Indulge in a savory twist on a classic favorite with this delectable recipe for Pizza Pot Pie. Combining the beloved flavors of pizza with the comforting warmth of a pot pie, this dish offers a delightful culinary experience that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp dry oregano
- 3/4 lb Italian sausage
- 250g cream cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup sweet bell pepper, diced
- 18 slices pepperoni
- 2 tbsps sliced black olives
- Pie dough for 2 crust 9″ pie
- 1 egg and 1 tsp water for egg wash
- 9″ cast iron pan
Directions:
- In a large mixer bowl, blend the cream cheese, mozzarella (reserving 2 tbsp mozzarella for later), and oregano together. Set aside.
- Cut the Italian sausage into pieces. Brown it in a skillet until almost completely cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Add the onions, sweet pepper, and black olives and cook for 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Add the cooked meat mixture to the cheese mixture and fold in the halved cherry tomatoes.
- Roll out half of the pastry on a floured counter and place it in a 9″ cast iron pan. Add the filling mixture, then top with half of the pepperoni slices.
- Roll out the top crust, place it on the filling, and pinch the edges all around. Make a few slits for steam to escape, then brush the crust with egg wash and sprinkle with oregano.
- Place the remaining pepperoni slices on top, making sure not to cover the slits in the pastry. Sprinkle the reserved 2 tbsp mozzarella over the top.
- Bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
- Cool the Pizza Pot Pie for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips:
- Ensure the sausage is cooked thoroughly before adding it to the cheese mixture.
- Use a sharp knife to make slits in the pastry to allow steam to escape while baking.
- Adjust the amount of oregano according to your taste preferences.
- Feel free to customize the toppings according to your liking, such as adding mushrooms or different types of cheese.
Conclusion:
With its flavorful combination of cheeses, savory sausage, fresh vegetables, and zesty pepperoni, this Pizza Pot Pie is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the comforting warmth and irresistible taste of this delightful dish as you savor each slice with family and friends.
- Can I Use Store-Bought Pie Dough Instead of Making My Own?
- Absolutely! While homemade pie dough adds a personal touch to the dish, you can certainly use store-bought pie dough for convenience. Ensure that you follow the instructions on the package for rolling out and handling the dough. Pre-made pie crusts are available in most grocery stores and can save you time in the kitchen.
- Can I Substitute Different Meats for the Italian Sausage?
- Yes, you can customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Instead of Italian sausage, you can use ground beef, turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives like tofu or tempeh. Just ensure that the meat is cooked thoroughly before adding it to the cheese mixture to ensure food safety and optimal flavor.
- Can I Prepare Pizza Pot Pie in Advance and Reheat It Later?
- While Pizza Pot Pie is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it later with good results. After baking, allow the pot pie to cool completely, then cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the pot pie in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, usually about 20-25 minutes. However, note that the crust may lose some of its crispiness upon reheating.
- How Can I Make Pizza Pot Pie Vegetarian or Vegan-Friendly?
- To make this recipe vegetarian-friendly, simply omit the Italian sausage and opt for additional vegetables or meat alternatives such as vegetarian sausage crumbles or tofu. For a vegan version, use dairy-free alternatives for the cream cheese and mozzarella cheese. You can find vegan cream cheese and mozzarella cheese substitutes in most health food stores or supermarkets. Additionally, ensure that the pie dough you use is vegan-friendly, as some brands may contain dairy products or animal-derived ingredients. By making these substitutions, you can create a delicious vegetarian or vegan Pizza Pot Pie that everyone can enjoy.