If you’re looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal that’s simple to make but big on flavor, Monterey Sausage Pie is your answer. This savory pie combines juicy sausage, creamy Monterey Jack cheese, and a flaky crust into one irresistible dish. Whether for a family dinner, potluck, or meal prep, this pie delivers satisfying comfort with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Monterey Sausage Pie
- Rich, melty cheese: Monterey Jack melts perfectly, giving the pie a smooth, creamy texture that complements the savory sausage.
- Simple ingredients, gourmet taste: You don’t need fancy ingredients to impress—just quality sausage, cheese, eggs, and a buttery crust.
- Versatile & customizable: Add veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions to personalize it.
- Great for any occasion: Serve it hot for dinner, or slice and enjoy it cold for lunch the next day.
Ingredients You’ll Need (Serves 6)
- 1 lb ground sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 1 ½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup half-and-half or whole milk
- 1 refrigerated pie crust (or homemade if you prefer)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Optional: diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or jalapeños for extra flavor
How to Make Monterey Sausage Pie: Step-by-Step
1. Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll your pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, gently pressing it to fit snugly and crimping the edges. Set aside.
2. Cook the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until soft and fragrant. Add the ground sausage, using a spoon to break it apart as you go. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Mix the Filling
In a bowl, whisk together eggs and half-and-half. Mix in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese, cooked sausage, and any optional vegetables you’d like to include. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Assemble & Bake
Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust. Smooth the top gently with a spatula. Bake the dish uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is firm and the crust turns golden brown.
5. Cool & Serve
Allow the pie to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling firm up and makes serving easier.
Tips for the Best Sausage Pie
- Use quality sausage for the best flavor — a mix of pork and spices works beautifully.
- Don’t overfill the pie — leave a little room to prevent spillover.
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to brighten the flavor.
- For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pie crust or make a crustless version by baking the filling in a greased dish.
Why Monterey Jack Cheese?
Monterey Jack cheese is a staple in Southwestern cooking and beloved for its creamy texture and mild, buttery flavor. It melts smoothly without becoming oily or rubbery, making it perfect for pies, casseroles, and baked dishes like this sausage pie. The cheese’s mellow taste balances the rich, spicy sausage beautifully, ensuring every bite is savory and satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables or garlic mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
- Leftovers are fantastic cold or reheated and make great lunchbox options.
Final Thoughts
This Monterey Sausage Pie is the ultimate in comfort food—easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Its rich, cheesy filling and flaky crust will have everyone asking for seconds.