Italian Mince and Tomato Pie is a hearty dish you'll love. It combines ground beef, fresh tomatoes, and a variety of cheeses, all nestled in a light, pizza-like crust. You'll want to use high-quality ingredients, especially the tomato sauce. The preparation is quick, taking about 15 minutes, perfect for busy nights or impressing guests. Bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling. There's even more to explore about this comforting classic!
History
Italian mince and tomato pie, or "Italian Tomato Pie," has become a beloved dish in Italian-American cuisine, especially in cities like Philadelphia and Utica, New York.
Its roots trace back to the early 20th century when Italian immigrants introduced their culinary traditions. As they settled in America, this delicious meat pie gained popularity, showcasing a blend of ground meat, tomatoes, and cheeses.
Unlike traditional savory pies, Italian Tomato Pie features a lighter dough, reminiscent of pizza crust, giving it a unique texture.
Over time, regional variations emerged, allowing communities to incorporate local ingredients and preferences. This versatility has made Italian mince and tomato pie a staple dish, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of Italian-Americans across the country. Additionally, the dish has often been paired with nutritional guidelines for maintaining a balanced diet, highlighting its role in promoting overall wellness.
Recipe
To get started, gather your ingredients and make sure to have your oven preheated. The key to a delicious pie lies in the quality of the ingredients you use, especially the tomato sauce.
Seasoning it well with salt, olive oil, and fresh herbs will elevate the overall flavor of the dish. Using pre-made pastry can save you time, allowing you to focus on the filling and assembling the pie without the hassle of making dough from scratch.
Ingredients
- 500g minced beef
- 3 eggs
- 200g mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 400g tomato sauce
- 4 slices of stale bread, torn into pieces
- Salt, to taste
- Olive oil, to taste
- Fresh basil, to taste
- Short crust or puff pastry (pre-made)
Cooking Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the minced beef, eggs, shredded mozzarella, torn bread, and seasoned tomato sauce. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Roll out your pastry and line a pie dish, ensuring it covers the base and sides. Pour the beef and tomato mixture into the pastry-lined dish, spreading it evenly. Cover the top with additional pastry, sealing the edges securely.
Make a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape, then bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 35 minutes, or until golden brown.
Extra Tips
For added flavor, consider incorporating sautéed onions or garlic into the meat mixture. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as oregano or thyme, to personalize the taste to your liking. Additionally, serving the pie with a side of creamy risotto can create a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy them within 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the pie's crispy texture.
Cooking Steps
To start cooking your Italian mince and tomato pie, you'll preheat your oven to 375°F.
Next, you'll add the minced meat mixture to a hot frying pan and season it with herbs for that extra kick.
Once that's done, layer it with sliced tomatoes and top it all off with cheese for a delicious finish.
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 375°F
Preheating your oven to 375°F is crucial for achieving the perfect Italian mince and tomato pie. This temperature ensures optimal cooking, allowing the pie crust to bake evenly while the filling bubbles and the cheese melts beautifully.
Before you start, prepare your pie crust by lining a pie plate with either store-bought or homemade dough, pressing it firmly against the edges to prevent any leaks.
Once your oven reaches the desired temperature, you'll be ready to layer in the cooked minced meat mixed with tomatoes and seasoning, followed by cheese and any additional toppings you like.
Preheating your oven sets the stage for a delicious, golden-brown crust that'll make your pie truly irresistible. Additionally, maintaining proper lighting control can enhance the visual appeal of your dish when served.
Step 2. Add Minced Meat Mixture
Start by browning 1 pound of minced beef in a large frying pan over medium heat until it's fully cooked and no longer pink—this should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
Once the beef is browned, drain any excess grease and let it cool slightly. This minced meat mixture will serve as the heart of your pie.
In your pre-baked pie crust, layer half of the cooked beef over a bed of shredded mozzarella cheese. This adds a delicious, gooey texture.
Repeat the process with the remaining beef, ensuring an even distribution. This balance is key for a flavorful slice that combines the rich meat and creamy cheese perfectly.
Incorporating high in omega-3 fatty acids into your diet, such as through chia seeds, can enhance the overall nutritional profile of your meals.
You're now set for the next steps!
Step 3. Add Seasoning and Herbs
As you incorporate the minced meat mixture into your pie, adding seasoning and herbs elevates the flavors significantly.
Start by mixing in dried herbs like oregano and basil as you brown the ground beef; this will infuse the meat with rich Italian flavors.
Don't forget to adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper in the tomato layers to balance the sweetness and enhance the overall taste.
If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes, which perfectly complements the savory beef and cheese.
