Venetian Pie (Meat Pie)
Venetian Pie features savory ground beef in a rich tomato sauce, accented with Parmesan and herbs, ideal for hearty meals and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer the ground beef with the tomato sauce, chopped onion, sugar, garlic salt, and oregano on low heat.
- Prepare the crust while the beef mixture simmers.
- Once the beef mixture is ready, fill the prepared crust with the meat filling.
- Bake until the crust is golden and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the beef mixture while simmering. If you don’t have oregano, Italian seasoning can work in a pinch. You can also substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or a mix of beef and pork for a different taste. To enhance the texture, try mixing in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Venetian Pie with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A side of marinara sauce can complement the pie and add moisture. This dish pairs beautifully with other Italian recipes, making it a great centerpiece for a themed dinner or family gathering.
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 about 1-2 minutes, or cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This pie can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it's well-wrapped.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Venetian Pie (Meat Pie) contains roughly 369 calories, with 12g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (182% of the Daily Value), and calcium (141% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 51g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 a store-bought crust for this pie?
Absolutely! If you're short on time, using a store-bought pie crust can save you effort. Just follow the package instructions for baking times, and it will still deliver a delicious result.
What can I add to the filling for extra flavor?
Consider adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even some crushed red pepper flakes for a kick. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also elevate the flavor profile of the filling.
Is it possible to make this pie vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or lentils for a vegetarian version. Ensure to adjust the seasoning to match the flavor of the original recipe.
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).