Ham Torte
A savory ham and cheese torte layered with potatoes, spinach, and onions, baked to golden perfection—ideal for brunch, lunch, or a comforting dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Press the first crust into the bottom and up the sides of a pan.
- Sprinkle one-third of the cheese on the bottom crust.
- Layer half of the ham, half of the potatoes, and half of the onion slices over the cheese.
- Spread the thawed and drained spinach evenly over the onion layer.
- Top with another third of the cheese, then add the remaining ham, potatoes, and onions.
- Sprinkle the remaining one-third of the cheese over the onion layer.
- Gently press the mixture into the pan.
- Place the second crust on top and pinch to seal the edges.
- Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Mix the egg and water well to make an egg wash.
- Brush the top crust with the egg mixture.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight if desired.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 55 to 70 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting low-fat cheese and using turkey or chicken ham. If fresh spinach is available, you can use it instead of frozen by sautéing it briefly to reduce moisture. Make sure the potatoes are sliced thinly for even cooking. This recipe can be prepped a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld overnight.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ham Torte warm alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Lemony Potatoes for a vibrant side dish. For a heartier option, consider serving with a side of roasted vegetables. This dish also makes for a great brunch item, perfect for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in a microwave for a minute or two, or bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Avoid reheating more than once to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Torte contains roughly 705 calories, with 26g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (57% of the Daily Value), protein (52% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 749mg per serving (33% 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 make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian by omitting the ham and adding more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. You could also incorporate ingredients from vegetarian recipes to enhance the flavor profile.
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
To prevent a soggy crust, ensure that the spinach is thoroughly drained and that the potatoes are sliced thinly. Pre-baking the bottom crust for about 10 minutes can also help create a barrier, keeping it crispy. Additionally, avoid overloading the filling with moisture-rich ingredients.
Can I freeze the Ham Torte?
Absolutely! You can freeze the Ham Torte before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed. It can be stored frozen for up to 2 months.
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).