Monterey Sausage Pie (Print)

Savory pork sausage and two cheeses layered in a golden custard - versatile enough for any meal of the day.

# Ingredients:

→ Meat & Dairy

01 - 1 pound bulk pork sausage
02 - 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, freshly shredded
03 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
04 - 4 large eggs
05 - 2 cups half-and-half

→ Vegetables

06 - 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
07 - 1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
08 - 2 tablespoons green onions or chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)

→ Dry Ingredients

09 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
10 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
11 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
12 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

# Steps:

01 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bulk pork sausage and cook until thoroughly browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon (about 7-8 minutes). Drain on paper towels, leaving 1 tablespoon of the drippings in the skillet.
02 - Return the skillet with reserved drippings to medium heat and add onions and green bell pepper (if using). Sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
03 - Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a 9-inch pie dish with butter or cooking spray, coating the bottom and sides.
04 - Spread the cooked sausage evenly across the pie dish. Add sautéed onions and peppers, followed by a layer of shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses.
05 - In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until beaten. Add half-and-half, then whisk in flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
06 - Carefully pour the custard over the layers in the pie dish so it seeps through. Tap the dish on the counter to remove air bubbles.
07 - Place the pie dish on a baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Test doneness with a knife; it should come out clean.
08 - Allow the pie to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with green onions or chives if desired. Serve warm with a salad or as part of a brunch spread.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Versatile dish suitable for breakfast, brunch, or dinner and reheats well.
02 - Substitute bacon or ham for sausage for a different flavor.
03 - Enhance flavor by adding herbs such as thyme, sage, or rosemary to the custard.