Monterey Sausage Pie: A Comfort Food Classic
Introduction to Monterey Sausage Pie
There are certain recipes that capture the heart of family cooking — simple, satisfying, and full of flavor. Monterey Sausage Pie is one of those dishes. It brings together the rich, savory taste of seasoned pork sausage, the irresistible gooeyness of Monterey Jack cheese, and the creamy texture of a custard-like base held together with eggs and biscuit mix. The result is a hearty, golden-brown pie that works beautifully for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.
Unlike complicated dishes that require layers of preparation, Monterey Sausage Pie is straightforward yet impressive. The flavor is bold thanks to garlic, sage, and pepper, while the generous amount of cheese makes every bite creamy and comforting. It’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a go-to in your household because it’s versatile, affordable, and easy to prepare with pantry staples.
Whether you’re hosting a family brunch, preparing a make-ahead weeknight dinner, or looking for a potluck crowd-pleaser, this dish fits perfectly.
Why This Recipe Works
Monterey Sausage Pie succeeds because it strikes a balance between ease and flavor. Here’s why it works so well:
- Savory foundation with sausage: Pork sausage adds richness and a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with herbs and cheese. Its natural fats infuse the pie with moisture and flavor, preventing dryness.
- Cheesy indulgence: With 2 ½ cups of Monterey Jack cheese, this recipe ensures every slice is filled with gooey, melty, creamy goodness. Monterey Jack is mild but flavorful, making it a family-friendly choice.
- Egg and milk custard base: The mixture of milk and eggs transforms the dish into a pie-like casserole. It creates a light, fluffy texture that contrasts with the hearty sausage.
- Biscuit mix magic: Instead of making a crust from scratch, the baking mix provides structure and substance without the fuss. It gives the pie a subtle, biscuit-like texture that supports the other ingredients.
- Balanced seasoning: Garlic, sage, and pepper cut through the richness, adding brightness and warmth without overwhelming the dish.
This is why Monterey Sausage Pie has stood the test of time — it’s reliable, customizable, and delicious every single time.
What You’ll Need for This Recipe
To make Monterey Sausage Pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:
1 pound bulk pork sausage – Look for a good-quality breakfast or mild Italian sausage. You can also use spicy sausage if you prefer extra heat.
3 teaspoons minced garlic – Fresh is best, but jarred garlic will also work.
2 ½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided – This adds creaminess and a golden finish on top.
1 ⅓ cups milk – Whole milk works best, but 2% is fine. Avoid skim, as it can make the pie watery.
3 whole eggs – They create the custard-like texture.
¾ cup biscuit/baking mix – A shortcut that provides structure. Brands like Bisquick work perfectly.
¾ teaspoon rubbed sage – A warm, earthy herb that pairs beautifully with pork.
¼ teaspoon pepper – Adds a gentle kick without overpowering.
Equipment needed:
A 9-inch pie dish or casserole dish
Large skillet (for browning sausage)
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Monterey Sausage Pie
Follow these simple steps to create a pie that comes out perfect every time:
Step 1: Prepare the sausage
In a large skillet, cook the bulk pork sausage over medium heat until browned and crumbled. Drain excess fat, leaving just enough to keep the sausage moist. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Layer the sausage and cheese
Grease a 9-inch pie dish lightly with butter or nonstick spray. Spread the cooked sausage evenly in the bottom. Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the sausage. This forms a rich, flavorful base.
Step 3: Mix the custard
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, biscuit mix, sage, and pepper until smooth. Make sure the mixture is lump-free, as this ensures even baking.
Step 4: Assemble the pie
Pour the milk mixture over the sausage and cheese layers. Top with the remaining 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
Step 5: Bake the pie
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the pie dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. To test doneness, insert a knife into the center — it should come out clean.
Step 6: Rest and serve
Allow the Monterey Sausage Pie to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the custard set and makes slicing easier.
Tips + Tricks & More for Recipe Success
To make your Monterey Sausage Pie turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
Drain sausage properly: Too much grease will make the pie soggy. Drain thoroughly but don’t dry out the sausage completely.
Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Shred a block of Monterey Jack for the best texture.
Don’t skip the resting step: Like quiches or casseroles, this pie benefits from a short resting time after baking. It allows the custard to firm up and flavors to meld.
Add veggies for variation: Try sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
Switch up the cheese: Monterey Jack is traditional, but you can mix in cheddar, Colby Jack, or pepper jack for a spicier version.
Make ahead: Prepare the sausage and cheese layers the night before. Store in the fridge, then mix and pour the custard just before baking.
Freezer-friendly: Bake, cool, and freeze individual slices for quick breakfasts. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
How to Serve Monterey Sausage Pie
Monterey Sausage Pie is versatile and can be enjoyed in multiple ways:
For breakfast or brunch: Serve warm with a side of fruit salad, hash browns, or fresh toast.
For lunch or dinner: Pair with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even soup for a complete meal.
For gatherings: Slice into squares instead of wedges and serve on a platter as part of a buffet.
The creamy, cheesy interior and golden crusty top make it appealing whether you’re serving it casually at home or presenting it at a family gathering.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some tasty pairings to elevate your Monterey Sausage Pie experience:
Beverage pairings: Freshly squeezed orange juice, spiced chai, or even a glass of crisp white wine for dinner.
Side dishes: Garlic bread, roasted potatoes, or a fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.
Toppings: A dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped chives, or even hot sauce for spice lovers.
Time Required
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25–30 minutes
Resting time: 5 minutes
Total time: About 45–50 minutes
This means you can have a comforting, homemade Monterey Sausage Pie on the table in under an hour.
Final Thoughts on Monterey Sausage Pie
Comforting, flavorful, and endlessly versatile, Monterey Sausage Pie is one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again. It combines the hearty flavors of sausage with the creamy richness of cheese and eggs, all tied together with a biscuit base. Easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests, it’s the perfect recipe to keep in your rotation.
Whether you’re making it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, Monterey Sausage Pie is always a hit. Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a permanent family favorite.
