Sausage-Greens Pie
A hearty savory pie combining spicy Italian sausage, cheesy greens, and flaky crust, perfect for family dinners or special occasions craving comforting, flavorful comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the pie crust in a pie dish.
- In a bowl, combine ground sausage, eggs, mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well.
- Stir in the chopped greens until evenly incorporated.
- Pour the sausage and greens mixture into the prepared pie crust.
- Cut the remaining uncooked pie crust into strips and lace over the top of the filling.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 1 hour and 15 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using turkey sausage instead of sweet Italian sausage. You can also swap in fresh greens like spinach or kale if you prefer. If you want extra flavor, add some grated Parmesan cheese to the filling. Ensure the pie crust is well-browned before adding the filling to prevent sogginess.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty Sausage-Greens Pie pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette. For a complete meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. You can also offer a side of hot sauce for those who enjoy a kick. Enjoy with a glass of crisp white wine for a delightful dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for about 1-2 minutes, but the oven method will keep the crust crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage-Greens Pie contains roughly 305 calories, with 14g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (64% of the Daily Value), protein (27% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 627mg 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 use fresh greens instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh greens can be used instead of frozen. Just make sure to sauté them first to reduce moisture and enhance their flavor before adding them to the filling. This will help prevent the pie from becoming soggy.
What can I substitute for the ricotta cheese?
If you don't have ricotta cheese, cottage cheese can be a great substitute. Blend it until smooth for a similar texture. Cream cheese can also work if you want a richer flavor, just be sure to soften it first for easier mixing.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the sausage and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or lentils for protein. You might also consider adding extra vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini, for added flavor and nutrition.
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).