- 1 pre-made pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 lb ground sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or a mix of Monterey Jack and cheddar)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Hot sauce (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pie crust and gently press it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges for a decorative finish.
2. Brown the Sausage
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground sausage and cook until browned and crumbled, about 6–8 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving any rendered fat in the pan.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, thyme (if using), smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir in the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, and shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
5. Assemble the Pie
- Pour the filling mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Optional: Sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top for extra cheesiness.
6. Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center of the pie—if it comes out clean, the pie is ready.
7. Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and serve warm.
- Enjoy every bite of this savory, cheesy, and flavorful Monterey Sausage Pie!
- Perfect as a standalone dish or paired with a side salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, herbs, and high-quality sausage make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Switch Proteins: Substitute sausage with ground beef, turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives for variety.
- Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition.
- Store Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
This Monterey Sausage Pie combines the rich, savory flavors of seasoned sausage and sautéed vegetables with the creamy, melty goodness of Monterey Jack cheese, all baked into a buttery pie crust. The result is a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent, with layers of flavor that feel luxurious yet approachable. Whether served as a standalone meal or customized with your favorite mix-ins, this recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity without requiring advanced cooking skills.
Conclusion: A Dish Everyone Will Love
Whether you’re craving something hearty and cheesy, looking for a way to elevate your weeknight dinners, or simply want to enjoy a homemade treat, this Monterey Sausage Pie is sure to delight. Its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and customizable options make it a standout recipe that’s as practical as it is delicious. Plus, its versatility means you can tailor it to suit any occasion.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this pie might just inspire others to try it too! 🍴✨
