Monterey Sausage Pie Recipe

Hearty Monterey Sausage Pie Recipe: A Comforting Family Favorite

Monterey sausage pie brings together a medley of hearty flavors that dance across your palate with surprising complexity.

Savory sausage mingles with melted cheese in a golden, flaky crust that whispers comfort.

Layers of rich ingredients create a symphony of taste you’ll crave from the first bite.

Rustic and satisfying, this dish emerges as a crowd-pleasing marvel that transcends ordinary meal expectations.

Home cooks can master this simple yet impressive recipe with just a few key techniques.

Each forkful promises a delightful journey through robust textures and balanced seasonings.

Gather your ingredients and prepare to transform an ordinary evening into a memorable culinary celebration.

Ingredients for Monterey Sausage Pie

Main Ingredients:
  • Sausage: A flavorful protein that forms the heart of this savory pie.
  • Eggs: Provide structure and richness to the pie filling.
  • Monterey Jack Cheese: Adds creamy, melty texture and mild cheese flavor.
Crust Ingredients:
  • Pie Crust, Biscuit Mix: Creates a golden, flaky base for the pie.
Supplemental Ingredients:
  • Green Onions, Chives: Bring a fresh, mild onion flavor and bright color to the dish.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Enhance and balance the overall taste of the pie.
  • Milk: Helps bind the filling and create a smooth, creamy texture.

Instructions to Prepare Monterey Sausage Pie

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Prepare your oven by setting it to 400F (200C). This ensures the perfect temperature for baking your Monterey Sausage Pie.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust

Roll out the pie crust and carefully place it into a 9-inch pie dish. Gently press the crust into the bottom and sides of the dish, creating a smooth and even surface. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.

Step 3: Brown the Sausage

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground sausage and cook until it’s completely browned and no pink remains. Break the sausage into small, even crumbles as it cooks to ensure uniform texture.

Step 4: Chop and Sauté Vegetables

Dice the onions and bell peppers into small, uniform pieces. In the same skillet used for the sausage, sauté the vegetables until they become soft and slightly translucent. This will enhance their flavor and add depth to the pie.

Step 5: Mix Filling Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
  • Browned sausage
  • Sautéed vegetables
  • Shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Stir the ingredients until they are well incorporated and evenly distributed.

Step 6: Fill the Pie Crust

Pour the sausage and cheese mixture into the prepared pie crust. Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly, ensuring it reaches all corners of the dish.

Step 7: Top and Bake

Sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top of the filling for an extra cheesy crust. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. This allows the filling to set and makes slicing easier. Cut into wedges and serve warm, enjoying the savory blend of sausage, cheese, and vegetables.

Pro Tips for Monterey Sausage Pie

  • Choose fresh, high-quality sausage for the best flavor profile and texture.
  • Opt for sharp cheddar cheese to enhance the pie's rich, savory taste.
  • Let the pie cool for 10-15 minutes after baking to help it set and make slicing easier.
  • Consider using gluten-free pie crust to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Serve with a crisp green salad to balance the hearty, meaty pie and add freshness to the meal.

Variations to Experiment With Monterey Sausage Pie

  • Tex-Mex Fiesta Pie: Replace Monterey Jack cheese with pepper jack, add diced green chiles, and top with fresh cilantro for a spicy southwestern kick.
  • Mediterranean Morning Pie: Swap sausage for crumbled feta, incorporate spinach, and sprinkle oregano to create a Greek-inspired breakfast variation.
  • Vegetarian Garden Pie: Substitute sausage with roasted mixed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, using a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses.
  • Bacon Cheddar Classic: Replace sausage with crispy bacon bits, switch Monterey Jack to sharp cheddar cheese, and add diced green onions for extra flavor.

Suggested Pairings for Monterey Sausage Pie

  • Savor Complementary Flavors: Pair this hearty Monterey Sausage Pie with a crisp, light-bodied white wine like Sauvignon Blanc that cuts through the richness of the sausage and cheese.
  • Match Refreshing Salad: Create a zesty mixed green salad with tangy vinaigrette to balance the pie's creamy and savory profile, adding a fresh counterpoint to the dish.
  • Enhance with Side Vegetable: Roast some asparagus or broccoli with garlic and olive oil to provide a nutritious and flavorful vegetable accompaniment that complements the pie's robust ingredients.
  • Cleanse Palate with Drink: Enjoy a cold, light beer like a pilsner or wheat beer that helps refresh the palate between bites of the rich, cheesy sausage pie.

Proper Storage for Monterey Sausage Pie

  • Store cooled pie slices in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze up to 2 months for later enjoyment.
  • Preheat oven to 350F, cover pie slice with aluminum foil to prevent drying, and warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
  • Heat individual slices on medium power for 30-45 seconds, checking temperature to ensure even warming without overcooking.

FAQs Regarding Monterey Sausage Pie

  • What ingredients make the Monterey Sausage Pie unique?

Sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese provide a rich, tangy flavor profile, while Italian sausage adds a hearty, spicy element to the pie.

  • Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Yes, the recipe is straightforward with simple steps and common ingredients, making it easy for home cooks of all skill levels to prepare successfully.

  • Can I substitute the sausage with another protein?

Ground beef or ground turkey work well as alternatives to Italian sausage, maintaining the pie’s savory character while offering flexibility for different dietary preferences.

  • How does the pie get its signature texture?

The combination of eggs, cheese, and a biscuit-like crust creates a creamy, slightly dense interior with a golden, crisp exterior that makes this pie both comforting and delicious.

What Makes Monterey Sausage Pie So Delicious

  • Simplify Weeknight Dinners: This hearty pie transforms ordinary ingredients into a delectable meal that comes together with minimal kitchen stress, perfect for busy families craving comfort food.
  • Pack in Protein Power: Loaded with sausage and cheese, this dish delivers a satisfying protein punch that keeps everyone full and energized, making it an excellent choice for active households.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Charm: With its golden crust and melty cheese, this pie appeals to all ages, turning mealtime into a cheerful gathering that brings smiles around the dinner table.
  • Versatile Meal Option: Whether served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this sausage pie adapts seamlessly to different meal times and can be easily customized with additional vegetables or herbs.
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Monterey Sausage Pie Recipe

Monterey Sausage Pie Recipe


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4.8 from 34 reviews

  • Total Time: Not specified
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty Monterey sausage pie brings rustic California flavors to your dinner table with savory sausage, melted cheese, and a golden crust. Home cooks will love this simple yet satisfying meal that combines comfort and regional charm.


Ingredients

Scale

Meat:

  • 1 pound sausage

Vegetables:

  • 1 cup diced red pepper
  • 1 sweet onion, diced (Walla Walla or Vidalia)
  • 1/2 cup diced mushrooms (brown or white)
  • 3 teaspoons fresh minced garlic

Dairy and Other Ingredients:

  • 1 1/3 cups milk
  • 3 eggs
  • 3/4 cup Bisquick or similar baking mix
  • 3/4 teaspoon sage
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 1/2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, grated

Instructions

  1. Warm the oven to a precise 400F (200C), preparing the environment for a golden, crispy pie.
  2. Unroll the pie crust and gently press it into a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring even coverage along the bottom and sides.
  3. Layer half of the shredded cheese across the bottom of the prepared pie crust, creating a melty foundation.
  4. Distribute the cooked sausage evenly over the cheese layer, spreading it to create a uniform meat base.
  5. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the sausage, creating a complete cheese coverage.
  6. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and seasonings until smooth and well-incorporated.
  7. Carefully pour the egg mixture over the cheese and sausage, allowing it to seep into all the crevices and create a cohesive filling.
  8. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, watching for a golden-brown top and a set center that jiggles slightly when gently shaken.
  9. Remove from the oven and let the pie rest for 10 minutes, allowing the filling to settle and the flavors to meld together.
  10. Slice into wedges and serve warm, enjoying the rich, savory layers of cheese, sausage, and creamy egg custard.

Notes

  • Swap regular sausage with turkey or plant-based alternatives for a lighter, healthier version that still packs incredible flavor.
  • Experiment with different cheese blends like sharp cheddar or smoked gouda to customize the pie’s richness and depth.
  • Use pre-made pie crust for a quick weeknight dinner or make your own homemade pastry for a more rustic, authentic touch that elevates the entire dish.
  • Allow the pie to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to help set the filling and make slicing easier, ensuring clean and beautiful presentation.
  • Prep Time: Not specified
  • Cook Time: Not specified
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 354 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 710 mg
  • Fat: 26 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 20 g
  • Cholesterol: 125 mg
Michael Thompson

Michael Thompson

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Creating single-serving recipes tailored for individuals, small households, or meal preppers
  • Culinary arts with a focus on clean plating and natural styling for food photography
  • Working with fermented ingredients and dairy-based cooking techniques
  • Designing seasonal menus that use fresh, locally sourced produce

Education

Cascade Culinary Institute – Bend, OR

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Gained hands-on experience in professional kitchens, learning advanced recipe development, seasonal ingredient sourcing, and simple, beautiful food presentation.

ServSafe Food Handler Certification – Portland, OR

  • Program: Food Safety Certification
    Focus: Certified in core food safety and hygiene principles for both home and professional kitchens, with emphasis on ingredient handling, kitchen cleanliness, and safe preparation methods.

Mike’s kitchen journey began with a single goal: to make everyday meals feel like something worth celebrating.
After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Cascade Culinary Institute, he spent years working with local farmers and small kitchens across Oregon, learning the beauty of seasonal, small-batch cooking.
Mike’s approach is simple, cook with what’s fresh, keep it approachable, and always leave room for a little creativity. When he’s not testing yogurt marinades or designing single-serving meals, you’ll find him hiking trails or hunting down the best berries at local markets.

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