To finish, experiment with fresh herbs like chopped chives or parsley as a garnish on top before serving, providing a fresh burst of color and flavor. Additionally, incorporating natural sweeteners could enhance the overall flavor profile of your dish, similar to how it works in dessert recipes.
Step 4. Layer With Sliced Tomatoes
Once you've seasoned your ground beef and prepared the crust, it's time to layer in the sliced tomatoes for a fresh burst of flavor.
Start by slicing ripe tomatoes evenly; this ensures consistent cooking and flavor throughout the pie. Season those tomato slices with salt and pepper to enhance their natural taste.
Layer the sliced tomatoes over the green peppers and cooked ground beef, making sure to arrange them in a single layer to prevent sogginess. This allows the crust to bake properly.
For an added depth of flavor, sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or oregano over the tomatoes. This step elevates your filling, laying the groundwork for the delicious Parmesan or Romano cheese layer that's coming next. Additionally, using fresh herbs pays homage to the coastal culinary heritage of Italy found in dishes like Cacciucco.
Step 5. Top With Cheese Layer
To create a delicious cheese layer for your Italian Mince and Tomato Pie, begin by mixing together one cup of grated mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
After layering the pie with the tomato and mince mixture, evenly spread half of that cheese blend into the cooled pie shell. This will form a rich base that enhances the flavors.
Next, combine Miracle Whip, additional grated cheddar cheese, and a splash of hot sauce to elevate the taste.
Spread this mixture evenly over the green peppers, ensuring the cheese layer covers the entire surface. This step's crucial for achieving a golden, bubbling crust during baking.
Additionally, consider serving your pie with a side of Dirt Cups, as they make a fun and easy dessert that complements the savory flavors of the pie.
Bake the pie in a preheated oven at 400°F for 40 to 50 minutes, until the cheese topping is beautifully golden.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, Italian mince and tomato pie delivers on both fronts.
With its layers of seasoned minced meat, fresh tomato slices, and a rich blend of cheeses, this dish is both hearty and flavorful.
You'll love how easy it's to prepare, especially with a pre-made pie crust that cuts down on prep time to just 15 minutes.
Add a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan or Romano on top for an extra touch of richness.
Plus, you can customize it with your favorite herbs, making it perfect for any occasion.
Serve it warm or at room temperature, and watch it disappear at your next gathering! Additionally, preparing meals like this can be a great way to involve family members in caregiving activities, promoting bonding and support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Do Italians Call Tomato Pie?
If you're curious about what Italians call tomato pie, they refer to it as "torta di pomodoro." This term directly translates to "tomato cake" in English, highlighting the dish's baked nature.
In various regions, especially in the United States, you'll find local interpretations of this dish, but the Italian version focuses on fresh tomatoes, herbs, and a savory crust.
It's a delightful dish that many enjoy, whether warm or at room temperature.
What Is the Difference Between Mince Pie and Mince Meat Pie?
Mince pie and mince meat pie sound similar, but they're quite different.
When you think of mince pie, you're imagining a sweet dessert filled with dried fruits and spices, perfect for the holidays.
On the other hand, mince meat pie is savory, packed with minced meat, vegetables, and spices, making it a hearty main dish.
The pastry varies too; mince pies use shortcrust, while mince meat pies often feature flaky pastry.
Is Tomato Pie the Same as Sicilian Pizza?
Did you know that over 60% of Americans enjoy pizza at least once a month?
When it comes to tomato pie and Sicilian pizza, they're not the same. Tomato pie features a crust layered with a rich tomato base and cheese, often served cold.
In contrast, Sicilian pizza has a thick, square crust and is loaded with various toppings, best enjoyed hot.
What Is the Difference Between Trenton and Philly Tomato Pie?
When you compare Trenton and Philly tomato pie, you'll notice distinct differences.
Trenton's pie features a thin, crispy crust topped with tomato sauce and often no cheese, while Philly's version has a thicker, cheesier crust, typically served at room temperature.
Trenton's dough is crunchier, resembling traditional pizza, whereas Philly's is softer, akin to focaccia.
Additionally, Trenton pies are cut into squares, while Philly pies come in round slices, showcasing their unique culinary traditions.
Conclusion
As you savor each bite of your Italian mince and tomato pie, you're not just enjoying a meal; you're indulging in a comforting embrace of flavors that whispers of home. This dish, rich in history and love, brings warmth to your table and heart. So, gather your loved ones and share this delightful creation, for it's more than food—it's a moment worth cherishing, a delicious reminder that togetherness makes every meal unforgettable.
