If you crave comfort food that warms your soul, let me guide you to the ultimate dish: Sausage and Gravy Pie. This hearty recipe combines rich, savory sausage and creamy gravy, all nestled in a flaky crust. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or a cozy night in, this pie is easy to make and oh-so-satisfying. Ready to dive into this flavorful delight? Let’s get started!
Ingredients
List of Required Ingredients
To make a delicious Sausage and Gravy Pie, gather these items:
– 1 pound breakfast sausage (spicy or mild, based on preference)
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for added heat)
– 2 pre-made pie crusts (or homemade, if preferred)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
Ingredient Substitutions
You can change some ingredients if needed. Use turkey sausage instead of pork for a lighter option. Almond milk or oat milk can replace regular milk for a dairy-free pie. For a lower-fat version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half. If you want to skip the flour, cornstarch can thicken the gravy. You can also use any cheese you like, such as mozzarella or pepper jack.
Tips for Choosing Quality Ingredients
When selecting sausage, look for fresh options in your store. Check labels for natural ingredients and avoid fillers. Choose whole milk and heavy cream to get a rich flavor. Fresh spices always taste best, so buy new if yours are old. For pie crusts, look for those made with butter for a flaky texture. If you can, buy organic vegetables for the best taste and nutrition.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Sausage
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step is key for a crispy crust. While the oven heats, grab a large skillet. Add 1 pound of breakfast sausage to the skillet. Cook it over medium heat. Stir often until the sausage is brown and crumbly, which takes about 5-7 minutes. If there’s extra grease, drain it off. This keeps your pie from being too oily.
Making the Gravy
Now, lower the heat to low. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour over the cooked sausage. Stir it well to mix. Gradually pour in 1 cup of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream. Keep stirring to avoid lumps. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like it spicy. Cook this mixture for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens. Remove it from the heat when it’s rich and creamy.
Assembling the Sausage and Gravy Pie
Take one of your pre-made pie crusts. Place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Pour the sausage and gravy mixture into the crust. Next, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the filling. Carefully lay the second pie crust on top. Crimp the edges together to seal the pie. Don’t forget to cut a few slits in the top crust! This helps steam escape while baking.
Baking and Cooling Instructions
Place your assembled pie in the oven. Bake it for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown. Keep an eye on it. When it’s done, take it out of the oven. Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle with 1/4 cup of chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Enjoy your Sausage and Gravy Pie! For the full recipe, refer to the section above.
Tips & Tricks
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making sausage and gravy pie, avoid using too much grease. Drain excess fat after cooking the sausage. If you skip this, your pie may be soggy. Also, don’t rush the gravy. Stir it until it thickens; this usually takes about 5-10 minutes. Lastly, make sure to crimp the edges well. A good seal keeps the filling from leaking out.
How to Achieve a Perfect Crust
A perfect crust starts with cold ingredients. Use cold butter or shortening for the dough. If you use pre-made crusts, let them chill in the fridge for 15 minutes before use. This helps the crust stay flaky. Next, don’t stretch the crust when placing it in the pie dish. Just gently press it down. Finally, cut slits in the top crust for steam. This prevents the pie from puffing up.
Garnishing Tips for Presentation
Garnishing adds a nice touch to your pie. Chopped green onions are great for color and flavor. Sprinkle them on top right before serving. You can also add some extra cheese on top for a delicious finish. If you want, serve the pie with a side salad. This adds freshness and balances the meal. Remember, presentation matters, so take a little time to make it look nice!
Variations
Vegetarian Sausage and Gravy Pie
You can easily make a vegetarian version of this pie. Use plant-based sausage instead of meat. Look for brands that mimic the taste of real sausage. You can also add mushrooms for texture. Sauté them with onions for extra flavor. This way, you keep the heartiness without the meat.
Adding Different Cheeses and Seasonings
Switch up the cheese for a unique taste. Pepper jack cheese adds a nice kick. You can also use mozzarella for a mild flavor. Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for depth. A sprinkle of smoked paprika can give it an extra layer of flavor. Play around with spices to find what you love.
Creative Pie Crust Options
Get creative with your crust! Use puff pastry for a flaky texture. You can also make a biscuit crust for a heartier bite. If you’re short on time, try a store-bought crust. You can even use phyllo dough for a lighter option. Each choice brings a new twist to your sausage and gravy pie.
For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe and start making your own delicious pie!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Sausage and Gravy Pie
Store leftover Sausage and Gravy Pie in an airtight container. Make sure it cools down first. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. If you have a bigger pie, slice it first. This helps it cool faster and makes it easy to grab a piece later.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warm. If you want a crispy crust, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes. You can also use a microwave. Heat in 30-second bursts until hot.
Freezing the Pie for Future Meals
You can freeze Sausage and Gravy Pie whole or in slices. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. This keeps out air and prevents freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above for a quick meal later.
FAQs
What are the best sides to serve with Sausage and Gravy Pie?
Sausage and gravy pie is rich and hearty. It pairs well with simple sides. Here are some great options:
– Mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette
– Roasted vegetables for added color and flavor
– Creamy mashed potatoes for a classic combo
– Fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast
These sides balance the dish and add different textures.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this pie ahead of time. Prepare the pie and keep it unbaked in the fridge. Cover it well with plastic wrap. You can bake it later when you are ready. This saves time on busy days. If you want to freeze it, wrap it tightly and store it for up to three months. Just remember to bake it straight from the freezer.
How do I know when the pie is fully cooked?
The pie is fully cooked when the crust turns golden brown. You can also check the filling. It should bubble slightly at the edges. Use a knife to cut a small slit in the crust. If the filling is hot and steamy, it is ready to eat.
What are some serving suggestions?
You can serve sausage and gravy pie hot or warm. Garnish it with chopped green onions for a pop of color. A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess. You can also offer hot sauce for those who like spice. Pair the pie with a cold drink, like iced tea or lemonade, to refresh your palate. Check the Full Recipe for more ideas and inspiration!
This guide covers making a delicious sausage and gravy pie. You learned about essential ingredients and good substitutions. I shared tips for selecting top-quality items. The step-by-step instructions make the cooking process simple and fun.
In the end, avoid common mistakes for the best results. Use my variations for extra flavor. Store leftovers properly to enjoy later. With these insights, you can create a pie your friends and family will love. Happy cooking!
