Ultimate Ham and Cheese Pie: A Deliciously Simple Recipe

## Introduction

The ham and cheese pie is a timeless classic, a comforting and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even as a satisfying snack. Its simplicity belies its incredible flavor, and it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover ham or cheese. This recipe aims to provide a foolproof guide to creating a perfectly balanced and utterly delicious ham and cheese pie that will impress your family and friends. We’ll walk you through each step, offering tips and variations to customize it to your liking. From the flaky crust to the savory filling, this guide will equip you with everything you need to master this culinary staple.

## Why This Recipe Works

This ham and cheese pie recipe stands out because it focuses on achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures. We pay close attention to:

* **Crust Perfection:** We’ll explore options for both homemade and store-bought crusts, offering guidance on how to achieve a flaky, golden-brown crust that complements the filling perfectly.
* **Flavorful Filling:** The filling is carefully crafted to ensure a harmonious blend of savory ham, rich cheese, and a creamy custard base. We’ll discuss different types of ham and cheese to use, allowing you to tailor the flavor profile to your preferences.
* **Easy Customization:** This recipe is incredibly adaptable. We’ll provide suggestions for adding vegetables, herbs, and spices to create your own unique variations.
* **Detailed Instructions:** Each step is explained clearly and concisely, ensuring that even novice bakers can achieve excellent results.

## Ingredients

Before you begin, gather all the necessary ingredients. This will streamline the cooking process and ensure that you have everything you need at your fingertips.

**For the Crust:**

* **Homemade Crust (Optional):**
* 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
* 1/2 cup ice water
* **Store-bought Crust (Recommended for simplicity):**
* 1 box (14.1 oz) refrigerated pie crusts (containing 2 crusts)

**For the Filling:**

* 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 1 cup diced ham (cooked)
* 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyere, Swiss, or a combination)
* 4 large eggs
* 1 cup milk or half-and-half
* 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)

## Equipment

* 9-inch pie dish
* Large skillet
* Mixing bowls
* Whisk
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Cutting board
* Knife
* Rolling pin (if making homemade crust)
* Aluminum foil or pie shield (optional, to prevent crust from browning too quickly)

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create a perfect ham and cheese pie every time.

### 1. Prepare the Crust

**If using store-bought crust:**

* Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
* Remove the pie crusts from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly. This will make them easier to work with and prevent them from cracking.
* Unroll one of the pie crusts and gently press it into the bottom and up the sides of your 9-inch pie dish. Crimp the edges decoratively or press them with a fork to seal.
* If you are blind-baking the crust (to prevent a soggy bottom), prick the bottom of the crust several times with a fork. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment paper and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until lightly golden.

**If making homemade crust:**

* In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
* Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The butter should still be in small pieces.
* Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
* Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
* On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a 12-inch circle. Gently transfer the dough to the pie dish, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides. Crimp the edges decoratively or press them with a fork to seal.
* Follow the blind-baking instructions above if desired.

### 2. Prepare the Filling

* Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
* Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
* Add the diced ham to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until lightly browned. This will enhance the flavor of the ham.
* Remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool slightly.
* In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (or half-and-half), heavy cream (if using), salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Ensure that the mixture is well combined and smooth.
* Add the cooked onion and ham mixture to the egg mixture and stir well to combine.
* Stir in the shredded cheese, reserving about 1/4 cup for topping. Distribute the cheese evenly throughout the filling.

### 3. Assemble and Bake the Pie

* Pour the ham and cheese filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
* Sprinkle the reserved cheese over the top of the filling.
* Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
* If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil or a pie shield.
* Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the filling to set properly.
* Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives, if desired.

## Tips for Success

* **Use high-quality ingredients:** The better the ingredients, the better the final product will taste. Opt for good-quality ham and cheese for the best flavor.
* **Don’t overmix the crust:** Overmixing the crust can result in a tough and dense texture. Mix only until the dough just comes together.
* **Blind-bake the crust:** If you’re concerned about a soggy bottom, blind-baking the crust is a great way to ensure a crisp and flaky base.
* **Let the filling cool slightly:** Cooling the filling slightly before adding it to the crust will help prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
* **Don’t overbake the pie:** Overbaking the pie can result in a dry and cracked filling. Bake until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
* **Let the pie cool before slicing:** Cooling the pie before slicing will allow the filling to set properly and prevent it from falling apart.

## Variations

This ham and cheese pie recipe is incredibly versatile and can be easily customized to your liking. Here are a few ideas:

* **Add Vegetables:** Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or asparagus into the filling for added flavor and nutrients.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
* **Use Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Swiss, provolone, or pepper jack, to create unique flavor combinations.
* **Add Herbs:** Enhance the flavor of the filling with fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Omit the ham and add more vegetables or a vegetarian sausage substitute for a meat-free option.
* **Crustless Option:** For a lighter option, skip the crust altogether and bake the filling in a greased pie dish or casserole dish.

## Serving Suggestions

This ham and cheese pie is delicious on its own, but it can also be served with a variety of accompaniments:

* **Salad:** A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing is a perfect complement to the rich and savory pie.
* **Soup:** Pair the pie with a bowl of creamy tomato soup or a hearty vegetable soup for a complete and satisfying meal.
* **Fruit:** Serve the pie with a side of fresh fruit, such as berries, melon, or grapes, for a refreshing contrast.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts make a healthy and flavorful side dish.
* **Breakfast or Brunch:** Serve the pie as part of a breakfast or brunch spread, alongside other favorites such as eggs, bacon, and toast.

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerate:** Leftover ham and cheese pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
* **Reheat:** To reheat the pie, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave, but the crust may become slightly soggy.
* **Freeze:** For longer storage, you can freeze the ham and cheese pie. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 350-450 per slice (depending on ingredients and portion size)
* Fat: 20-30g per slice
* Protein: 15-20g per slice
* Carbohydrates: 20-30g per slice

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

## Conclusion

The ham and cheese pie is a versatile and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its flaky crust, savory filling, and endless customization options, it’s sure to become a family favorite. This recipe provides a detailed and easy-to-follow guide to creating a perfectly balanced and utterly delicious ham and cheese pie. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of pure comfort food! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and create your own unique version of this classic dish. Happy baking!