Monterey Sausage Cheese Pie (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Meat & Dairy

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

→ Vegetables

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

→ Dry Ingredients

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

# Instructions:

01 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bulk pork sausage and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until thoroughly browned, about 7 to 8 minutes. Drain on paper towels, reserving 1 tablespoon of drippings.
02 - Return the skillet with the reserved drippings to medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and green bell pepper. Sauté until softened and onions are translucent, approximately 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
03 - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray, coating both sides and bottom.
04 - Evenly spread the cooked sausage across the bottom of the prepared pie dish. Top with the sautéed onions and green bell pepper. Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the vegetables.
05 - In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs until smooth. Add half-and-half and whisk to combine. Incorporate the flour, baking powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper; whisk until the mixture is smooth and lump-free.
06 - Carefully pour the custard mixture over the layered ingredients in the pie dish, allowing it to seep evenly throughout. Gently tap the dish to release air bubbles. Place the pie dish on a baking sheet and transfer to the oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set when tested with a knife.
07 - Allow the pie to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. Optionally, garnish with chopped green onions or chives for added flavor and presentation. Serve warm with a fresh green salad or as part of a brunch selection.

# Notes:

01 - To ensure even cooking, use a preheated oven and avoid opening the oven door frequently during baking.