The Perfect Easter Breakfast Pie With Ham, Egg, Cheese and Spinach

Written by on in Lunch

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Introduction

Imagine waking up to the delightful aroma of a freshly baked pie, brimming with the flavors of ham, egg, cheese, and spinach. The Perfect Easter Breakfast Pie is not just a treat for your taste buds but a celebration of simple yet sophisticated ingredients coming together in harmony. Whether you’re serving it for brunch or as a savory addition to your Easter feast, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This breakfast pie is a fantastic blend of creamy, savory, and slightly tangy flavors, all wrapped up in a flaky crust. It’s versatile enough to be customized with your favorite cheeses and toppings, making it a dish that you can easily adapt to suit your preferences. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for gatherings, ensuring you’ll be asked for the recipe time and time again!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • 9-inch springform pan
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Large frying pan
  • Whisk
  • Foil-lined baking sheet
  • Wire rack
  • Sharp knife

Ingredients

  • 2 prepared pie crusts
  • 8 ounces cooked, smoked ham, sliced in thin strips about 2 inches in length
  • 1 red bell pepper, core and seeds removed, sliced thin about 2 inches in length
  • 1 teaspoon olive or vegetable oil
  • 1 15-ounce container ricotta cheese
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon crushed garlic
  • 8 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and dried thoroughly
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 1 egg, beaten for top of crust

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan.
  3. Press one pie crust into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared pan.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, eggs, and garlic.
  5. Evenly spread the ricotta mixture over the bottom crust.
  6. Evenly spread the spinach over the ricotta layer.
  7. In a large frying pan, heat the oil. Add the ham and peppers.
  8. Cook until the peppers are tender, stirring occasionally.
  9. Remove from heat and evenly distribute the ham and peppers over the spinach.
  10. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the meat layer.
  11. Top with the remaining pie crust. Roll and crimp the edges to seal.
  12. With a sharp knife, cut four 1-inch slits in the top of the crust.
  13. Brush the top evenly with the remaining beaten egg.
  14. Place the pie on a foil-lined baking sheet.
  15. Bake on the middle rack of the oven for 50 minutes, or until the top of the crust is golden brown.
  16. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes on a wire rack.
  17. Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan.
  18. Continue to cool on the rack until set, approximately 20 minutes.
  19. Serve warm.

Tips for Success

  • Ensure the spinach is thoroughly dried to prevent excess moisture from making the pie soggy.
  • Use a variety of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
  • Let the pie cool adequately before removing it from the pan to ensure it holds its shape.

Additional Tips and Variations

  • For a lower-fat version, consider using light cheeses and fewer eggs.
  • Customize with your favorite toppings such as sliced mushrooms, green olives, or tomato slices.
  • Try different herbs like thyme or oregano for a twist on the classic flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This pie is rich in protein from the ham and eggs, and provides a good dose of iron from the spinach. The combination of cheeses adds calcium, making it a nutritious choice for breakfast.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this pie ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat it in the oven before serving.

Can I freeze this pie? Absolutely! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What if I don’t have a springform pan? A regular pie dish will work, but be careful when removing slices to maintain the shape.

Conclusion

The Perfect Easter Breakfast Pie is a delightful way to bring people together over a meal. Its rich flavors and beautiful presentation make it a standout dish for any occasion. I invite you to try this recipe, savor each bite, and share your experiences with family and friends. Bon appétit!

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