Monterey Sausage Pie

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked. Break it into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside. Drain excess grease, leaving about 1 teaspoon in the skillet.
3. In the same skillet, sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. Return the sausage to the skillet, stir in oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface into a circle large enough to fit your pie dish. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie pan and press it into the edges. Trim any excess dough.
3. Layer half of the shredded cheeses on the bottom of the crust.
4. Spread the sausage and vegetable mixture evenly over the cheese.
5. Top with the remaining cheese.

Step 4: Make the Custard

1. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk (or cream) until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture evenly over the filling in the pie.

Tip: Gently shake the pie pan to let the custard settle between the sausage and cheese layers.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

1. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
2. Let the pie cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold together and makes serving easier.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped green onions adds extra flavor.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 2–3 days and are delicious reheated.

Tips for Success

• Cheese choice matters: Monterey Jack provides creaminess, while cheddar adds a sharp kick. Mixing both balances the flavor.
• Don’t overfill: Too much filling can cause the custard to overflow.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the filling a day in advance; assemble and bake when ready.

This Monterey Sausage Pie is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s versatile for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. With its golden crust, cheesy layers, and savory sausage, it’s the kind of recipe that becomes a family favorite in no time.

If you want, I can also make a step-by-step illustrated version of this recipe, showing exactly how it looks at each stage—almost like a mini cooking guide with pictures.

Do you want me to do that?