Savory Italian Pork Pie: A Flavorful Twist on Shepherd’s Pie 🥧🇮🇹

Italian Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Overview:

This delightful Italian Shepherd’s Pie recipe combines the heartiness of traditional shepherd’s pie with a flavorful Italian twist, creating a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. With its layers of savory pork sausage, tangy stewed tomatoes, and creamy mashed potatoes, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Plus, it’s easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 917.9
Keywords: Potato, Vegetable, Meat, European, Weeknight, Oven, < 4 Hours, Easy

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). This ensures that your Italian Shepherd’s Pie cooks evenly and thoroughly.

2. Cook onion and garlic: In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped green onion and minced garlic cloves, and sauté until they become soft and fragrant, typically taking around 3-4 minutes.

3. Brown the sausage: Add the bulk pork sausage to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Cook the sausage until it browns nicely, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks to ensure it’s evenly browned. Once the sausage is cooked through, drain any excess fat from the skillet.

4. Add remaining ingredients: To the skillet with the cooked sausage, add the can of stewed tomatoes (make sure to drain any excess liquid first), beaten eggs, oregano, caraway seeds, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until well combined, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

5. Prepare the pie shell: Take an unbaked pie shell and spoon the sausage mixture into it, spreading it out evenly to create a delicious and hearty filling for your Italian Shepherd’s Pie.

6. Prepare the mashed potatoes: In a separate bowl, mix together the mashed potatoes with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This cheesy potato topping adds a creamy and indulgent layer to your pie.

7. Assemble the pie: Spoon or pipe the mashed potato mixture around the outer edges of the pie, creating a decorative border. This not only adds visual appeal but also seals in the savory filling.

8. Add finishing touches: Sprinkle the top of the pie with paprika, adding a pop of color and a hint of smokiness to the dish. For an extra touch of decadence, you can also sprinkle some additional shredded cheddar cheese on top if desired.

9. Bake the pie: Carefully place the assembled pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips, then transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown and bubbling.

10. Let it rest: Once the Italian Shepherd’s Pie is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures that the pie slices hold their shape when served.

11. Serve and enjoy: Slice the Italian Shepherd’s Pie into generous portions and serve it hot, savoring each delicious bite. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends, and it’s sure to become a beloved favorite in your recipe repertoire.

12. Make ahead: If you’re planning ahead, you can prepare the Italian Shepherd’s Pie up to the point of baking and then refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. Simply bake it when you’re ready to enjoy a comforting homemade meal, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 917.9
• Fat: 57.2g
  • Saturated Fat: 22.9g
• Cholesterol: 311.8mg
• Sodium: 1197.2mg
• Carbohydrates: 49.1g
  • Fiber: 5.2g
  • Sugar: 7.4g
• Protein: 50.8g

Final Thoughts:

Italian Shepherd’s Pie is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, combining the comforting elements of shepherd’s pie with the vibrant taste of Italian cuisine. With its savory pork sausage, tangy tomatoes, and creamy mashed potatoes, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of Italy with this delicious and comforting dish! 🇮🇹🥧