A Comforting Classic You Can’t Resist
There’s something undeniably inviting about a sturdy pie packed with savory goodness, and Monterey Sausage Pie fits the bill perfectly. I first stumbled upon this delightful dish during a family gathering, where it impressed young and old alike with its rich flavors and gooey cheese. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or a unique brunch item to wow guests, this recipe delivers in spades. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing creation that transforms simple ingredients into a show-stopping meal.
Reasons to Try It
Why does this dish deserve a spot in your cooking repertoire? For starters, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, meaning you can whip it up without spending hours in the kitchen. The hearty combination of pork sausage, fresh veggies, and melted Monterey Jack cheese makes it a meal that’s both filling and flavorful. Perfect for busy weeknights, lazy family brunches, or even as a potluck favorite, this pie gives you versatility with minimal effort. Plus, it’s kid-approved—what’s not to love about melted cheese and savory sausage?
"My family can’t get enough of this pie! It’s our go-to dish for Saturday brunches. It’s simple, yet tastes like something from a restaurant!" — Sarah T.
Step-by-Step Overview
Making Monterey Sausage Pie is a straightforward process that anyone can tackle. You’ll start by cooking the sausage and vegetables together, which releases delightful aromas that will have everyone gathering in the kitchen. Once that’s done, you’ll mix in the cheese and pour everything into a pie plate, topped off with an eggy biscuit batter. The final step is baking until it’s golden and bubbly. You’ll be ready to serve a delicious meal in no time!
Gather These Items
To make this comforting pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of pork sausage
- 1 cup of chopped onion
- 1 cup of chopped sweet red pepper
- 1/2 cup of chopped fresh mushrooms
- 3 teaspoons of minced garlic
- 2-1/2 cups of shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1-1/3 cups of whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup of biscuit mix
- 3/4 teaspoon of rubbed sage
- 1/4 teaspoon of pepper
Feel free to swap out the pork sausage for turkey sausage or make it vegetarian by using plant-based sausage and adding more veggies. Customize according to your dietary needs or preferences!
Directions to Follow
In a large skillet, brown the pork sausage over medium heat along with the chopped onion, sweet red pepper, and mushrooms until the meat is no longer pink. Add in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute. Drain any excess fat and stir in 2 cups of shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Transfer this mixture to a greased 9-inch deep pie plate.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the whole milk, large eggs, biscuit mix, rubbed sage, and pepper until smooth. Pour it evenly over the sausage mixture in the pie plate.
Bake the pie in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese on top and return to the oven for another minute or two until melted. Allow it to set for 10 minutes before slicing.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Monterey Sausage Pie is delicious on its own, but elevating the experience can make it even better! Consider serving it with a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, or pair it with roasted vegetables for some added color and nutrition. Homemade salsa or a dollop of sour cream can also add a nice touch. Enjoy it warm for that gooey cheese experience you won’t want to miss.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your leftovers fresh, allow the pie to cool completely before refrigerating. This will help maintain its taste and texture. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat slices in a conventional oven or microwave until heated through—just ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
Pro Chef Tips
For best results, consider these handy tips:
- Make sure to drain the sausage mixture well to avoid a soggy pie.
- You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick if your palate leans toward the bold side!
- Allow the pie to sit before slicing to let the ingredients set. This keeps your slices intact and makes for a prettier presentation.
Creative Twists
This Monterey Sausage Pie can take on many flavors and ingredients—feel free to get creative! Add chopped spinach for an extra nutritional boost or swap out the cheese for pepper jack for a spicier version. You could also experiment with different types of sausage such as Italian sausage for an entirely new twist, or use various vegetables to suit your taste buds.
Your Questions Answered
How long will it take to prepare?
Preparation and cooking time combined shouldn’t take more than an hour. This includes cooking the sausage and baking the pie.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pie in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked Monterey Sausage Pie. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Be sure to consume it within three months for optimal flavor.
