STEP 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the pie bakes evenly and the crust turns golden brown and flaky.

STEP 2: Prepare the Pie Filling

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This step releases the aromatic flavors of the onion and garlic, providing the base for the savory filling.

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Brown the beef for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly. Once the beef is fully browned, drain off any excess fat.

Next, stir in the chopped spinach. If you’re using fresh spinach, let it wilt down for 2-3 minutes. If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet. Stir the spinach into the beef mixture until it’s fully incorporated.

Now, add the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese (if using), and breadcrumbs to the skillet. Stir everything together until the mixture is well-combined. Season with oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the mixture cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is heated through and the flavors meld together.

Remove the skillet from heat and let the filling cool slightly while you prepare the crust.

STEP 3: Assemble the Pie

Roll out one of the pie crusts and fit it into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish. Press it gently into the dish, ensuring the edges are even. Use a fork to prick the bottom of the crust several times to prevent it from puffing up during baking.

Once the crust is in place, spoon the prepared filling into the pie shell, spreading it out evenly. Be careful not to overfill it, as the filling can spill over while baking.

Place the second pie crust over the top of the filled pie. Gently press the edges of the top and bottom crusts together to seal the pie. You can use your fingers or a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch. If desired, use a sharp knife to cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.

For a golden finish, brush the top crust with a light coating of beaten egg. This gives the crust a beautiful, glossy sheen once baked.

STEP 4: Bake the Pie

Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crisp. If the crust is browning too quickly, you can cover the edges with aluminum foil to prevent them from burning. The filling should be bubbly, and the crust should have a beautiful golden hue.

Once done, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time allows the filling to set, making it easier to serve.

STEP 5: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the pie into wedges and serve with your favorite side dishes. It pairs wonderfully with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes. Enjoy this hearty, comforting meal with your family or friends!