Sausage Mashed Potato Pie
I had some sausage and a frozen pie crust I needed to use up so I made this. It turned out to be such a delicious comfort meal😍
Ingredients:
1lb ground sausage
2 cups mashed potatoes (can be leftover or instant…I used 3 medium russet potatoes and whipped up a quick batch)
1 egg
1 frozen pie crust
1 leek
1 cup cheddar cheese
1/4 cup milk or cream
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375.
2. Combine mashed potatoes, milk, egg, seasoning, and 3/4 of the cheese in a bowl.
3. On a skillet over medium heat, sweat down the chopped leek. Once it is wilted and more translucent, add the sausage and cook until browned.
4. Add the sausage and leek mixture to the mashed potato mixture and stir to combine.
5. Add the filling to the pie crust and top with cheese.
6. Bake for 30 mins, or until the crust is baked through.
7. Let cool for about 10 mins, then serve and enjoy!
Hey foodies! I wanted to share a bit more about my go-to Sausage Mashed Potato Pie because so many of you asked for tips and variations! This recipe is truly a lifesaver for busy weeknights, and it's become a family favorite in my house. First off, let's talk about the name. You might have seen this dish called 'Cowboy Pie' before, and it’s a perfect fit! It’s essentially a rustic, hearty savory pie, often with a meat and potato filling. While traditional Shepherd's Pie uses lamb and Cottage Pie uses beef, my version with savory sausage brings a delicious, seasoned twist that's incredibly satisfying. It’s all about using what you have and making something wonderfully comforting and easy to put together. One of the best things about this sausage potato pie is how wonderfully adaptable it is. For the sausage, I absolutely love using a mild Italian ground sausage for its balanced flavor, but you could easily swap it for a spicy Italian sausage if you like a bit of a kick, or even a breakfast sausage for a more unique, savory-sweet profile. If you don't have ground sausage on hand, cooked crumbled bacon or even leftover shredded chicken works wonders too! As for the potatoes, while russets give that classic fluffy mash, feel free to experiment with Yukon Golds for an even creamier texture, or even sweet potatoes for a slightly different, earthy flavor profile. Just make sure your mashed potatoes are well-seasoned to really enhance the pie's overall taste. Now, let's talk about that amazing golden crust! Even though I use a pre-made pie crust for ultimate convenience, the real magic for me is in that bubbly, melted cheddar cheese topping. It’s not just for looks; it adds an incredible layer of tangy flavor and a beautiful texture. For an extra golden finish on the cheese, sometimes I'll pop the pie under the broiler for just a minute or two at the very end, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning! If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try a completely mashed potato crust, you could press a thicker layer of seasoned mashed potatoes over the filling instead of a pastry crust – just know it might need a bit longer in the oven to firm up and get that lovely golden-brown char on top. Finally, if you're wondering what goes with mashed potatoes in a pie like this, or what to serve alongside it, I’ve got you covered. Since this pie is already a complete, hearty meal, I usually keep sides simple. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully and adds a fresh element. Steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or even some garlic sautéed spinach would also make fantastic, easy additions to balance out your plate. For a heartier meal, some warm, crusty bread for dipping into any saucy bits is always a win! Remember, don't skimp on sweating down that leek – it adds so much subtle, sweet flavor without overpowering the dish. And letting the pie cool for 10 minutes before serving is crucial; it helps everything set, making for perfect, clean slices. This pie also reheats wonderfully, so don't be afraid to make a bigger batch for delicious leftovers! Hope these extra thoughts help you make this cozy comfort meal even more your own. Happy cooking, everyone!