Why You’ll Love This Monterey Sausage Pie

This recipe is a game-changer for home cooks who love big, bold flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. The secret? The batter bakes right in the pie dish, forming its own crust as it cooks. That means no rolling out dough, no blind baking – just mix, pour, and bake. The sage-infused batter pairs beautifully with savory sausage and sweet vegetables, while the Monterey Jack cheese melts into a gooey, irresistible layer that keeps the filling rich and satisfying.

Ingredients – and Why They Work

Each ingredient in this Monterey Sausage Pie plays an important role in delivering its signature flavor and texture.

• 1 pound sausage – The star of the dish. Use breakfast sausage for a savory, slightly peppery taste, or opt for a mild Italian sausage for a herby twist.
• 1 sweet onion – Adds natural sweetness and balances the richness of the sausage. Walla Walla or Vidalia onions are perfect here.
• 1 cup diced red bell pepper – Bright color and a subtle sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1/2 cup diced mushrooms – Brings an earthy, umami depth that complements both the meat and cheese.
• 3 teaspoons minced garlic – A must-have aromatic that ties the savory flavors together.
• 1⅓ cups milk – Creates the base for the batter and ensures a tender, moist crust.
• 3 eggs – Binds the batter and adds structure.
• 3/4 cup Bisquick or biscuit mix – Forms the self-making crust that holds the pie together.
• 3/4 teaspoon sage – A warm, earthy herb that pairs beautifully with sausage.
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper – Just enough spice to balance the flavors.
• 2½ cups grated Monterey Jack cheese – The creamy, melty layer that makes this pie irresistible.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare – Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a deep-dish pie plate with non-stick spray.
2. Cook the Sausage – In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the sausage until it’s no longer pink. Break it into small crumbles as it cooks.
3. Add the Vegetables – Dice the onion, mushrooms, and red bell pepper. Stir them into the sausage along with the minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5–7 minutes.
4. Drain Excess Grease – Remove extra grease from the skillet to keep the pie from becoming greasy.
5. Transfer to Pie Plate – Spread the sausage and vegetable mixture evenly in the prepared dish.
6. Add the Cheese – Sprinkle all of the Monterey Jack cheese over the sausage mixture.
7. Mix the Batter – In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, Bisquick, sage, and pepper until smooth.
8. Pour Over Filling – Evenly pour the batter over the cheese and sausage mixture.
9. Bake – Place the pie in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and set in the center.
10. Cool and Serve – Let the pie rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes serving easier.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Monterey Sausage Pie

• Use freshly grated cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting.
• Don’t skip draining the grease – This step ensures a clean, flavorful pie without excess oil pooling at the bottom.
• Experiment with add-ins – Spinach, zucchini, or jalapeños can add extra flavor and texture.
• Make it ahead – Assemble the filling the night before, refrigerate, and add the batter just before baking.

Serving Suggestions

This Monterey Sausage Pie is a versatile dish that works for any meal of the day:

• Breakfast or Brunch – Serve with a fresh fruit salad and coffee for a crowd-pleasing start to the day.
• Lunch – Pair with a crisp green salad and a light vinaigrette.
• Dinner – Add roasted vegetables or a baked potato for a hearty evening meal.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

What sets this Monterey Sausage Pie apart is its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The sausage brings hearty, savory richness, the vegetables add natural sweetness and freshness, and the cheese ties everything together with creamy, melty goodness. Best of all, it’s a one-dish wonder that requires minimal prep and clean-up.