Monterey Sausage Pie

Monterey Sausage Pie is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines savory sausage, vegetables, and cheese into a delicious baked pie. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting dinner, this pie is easy to prepare and sure to please.

Ingredients

• 1 pound sausage
• 1 cup diced red pepper
• 1 sweet onion, diced (Walla Walla or Vidalia)
• ½ cup diced mushrooms (brown or white)
• 3 teaspoons fresh minced garlic
• 1⅓ cups milk
• 3 eggs
• ¾ cup Bisquick or similar baking mix
• ¾ teaspoon sage
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 2½ cups Monterey Jack cheese, grated

Directions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Brown Sausage

1. In a skillet, brown the sausage over medium heat until fully cooked.

Step 3: Prepare Vegetables

1. Dice the red pepper, sweet onion, and mushrooms. Add them to the skillet with the browned sausage.

Step 4: Add Garlic

1. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté with the sausage and vegetables for a few minutes until fragrant.

Step 5: Prepare Batter

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, Bisquick, sage, and pepper until smooth.

Step 6: Combine Cheese

1. Mix 2 cups of grated Monterey Jack cheese into the meat and vegetable mixture in the skillet. Reserve about ½ cup of cheese for garnish.

Step 7: Assemble

1. Pour the sausage and vegetable mixture into a greased deep-dish pie plate. Then, pour the batter from the mixing bowl over the top.

Step 8: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the pie is set.

Step 9: Garnish

1. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese on top and bake for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, just until the cheese melts.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

1. Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 to 27 minutes
• Total Time: 42 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Mix: Substitute or add other vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or tomatoes for different flavors.
• Cheese Variety: Use different types of cheese, like cheddar or Swiss, for a unique twist.
• Spicy Sausage: Use spicy sausage or add red pepper flakes to the mixture for extra heat.

Storage and Reheating

• To Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
   Yes, you can use Italian sausage, turkey sausage, or any preferred variety.
2. Can I prepare this pie ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the pie a day ahead and bake it just before serving.
3. What if I don’t have Bisquick?
   You can use any baking mix or make a substitute with flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Can I freeze the pie?
   Yes, you can freeze the pie before baking. Bake it straight from the freezer, adding additional baking time as needed.
5. How do I ensure the pie is set properly?
   The pie is set when the edges are golden brown and the center is firm to the touch.
6. Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
   Yes, pre-cooked sausage can be used. Just ensure it’s heated through and sliced before adding to the mixture.
7. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Use a gluten-free baking mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
8. Can I add more cheese?
   Yes, you can add more cheese if you prefer a cheesier pie.
9. What can I serve with this pie?
   Serve with a side salad or fresh fruit for a balanced meal.
10. How can I make this pie spicier?
    Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or use spicy sausage to increase the heat.

Conclusion

Monterey Sausage Pie is a versatile and satisfying dish that combines rich sausage, vegetables, and Monterey Jack cheese in a savory pie. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the comforting flavors and easy preparation!