Ham And Asparagus Pie
A creamy ham and asparagus pie with a cheesy topping, perfect for a comforting family meal or brunch, combining savory flavors and a crispy crust.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a saucepan.
- Stir in cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
- Gradually stir in milk until smooth.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until sauce comes to a boil. Boil for 1 minute.
- Stir a small amount of sauce into mayonnaise, then stir into mixture in saucepan.
- Add cooked, diced ham, cooked asparagus, and lemon juice; cook until heated through.
- Turn mixture into the baked deep dish pie shell.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Broil about 2 minutes until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider using sour cream instead of mayonnaise. If you want to enhance the flavor, add some grated nutmeg to the sauce. You can substitute the frozen asparagus with fresh asparagus, just blanch it briefly before adding. To make it a bit healthier, swap margarine for olive oil. This pie is also delicious with a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
This Ham and Asparagus Pie is perfect for brunch or a light dinner. Serve it with a fresh side salad or some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Fried Fresh Corn for a delightful contrast in flavors. You can also offer a chilled glass of white wine or iced tea to complement the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices on a microwave-safe plate, heating in 30-second intervals until hot, but be cautious as the crust may lose its crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Asparagus Pie contains roughly 1170 calories, with 7g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 81g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (34% of the Daily Value), calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1932mg per serving (84% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat instead of ham?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can use cooked chicken or turkey as alternatives. If you want a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables. Just make sure any substitutions are fully cooked before adding to the pie.
How do I know when the pie is done broiling?
Keep a close eye on the pie while it's broiling. It should take about 2 minutes for the cheese to become lightly browned. If it starts to brown too quickly or looks like it might burn, you can move it to a lower rack in the oven or turn off the broiler and let it finish baking in the oven.
Can I prepare the pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and place it in the pie shell a day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before broiling. This will ensure even cooking and a deliciously warm pie.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).