Italian Ham Pie
A hearty Italian ham pie combining ricotta, meats, and cheese in a savory filling, perfect for family dinners or gatherings with rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix ricotta cheese, sliced pepperoni, ham, salami, eggs, milk, parsley, grated cheese, and pepper in a large bowl until well combined.
- Fill pie crusts (bottom and top) with the mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the filling is set and golden on top.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like basil or oregano in addition to parsley. You can substitute the hard salami with any cured meat of your choice, such as prosciutto. If you're short on time, pre-made pie crusts can save you effort, or try a phyllo dough for a lighter texture. This pie can also be made ahead of time and served at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Italian Ham Pie warm or at room temperature as a hearty main dish. It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving with garlic bread or alongside a slice of Fettuccine Carbonnara. This pie is also great for brunch or as a picnic dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This dish also freezes well; just ensure it's tightly wrapped.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Ham Pie contains roughly 558 calories, with 34g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (150% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 825mg per serving (36% 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 pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance. Assemble it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Bake it the next day as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
You can substitute ricotta cheese with cottage cheese for a lower-fat option or cream cheese for a richer flavor. If you choose cottage cheese, blend it until smooth for a similar texture to ricotta.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the meats and adding more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You might also want to increase the amount of cheese to maintain a hearty filling consistency.
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).