Quick Overview
If you are looking for a delicious and straightforward dish that everyone will love, this easy ham pie recipe is just what you need. This delightful dish combines tender ham with a flaky crust, making it an ideal comfort food for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a gathering or simply want to treat your family to something special, this easy ham pie is sure to impress. In just a few simple steps and with minimal ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will have your guests asking for seconds.
Ingredient Breakdown
Ham
For this recipe, you’ll need 2 cups of cooked ham, diced into small pieces. Using leftover ham works perfectly as it adds great flavor and reduces waste. The richness of the ham enhances the overall taste of the pie.
Pie Crust
You will require one pre-made or homemade pie crust. A standard 9-inch crust is ideal. This forms the base and top layer of your ham pie while providing a flaky texture that complements the filling wonderfully.
Cheese
One cup of shredded cheese is necessary; cheddar works best due to its sharpness and melting quality. Cheese adds creaminess and binds the ingredients together nicely in every bite.
Eggs
You need two large eggs for this recipe. Eggs serve as a binding agent, helping to hold the filling together while adding moisture. They also contribute to the rich flavor profile of the dish.
Milk
A half-cup of milk is essential for creating a creamy filling. Whole milk provides richness; however, any kind will work well. The milk helps in blending all the ingredients smoothly.
Step By Step Recipe: Easy Ham Pie Recipe
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C). This ensures that your oven is at the right temperature when you put your pie in, allowing it to bake evenly and thoroughly.
Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of diced cooked ham with 1 cup of shredded cheese. Add two beaten eggs and half a cup of milk into the mixture. Stir everything together until well combined; this forms your delicious filling.
Roll Out the Pie Crust
Roll out your pre-made or homemade pie crust on a floured surface until it fits your 9-inch pie dish comfortably. Make sure itβs even in thickness so that it cooks uniformly without burning or undercooking in spots.
Assemble the Pie
Place one portion of the rolled-out crust into your greased pie dish. Pour your filling mixture into this crust evenly spread it across so every slice has equal amounts of deliciousness.
Cover with Top Crust
Carefully place another rolled-out crust over the top of your filled pie. Seal the edges by crimping them together with your fingers or using a fork to ensure no filling leaks out during baking.
Bake in Oven
Place your assembled pie into the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid over-browning while ensuring it cooks through completely.
Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This cooling time helps set up the filling properly, making each slice neat when serving.
Serving and Storing Tips
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of this easy ham pie warm alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs well with mustard or a tangy sauce on the side for added flavor if desired.
Storage Guidelines
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven before serving again to retain its flavors and textures.
This easy ham pie recipe not only satisfies hunger but also brings smiles around the dinner tableβperfectly simple yet utterly delightful!
Mistakes to avoid
One common mistake to avoid when making an easy ham pie recipe is using the wrong type of ham. Always select cooked ham that is moist and flavorful. Avoid dry or overly salty ham, as it can ruin the dish’s overall taste. Ensuring that your ingredients are fresh and high quality will significantly enhance the flavor profile of your pie.
Another mistake is not preheating the oven. Always preheat your oven before placing the pie inside. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve a golden-brown crust. If you skip this step, the pie might not cook properly, leading to a soggy bottom or unevenly cooked filling.
Overfilling the pie crust is another common error. While it may be tempting to add more filling for extra flavor, too much filling can cause overflow during baking. This not only results in a messy oven but can also lead to undercooked sections of the pie. Stick to recommended quantities for best results.
Not allowing the pie to cool before slicing is another mistake to avoid. Letting it rest for at least 10-15 minutes after baking allows the filling to set properly. Slicing too soon can cause the filling to spill out, resulting in a less appealing presentation and messy serving.
Lastly, neglecting seasoning can lead to bland flavors in your easy ham pie recipe. Always season your filling appropriately with herbs, spices, or even a dash of mustard for an extra kick. Taste as you go along, adjusting seasonings until you achieve a well-balanced flavor.
