Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Blind Bake the Pie Crust: Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Use a fork to prick the bottom of the crust to prevent puffing up. Cover with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
- Bake: Blind bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove the parchment paper and weights. Bake for an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage Filling
- Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. Remove from heat.
- Season: Stir in paprika, cumin, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to incorporate the spices with the sausage.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
- Mix the Eggs and Cream: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard until smooth and combined. Season with a little salt and pepper.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese into the egg mixture.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
- Layer the Sausage: Spread the sausage mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared pie crust.
- Pour the Filling: Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the sausage. Use a spatula to smooth the top and ensure everything is evenly distributed.
Step 5: Bake the Pie
- Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. The center should no longer jiggle when gently shaken.
- Cool Slightly: Allow the pie to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing to make it easier to serve.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish: For a fresh touch, sprinkle chopped parsley on top.
- Enjoy: Slice and serve the pie warm. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of mashed potatoes.
Tips for Perfect Monterey Sausage Pie
- Sausage Varieties: You can use any type of sausage—pork, turkey, or chicken. For an extra kick, try using spicy Italian sausage or chorizo.
- Cheese Swap: If you don’t have Monterey Jack, you can substitute it with mozzarella, Gouda, or even Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetable Add-ins: For more texture and nutrition, add vegetables like sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the sausage mixture before baking.
- Make-Ahead: This pie can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Salads: Serve with a simple mixed green salad or coleslaw for a lighter side.
- Vegetable Sides: Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus are great accompaniments.
- Mashed Potatoes: If you want to make the meal even heartier, creamy mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes would be delicious alongside.
Conclusion
This Monterey Sausage Pie is an ideal dish for cozy dinners, brunches, or potlucks. It’s loaded with savory sausage, gooey cheese, and a custardy filling, all wrapped up in a flaky crust. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, this pie is sure to become a go-to favorite!