MONTEREY SAUSAGE PIE

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MONTEREY SAUSAGE PIE

Introduction:

The Monterey Sausage Pie is a savory, hearty, and deeply satisfying dish that’s been a comforting family favorite for generations. With a flaky crust, juicy sausage, farm-fresh eggs, and melty Monterey Jack cheese, this pie brings the best of breakfast, brunch, or dinner into one delicious slice. Think of it as a cousin to the quiche—but meatier, cheesier, and unapologetically satisfying.

History:

While quiche originates from France, Monterey Sausage Pie is an all-American twist that likely gained popularity in the late 20th century, especially during the casserole craze. The name “Monterey” nods to Monterey Jack cheese—a semi-hard cheese born in California, originally produced by Franciscan friars in the 18th century and later popularized in Monterey County.

This pie was made famous in Midwestern kitchens, often showing up in church potlucks, family brunches, and holiday breakfasts. It bridges the gap between old-school comfort food and new-world fusion, making it perfect for just about any occasion.

Ingredients:

For the Pie:

  • 1 lb (450g) pork sausage (mild or spicy)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra flavor)
  • 1½ cups milk
  • ¾ cup Bisquick or all-purpose baking mix
  • 3 large eggs
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • ¼ tsp paprika
  • 1 deep-dish 9-inch pie crust (pre-made or homemade)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook sausage, onion, and garlic until sausage is browned and crumbly. Drain excess grease.
  3. Spoon the sausage mixture evenly into the pie crust.
  4. Sprinkle with Monterey Jack cheese (and cheddar if using).
  5. In a medium bowl, whisk eggs, milk, Bisquick, and seasonings together until smooth.
  6. Pour egg mixture over sausage and cheese.
  7. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden.
  8. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Methods:

Crust:

  • Use a pre-made deep-dish crust for ease or make a homemade pie crust with flour, butter, and ice water. Blind bake it for 8 minutes to prevent sogginess.

Filling:

  • Brown your sausage well. You can use turkey sausage or plant-based sausage if preferred.
  • Use a combo of Monterey Jack and cheddar for richness and depth.

Baking:

  • Always let the pie rest before cutting so the filling can firm up.
  • Can be made a day ahead and reheated.

Benefits:

  • Protein-packed: Thanks to sausage and eggs.
  • Calcium-rich: Courtesy of all that gooey cheese.
  • Comforting: A hearty meal that satisfies hunger and soul.
  • Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
  • Make-ahead friendly: Great for meal prep.

Formation (How It Comes Together):

This dish starts with a buttery, flaky crust that hugs a warm, spicy sausage base. The creamy egg batter bakes around the meat and cheese, creating a soft custard interior. The melted cheese binds everything into a sliceable, cohesive pie that holds together beautifully—layered flavor and texture in every forkful.

Lovers of Monterey Sausage Pie:

  • Brunch Enthusiasts: Who love hearty and filling meals.
  • Busy Parents: Who need something easy to prepare ahead.
  • Cheese Lovers: Who enjoy gooey, melty deliciousness.
  • Meat Lovers: Who want savory, sausage-filled comfort food.
  • Foodies: Who enjoy rustic, home-cooked American dishes with flavor.

Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate):

  • Calories: 410
  • Protein: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 160mg
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Calcium: 220mg

Note: Nutrition will vary based on sausage type, cheese blend, and crust used.

Second Conclusion (Because You Asked Twice )

Conclusion:

Monterey Sausage Pie is a triumph of cozy, casserole-style cooking. It’s bold, rich, filling, and can feed a crowd with very little effort. Whether you’re hosting Sunday brunch or meal-prepping for the week, this pie always delivers warm, cheesy happiness in a slice. From the golden crust to the savory sausage to the melty Monterey Jack—it’s pure comfort food magic.

Second Mention of Lovers (Because… love deserves a double feature):

This dish is beloved by:

  • Dads who grill: And sneak in slices between BBQs.
  • Grandmas who bake: Who pass it down through generations.
  • Teenagers after football practice: Who need something satisfying.
  • Newlyweds on a budget: Who want a big flavor for little effort.
  • Anyone with taste buds: Who understands food = joy.

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