Are you looking for a warm, hearty, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any meal of the day? Look no further! This Monterey Sausage Pie recipe is a delightful combination of savory sausage, colorful vegetables, creamy cheese, and a hint of aromatic spices, all baked into a golden crust. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, planning a cozy dinner, or simply craving a comforting homemade meal, this savory pie is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the delicious details of creating this culinary masterpiece!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different type of meat instead of sausage? A: Absolutely! While sausage adds a rich flavor to this dish, you can substitute it with ground beef, turkey, or chicken if you prefer.
Q: Can I make this pie ahead of time? A: Yes! You can prepare the pie ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze any leftover slices of Monterey Sausage Pie. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I customize the vegetables in this recipe? A: Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the red pepper, onion, and mushrooms for your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of sausage
- 1 cup of diced red pepper
- 1 sweet onion diced (Walla Walla or Vidalia)
- 1/2 cup of diced mushrooms, brown or white
- 3 teaspoons of fresh minced garlic or equivalent
- 1 and 1/3 cups of milk
- 3 eggs
- 3/4 cup of Bisquick or similar baking mix
- 3/4 teaspoon of sage
- 1/4 teaspoon of pepper
- 2 and 1/2 cups of Monterey Jack cheese, grated
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9-inch pie dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through, breaking it up into crumbles with a spoon. Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet and drain any excess grease.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the diced red pepper, sweet onion, and mushrooms. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Prepare the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, Bisquick, sage, and pepper until well combined.
5. Assemble the Pie:
Spread the cooked sausage evenly across the bottom of the prepared pie dish. Top with the sautéed vegetables and half of the grated Monterey Jack cheese.
6. Pour the Batter:
Pour the prepared batter over the sausage and vegetables in the pie dish, ensuring an even distribution.
7. Add Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle the remaining grated Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the batter.
8. Bake:
Place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
9. Serve:
Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the sausage and add extra vegetables, such as diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, for a delicious vegetarian twist.
- Spice it Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture for an extra kick of heat.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, Swiss, or Gouda, for a unique flavor profile.
- Herbaceous Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil into the batter for added depth of flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
For a keto-friendly or low-carb version of this recipe, simply replace the Bisquick with almond flour or a combination of almond flour and coconut flour. Additionally, use full-fat dairy products such as heavy cream instead of milk, and opt for low-carb vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli.
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this delectable Monterey Sausage Pie, perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a savory breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a cozy dinner, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. With its customizable ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy the warmth and flavor of homemade comfort food any day of the week. So gather your ingredients and get ready to savor every delicious bite of this irresistible pie!
