Sausage Monterey Pie (Print Version)

Flavorful pork sausage with dual cheeses in a puffy custard base - works for breakfast, dinner or anything between.

# Ingredients:

→ Meat & Dairy

01 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
02 - 4 large eggs
03 - 1 pound bulk pork sausage
04 - 2 cups half-and-half
05 - 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, freshly shredded

→ Vegetables

06 - 1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
07 - 2 tablespoons green onions or chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)
08 - 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped

→ Dry Ingredients

09 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
10 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
11 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
12 - 1 cup all-purpose flour

# Steps:

01 - Warm up a big skillet on medium heat. Toss in the sausage and stir as it browns, breaking it into small bits (roughly 7-8 minutes). Drain excess grease on paper towels but leave a small spoonful of drippings in the pan.
02 - Put the skillet back on medium heat and toss in the onions and bell peppers (if using). Stir and cook until they soften and turn translucent, about five minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and set aside.
03 - Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up. Use butter or a spray to coat the entire inside of a 9-inch pie dish.
04 - In the pie dish, lay down the cooked sausage evenly. Then add the sautéed veggies in a layer and sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack on top.
05 - Grab a bowl and whisk the eggs until smooth. Stir in the half-and-half, then mix in the flour, seasoning, and baking powder until it all blends together.
06 - Carefully pour the egg mixture over the ingredients in the pie dish, letting it soak through. Give the dish a little tap on the counter to pop any bubbles.
07 - Place the dish on a baking sheet and slide it into the oven. Let it bake for 35-40 minutes until the top is nicely golden and the middle is firm. To check, stick a knife in the center—it should come out clean.
08 - Let the pie sit for about 5 minutes before slicing. Sprinkle with chopped chives or green onions, if you'd like. Serve it warm with a side salad or enjoy it at brunch.

# Notes:

01 - A flexible dish that works for breakfast, brunch, or dinner and heats up well later.
02 - Swap out the sausage for bacon or ham for a new twist.
03 - For more flavor, mix in some fresh herbs like sage, rosemary, or thyme.