A Delightful Dive into Ham Pot Pie Recipe Perfection
Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's perfect for a cozy night in? Look no further than this ham pot pie recipe, a classic dish elevated to new heights. This recipe balances savory ham with a rich, creamy sauce, all nestled under a flaky, golden crust. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that's surprisingly easy to make!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings. Adjust quantities as needed for your family or guests.
For the Filling:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 cups cooked ham, cubed (leftover ham works perfectly!)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Crust:
- 1 box (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts (or your favorite homemade recipe!)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preparing the Savory Filling:
- Sauté the Vegetables: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the mushrooms and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until tender.
- Create the Creamy Base: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Incorporate the Ham and Seasonings: Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the cubed ham and heat through.
Assembling and Baking the Pot Pie:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Pour the ham and vegetable mixture into a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate or a similar oven-safe dish.
- Add the Crust: Carefully unfold one pie crust and place it over the filling. Crimp the edges to seal. Cut several slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Brush the top with the beaten egg for a beautiful golden brown finish.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Let the pot pie rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Tips and Variations for Your Ham Pot Pie:
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a little kick.
- Add Some Greens: Include a handful of chopped spinach or peas for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Use Different Vegetables: Feel free to substitute other vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or sweet potatoes.
- Make it a Single-Crust Pie: For a quicker option, use only one pie crust on the bottom.
- Homemade Crust Advantage: While store-bought crusts are convenient, a homemade crust will truly elevate the flavor of your ham pot pie.
Serving Suggestions:
This delicious ham pot pie is perfect on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread for dipping in the delicious creamy sauce. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would complement the richness of the pot pie beautifully.
This ham pot pie recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a truly satisfying and comforting meal! Remember to share your culinary creations on social media and tag us – we'd love to see your delicious results!