Monterey Sausage Pie
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade, if preferred)
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter option)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup diced bell peppers or green chilies for added flavor
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust
- Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish.
- Trim the edges if needed, and crimp the edges decoratively.
- Poke the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent bubbling.
- Blind bake the crust for 10 minutes (optional but recommended for a crisper bottom).
Step 3: Cook the Sausage Filling
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3–5 minutes.
- If using bell peppers or green chilies, stir them in during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- Remove from heat and drain any excess grease. Let the mixture cool slightly.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
- Spread the cooked sausage mixture evenly over the pre-baked pie crust.
- Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese over the sausage.
Step 5: Prepare the Egg Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the sausage and cheese in the pie crust.
Step 6: Bake the Pie
- Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- To check doneness, insert a knife or toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Tips for Success
- Crust Options: For a low-carb version, skip the crust and bake the filling in a greased pie dish.
- Cheese Variations: Swap Monterey Jack and cheddar with pepper jack, mozzarella, or any favorite cheese.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Twist: Use spicy sausage or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or microwave individual slices for 1–2 minutes.
This Monterey Sausage Pie is rich, satisfying, and versatile—perfect for any meal of the day. Enjoy it with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a side of fruit for a complete and delicious meal!