Sausage Surprise Pie
A hearty savory pie combining sweet potatoes, sausage, and cheese with a zesty orange flavor, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown 1 1/2 pounds of hamburger in a skillet along with a large chopped onion, then drain.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Grate 1/2 to 1 pound of cheddar cheese.
- Chop 4 or 5 jalapeno peppers or green chilies.
- Grease a heavy skillet and sprinkle with cornmeal, then let it brown in the oven.
- Mix half of the creamed corn and half of the sweet potatoes, then layer half of the cheese, meat, onions, and peppers.
- Repeat with the remaining corn mixture, cheese, meat, and peppers.
- Cover and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try replacing the sausage with ground turkey or a vegetarian sausage for a lighter option. You can also use butternut squash instead of sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile. Ensure to brown the meat well for enhanced flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, add more jalapenos or include diced green chilies in the mix.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sausage Surprise Pie with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A dollop of sour cream or a side of salsa can add extra flavor. This pie also pairs beautifully with Yummy No-Bake Cheesecake for a delightful finish to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just be sure to cool it completely before sealing it in a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage Surprise Pie contains roughly 497 calories, with 9g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (63% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1507mg per serving (66% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance. Assemble all the layers, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply remove from the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature before baking as directed.
What can I substitute for creamed corn?
If you don’t have creamed corn, you can blend regular corn with a bit of milk or cream to achieve a similar consistency. Alternatively, using a can of corn mixed with a tablespoon of butter or cream can work in a pinch.
Is there a vegetarian version of this pie?
Absolutely! You can replace the sausage with a meat alternative, such as lentils or a plant-based sausage. Additionally, consider adding more vegetables like mushrooms or spinach to enhance the filling while keeping it hearty and satisfying.
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).