Rice-Crusted Ham 'N Swiss Pie
A savory rice crust filled with ham, Swiss cheese, and fried onions, topped with a creamy milk and egg mixture—perfect for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thoroughly combine cooked rice, melted butter, and one slightly beaten egg. Press lightly against sides and bottom of an ungreased 9-inch pie plate to form crust.
- Layer chopped cooked ham, shredded Swiss cheese, and 1/2 cup fried onions inside the rice crust.
- In a bowl, combine milk, remaining 2 eggs, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the ham, cheese, and onion filling.
- Bake in a preheated oven for 25 minutes. Top with remaining fried onions and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove from oven, let cool slightly, and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier crust, ensure the rice is well-pressed against the pie plate. If you don't have Swiss cheese, Gruyère or mozzarella can be good substitutes. You can also add sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor. Make sure to use leftover ham for a quick meal, similar to how you would with pork recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color. This pie pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Doris' Seven-Layered Salad for a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power until warmed through, about 1-2 minutes. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes for a crispier texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice-Crusted Ham 'N Swiss Pie contains roughly 944 calories, with 21g protein, 174g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (54% of the Daily Value), calcium (49% of the Daily Value), and protein (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 939mg per serving (41% 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 brown rice instead of white rice for the crust?
Yes, brown rice can be used as a healthier alternative. Just make sure it is fully cooked and cooled before mixing it with the butter and egg for the crust. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still hold together nicely.
What can I add to the filling for more flavor?
You can enhance the filling by adding sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even some spices like paprika or garlic powder. For a twist, consider adding some chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to complement the ham and cheese.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, this pie freezes well. Make sure to cool it completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in the oven until heated through.
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).