Italian Pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just assemble the pie, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
Can I freeze this Italian Pie?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed for a delicious home-cooked meal.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, a mix of shredded mozzarella and a dash of nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy taste without using dairy. Experimenting with different cheeses can give the dish a unique twist while maintaining its delicious essence.
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).