Grandma’s Famous Monterey Sausage Pie 🥧

SAVE THIS!

A comforting, old-fashioned savory pie packed with juicy sausage, creamy eggs, and melty Monterey Jack cheese—just like the kind that disappeared fast at Grandma’s table.

📝 Description

This hearty sausage pie is a cross between a quiche and a breakfast casserole. It’s rich, satisfying, and wonderfully simple, making it perfect for family brunches, potlucks, or cozy dinners. One slice is never enough.

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

For the Filling

• 1 lb (450 g) breakfast sausage or mild Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra depth)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp paprika (optional)

For the Crust

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and set aside.
2. Cook the Sausage
   In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened. Drain excess grease.
3. Assemble the Pie
   Spread the sausage-onion mixture evenly over the pie crust. Sprinkle Monterey Jack (and cheddar, if using) on top.
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture
   In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth.
5. Bake
   Carefully pour the egg mixture over the filling.
   Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
6. Rest & Serve
   Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

🌍 Origin & Cultural Significance

Sausage pies like this became popular in American home kitchens during the mid-20th century—simple, filling meals that stretched ingredients and brought families together. Monterey Jack cheese adds a mild, creamy West Coast touch that made this version a household favorite.

🔁 Optional Additions

• Diced bell peppers or mushrooms
• A handful of fresh spinach
• A pinch of crushed red pepper for heat
• Swap sausage for turkey sausage or smoked beef sausage

✅ Tips for Success

• Blind-bake the crust for 8 minutes if you prefer an extra-crisp bottom.
• Let the pie rest before cutting for clean slices.
• Pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or roasted potatoes.

🥗 Approx. Nutritional Information (per slice)

• Calories: ~360
• Protein: ~16 g
• Fat: ~28 g
• Carbohydrates: ~14 g
  (Values vary by ingredients used)

🍽️ Conclusion

Grandma’s Famous Monterey Sausage Pie is pure comfort—warm, savory, and timeless. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, it’s the kind of recipe that earns a permanent spot in the family cookbook.