When it comes to quick meals that don’t sacrifice flavor, a savory pie is always a winner. This recipe brings together a fluffy crust with a creamy ham and cheese filling that melts in your mouth. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a festive gathering when you want something that feels homemade yet effortless.
The best part about this pie? It doesn’t require complicated dough-making or hours of preparation. With a blender, a few simple ingredients, and a bit of baking time, you’ll have a golden, cheesy, and super creamy pie that your family will love.
Why This Recipe Works
This savory pie strikes the right balance between convenience and taste. Instead of traditional pastry dough, which requires kneading and resting, the batter is made in a blender. This keeps the process quick while still delivering a light and fluffy crust.
The filling—ham, mozzarella, tomatoes, Parmesan, and a touch of cream cheese—makes every bite rich and satisfying. The layers of gooey cheese contrast perfectly with the salty ham and the freshness of tomatoes, creating a comforting yet well-rounded dish.
Ingredients for the Pie
For the Batter
- 3 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup oil (preferably sunflower or canola oil)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (wheat flour)
For the Filling
- 50 grams (1.75 oz) grated Parmesan cheese
- 300 grams (10.5 oz) sliced mozzarella cheese
- 2 ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 300 grams (10.5 oz) sliced ham
- Cream cheese spread (to taste)
Step-by-Step Preparation
Preparing the Batter
- In a blender, add the milk, eggs, oil, salt, and cornstarch. Blend for about one minute until smooth.
- Gradually add the flour while blending to avoid lumps and ensure a uniform texture.
- Finally, add the baking powder and pulse gently to incorporate it without overmixing.
Assembling the Pie
- Grease and flour a baking pan of medium size.
- Pour half of the batter into the pan, spreading it evenly.
- Add a layer of ham slices, followed by tomatoes and mozzarella cheese.
- Spread cream cheese over the top for extra creaminess.
- Pour the remaining batter over the filling, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and, if you like, arrange a few tomato slices on top for decoration.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Bake the pie for about 45 minutes, or until golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
- Allow the pie to cool for 10 minutes before removing it from the pan and serving.
Serving Suggestions
This pie can be enjoyed hot, warm, or even at room temperature. Here are some pairing ideas:
- For Lunch or Dinner: Serve with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.
- As a Snack or Brunch Item: Pair with coffee, tea, or fresh juice.
- For a Party: Cut into small squares and serve as finger food.
Variations to Try
Chicken and Cheese Pie
Swap out the ham for shredded cooked chicken. Add a pinch of oregano or thyme for extra flavor.
Vegetarian Version
Replace the ham with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini slices. Goat cheese can be used instead of mozzarella for a tangy twist.
Spicy Twist
Add sliced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the filling for a touch of heat.
Deluxe Option
Include layers of caramelized onions or olives for added depth of flavor.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overmix the batter: Once you add the baking powder, mix only briefly to keep the pie fluffy.
- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes: They balance the richness of the cheese and ham. If the tomatoes are too watery, pat them dry with paper towels before layering.
- Experiment with cheeses: While mozzarella gives that melt-in-your-mouth texture, you can also try cheddar, provolone, or gouda.
- Check for doneness: Every oven varies. If the top browns too quickly, cover with foil and continue baking.
- Let it rest before serving: Cooling for a few minutes helps the layers set and makes slicing easier.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freezer: You can freeze slices of the baked pie for up to 1 month. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven before serving for the best texture.
2. Can I use another type of cheese?
Absolutely. Cheddar, gouda, provolone, or even ricotta can work, depending on your taste preferences.
3. Do I need to cook the ham before adding it?
No, sliced deli ham can go straight into the pie. If using leftover roasted ham, slice it thinly before layering.
4. Can I make this pie without tomatoes?
Yes, but tomatoes add freshness. If you don’t like them, replace them with mushrooms, peppers, or spinach.
5. Why is my pie too dense?
Overmixing after adding baking powder or using too much flour can make the pie heavy. Blend just enough to combine the ingredients smoothly.
6. Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, you can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, though the texture may be slightly different.
Final Thoughts
This Easy and Quick Pie with Cheese and Ham Filling is a versatile recipe that works for both busy weeknights and special occasions. It combines the creaminess of cheese, the heartiness of ham, and the freshness of tomatoes—all wrapped in a light, blender-made batter. With minimal effort, you’ll have a golden, savory pie that satisfies the whole family.
Whether served fresh out of the oven or reheated the next day, this pie is comfort food at its best: simple, creamy, and irresistibly delicious.