Grandma’s Famous Monterey Sausage Pie
Some recipes are steeped in tradition, and Grandma’s Monterey Sausage Pie is a perfect example. Handed down through Midwestern and Southern kitchens, this comforting dish is pure hospitality tucked inside a flaky, golden crust. Savory sausage, gooey Monterey Jack cheese, and a rich egg custard come together to create a meal that feels like a loving hug straight from Grandma’s kitchen.
Unlike complicated quiches or layered casseroles, this hearty pie is wonderfully simple. With about 30 minutes of hands-on prep, it bakes up beautifully—puffed, golden, and irresistibly cheesy. Ideal for brunch, holidays, or unexpected guests, this recipe never fails to impress. And the best part? Grandma’s “secret” is surprisingly easy—and now it’s yours to share.
📝 Ingredients
For the Crust
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated pie crusts | 1 package (14.1 oz, 2 crusts) |
| Deep-dish pie crust (optional alternative) | 1 (9-inch) |
For the Filling
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground breakfast sausage (mild, hot, or maple) | 1 lb |
| Monterey Jack cheese, shredded | 1½ cups |
| Eggs | 4 large |
| Half-and-half or whole milk | 1 cup |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Onion powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
| Optional additions | 2 green onions, thinly sliced; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme |
🌶️ Grandma’s Secret Tip: A pinch of dry mustard or a splash of hot sauce in the custard adds a gentle kick that lifts all the flavors.
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and crumbled, about 6–8 minutes.
Drain excess grease and allow it to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Crust
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Press one pie crust into a 9-inch deep-dish or 10-inch standard pie plate.
💡 For extra flakiness: Prick the bottom with a fork and blind-bake for 8–10 minutes.
3. Layer the Filling
Evenly spread the cooked sausage over the crust.
Sprinkle with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and green onions, if using.
4. Mix the Custard
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Carefully pour the mixture over the sausage and cheese.
5. Add the Top Crust (Optional)
Place the second crust over the filling and crimp the edges to seal.
Cut 4–5 small slits in the top to vent steam.
🥧 Prefer an open pie? Skip the top crust for a quiche-style finish and reduce baking time by about 5 minutes.
6. Bake
Bake for 35–45 minutes, until the crust is deep golden and the center is fully set.
⏱️ Tip: If the edges brown too quickly, cover them loosely with foil.
Let the pie rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing to allow the custard to firm up.
7. Serve
Slice and serve warm alongside a fresh salad or fruit.
Perfect for brunch spreads, holiday meals, or cozy dinners at home.
Leftovers keep well, covered in the refrigerator, for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully.