Tips and tricks
Start by preparing your crust ahead of time if you’re using homemade dough for your easy ham pie recipe. A chilled crust will hold its shape better while baking and result in a flakier texture. When rolling out your dough, sprinkle flour on both surfacesβyour work area and the rolling pinβto prevent sticking.
When selecting ham for your recipe, consider using leftover holiday ham or deli slices that offer good flavor without being too salty. Diced honey or smoked ham works wonderfully in this dish as they add complexity without overwhelming other flavors.
For added richness in taste, consider mixing in vegetables like sautΓ©ed onions or bell peppers into your filling mix. These ingredients complement the ham beautifully while adding color and nutrition.
To achieve a perfect golden crust on top of your easy ham pie recipe, brush it lightly with an egg wash before baking. This simple technique enhances color and gives that appealing shine that makes pies look irresistible.
If you’re short on time or prefer convenience, store-bought crusts can save you effort without sacrificing flavor. Many brands offer delicious options that are ready to use, ensuring you still enjoy a tasty ham pie with minimal prep time.
Lastly, feel free to experiment with different cheeses in your filling! Cheddar adds sharpness while Swiss brings nuttiness; both pair well with ham. Mixing cheeses can elevate flavors further and create a unique twist on traditional recipes.
Suggestions for Easy Ham Pie Recipe
Consider serving your easy ham pie with a light salad on the side for balance; fresh greens dressed simply will complement the rich flavors of the pie without overwhelming them. A vinaigrette adds brightness if you want something tangy alongside.
If you’re looking for variations on this dish, think about adding fruit like diced apples or pears into the filling mix for a sweet contrast against savory ingredients. This unexpected twist can surprise guests and make them appreciate new flavor combinations.
Pairing your easy ham pie with a side of creamy mashed potatoes is another excellent suggestion; their smooth texture complements the flaky pastry perfectly while creating a hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy everyoneβs appetite.
For leftovers, consider repurposing slices into breakfast sandwiches by adding eggs and cheese between toasted bread; this provides an exciting way to enjoy any remaining pieces and minimizes food waste deliciously.
Lastly, when entertaining guests, you might want to make mini versions of this easy ham pie recipe in muffin tins for bite-sized treats that are perfect for appetizers or parties; these individual servings allow everyone to enjoy them at their convenience.
FAQs
What type of crust is best for an easy ham pie recipe?
A flaky pastry crust works best for an easy ham pie recipe because it provides texture and enhances overall flavor. You can use either homemade dough or pre-made options from stores that are equally delicious. Ensure it’s chilled prior to baking for optimal results!
Can I use leftover holiday ham in my easy ham pie?
Absolutely! Leftover holiday ham is an excellent choice for this easy ham pie recipe because it adds rich flavor without additional cooking time required. Just dice it into small pieces before mixing it into your filling mixture for added convenience.
How long should I bake my easy ham pie?
Typically, bake your easy ham pie at 375Β°F (190Β°C) for about 30-40 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and crispy. Check occasionally during baking; if edges brown too quickly, cover them loosely with foil until finished cooking.
Can I freeze my easy ham pie?
Yes! Freezing is an effective way to preserve any leftovers from your easy ham pie recipe or even unbaked pies ready-to-go when needed later on! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil before freezing; thaw overnight before reheating when ready to serve again!
Is there a vegetarian version of this easy ham pie?
Certainly! For a vegetarian version of this dish, replace diced ham with mushrooms or roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers along with cheese if desiredβthis creates a flavorful alternative while still maintaining similar textures within each slice!
What should I serve with my easy ham pie?
Pairing sides like light salads dressed in vinaigrette adds balance against rich flavors found within each slice while keeping meals refreshing overall! Consider offering mashed potatoes as well since their creamy nature complements flaky pastries wonderfully!
Summary
In summary, mastering an easy ham pie recipe involves avoiding common mistakes such as incorrect ingredient choices and improper baking techniques while incorporating useful tips throughout preparation stagesβensuring delightful outcomes every time! Remember suggestions like pairing sides effectively elevate meals further creating enjoyable dining experiences around family gatherings or casual lunches alike!
