Introduction
Monterey Sausage Pie is a comforting, protein-rich dish that blends savory pork sausage, fluffy eggs, creamy milk, and melty Monterey Jack cheese into a hearty pie. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick dinner, this recipe is loved for its simplicity and satisfying flavor.
Origin
This dish has its roots in classic American breakfast casseroles and Bisquick-style pie recipes that became popular in mid-20th-century home kitchens. It was created as a practical, all-in-one meal that busy families could prepare quickly using pantry staples.
Cultural Significance
Monterey Sausage Pie reflects the tradition of hearty American comfort food, especially in Southern and Midwestern kitchens. It represents the idea of stretching simple, affordable ingredients into a filling family meal and is commonly served at potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday brunches.
Ingredients Quantity
- 1 pound bulk pork sausage
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
- 1⅓ cups milk
- 3 whole eggs
- ¾ cup biscuit/baking mix
- ¾ teaspoon rubbed sage
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Additions
- ½ cup diced onions or bell peppers
- ¼ cup chopped green chilies
- ½ teaspoon paprika or red pepper flakes for heat
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
- Use sharp cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a flavor twist
Tips for Success
- Drain the cooked sausage well to prevent a greasy pie
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting
- Do not overmix the batter for a light, fluffy texture
- Let the pie rest after baking for clean slices
- Use a deep-dish pie plate to avoid overflow
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium heat until no longer pink. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Drain excess grease.
Stir in 2 cups of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese and transfer the mixture into a greased 9-inch deep-dish pie plate.
In a small bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, biscuit mix, sage, and pepper until smooth.
Pour the batter evenly over the sausage mixture.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and bake for an additional 1–2 minutes, until melted.
Let stand for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Description
This pie is golden and lightly crisp on top, with a soft, fluffy interior filled with savory sausage and pockets of gooey melted Monterey Jack cheese. Each bite delivers a balanced combination of rich, creamy, and mildly spiced flavors.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per slice, based on 8 servings)
Calories: 320–350 kcal
Protein: 14–16 g
Fat: 24–26 g
Carbohydrates: 10–12 g
Calcium: 15–18% Daily Value
Sodium: 550–650 mg
Conclusion
Monterey Sausage Pie is a reliable, crowd-pleasing recipe that delivers comfort and flavor with minimal preparation. Its versatility makes it ideal for any time of day, whether served hot from the oven or reheated for leftovers.
Recommendation
Serve this pie with a fresh green salad for dinner or alongside fresh fruit and toast for a complete breakfast or brunch experience.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While rich and satisfying, this dish can be made lighter by using reduced-fat cheese, turkey sausage, or low-fat milk, allowing you to enjoy every bite while maintaining balance in your meals.