Creamy Sausage Pie with Flaky Puff Pastry

Introduction

There’s something inherently comforting about a pie filled with savory sausage and creamy goodness, wrapped in flaky pastry. My family absolutely adores this Creamy Sausage Pie with Flaky Puff Pastry. Every time I make it, the aroma wafts through the house, drawing everyone into the kitchen. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners, and it also makes an impressive dish for gatherings. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible, making it a favorite among both kids and adults.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) ground sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried sage (optional)
• Fresh thyme, for garnish (optional)

For the Pastry:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

Prepare the Filling:

1. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the sausage and cook until browned and crumbled. Remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside, leaving any rendered fat in the skillet.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the flour is slightly golden.
4. Create the Sauce: Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add the heavy cream, black pepper, salt, thyme, and sage. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce.
5. Combine: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and mix well. Let the filling cool slightly.

Preheat and Prepare the Pastry:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll Out the Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry to fit your pie dish or baking dish. Carefully line the dish with the pastry, trimming any excess. Save the trimmings if you’d like to decorate the top.

Assemble the Pie:

1. Fill the Pie: Pour the sausage filling into the pie crust, spreading it evenly.
2. Cover: Place another layer of puff pastry over the top (or use the trimmings to create a lattice or decorative pattern).
3. Egg Wash: Brush the top of the pastry with the beaten egg to get that golden, glossy finish.

Bake the Pie:

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
2. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the pie to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Garnish and Serve:

• Garnish with fresh thyme if desired. Slice and enjoy warm!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 480
• Total Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 130mg
• Sodium: 900mg
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 18g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• Slice the pie into wedges.
• Serve warm with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Garnish with fresh thyme or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.

Additional Tips

1. Sausage Variety: Experiment with different types of sausage, such as Italian or chorizo, for a unique flavor profile.
2. Add Veggies: Consider adding other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
3. Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the pie.
4. Puff Pastry Alternatives: If you’re short on time, store-bought puff pastry is a great shortcut.
5. Freeze for Later: This pie can be frozen before baking. Just thaw and bake when you’re ready to enjoy.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute sausage with crumbled tempeh or mushrooms.
• Cheesy Twist: Add shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella to the filling for extra creaminess.
• Herbed Pastry: Incorporate fresh herbs into the pastry dough for an aromatic touch.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
• Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or a light vinaigrette for a complete meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: If you have leftovers, cool the pie completely before freezing. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Storage: Store leftover pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of meat?
   Yes, you can use ground beef, turkey, or chicken as alternatives.
2. What if I don’t have puff pastry?
   You can use pie crust or biscuit dough as a substitute.
3. Can this pie be made gluten-free?
   Yes, use gluten-free flour and puff pastry.
4. How do I prevent the bottom crust from getting soggy?
   Pre-bake the crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling.
5. Can I make the filling ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and refrigerate it.
6. How do I know when the pie is done baking?
   The pastry should be golden brown and puffed.
7. Is it okay to leave the pie out?
   It’s best to refrigerate any leftovers within two hours of serving.
8. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
   Absolutely! Just use three times the amount of fresh herbs as they are less concentrated.
9. What sides pair well with this pie?
   A simple green salad or roasted vegetables complement it nicely.
10. How long does it take to reheat?
    Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.

Conclusion

The Creamy Sausage Pie with Flaky Puff Pastry is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with flavor and comfort. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pie brings a smile to the table. The combination of creamy sausage filling enveloped in flaky pastry is simply unbeatable. Give it a try, and I guarantee it will become a cherished recipe in your home, just as it has in mine.

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