This Easy Impossible Ham Cheese Pie Will Change Your Dinner Game

The Magic of Impossible Ham Cheese Pie

Tired of complicated recipes that take hours to prepare? The Impossible Ham Cheese Pie is about to become your new favorite.

This clever recipe creates its own crust while baking! When you make an Impossible Ham Cheese Pie, you simply mix everything together and pour it into a pie plate. During baking, the flour in the mixture settles to form a soft “crust” on the bottom and sides, while the eggs and cheese create a fluffy, savory interior.

The Impossible Ham Cheese Pie is the ultimate weeknight solution when you need to feed hungry mouths in a hurry. Each slice delivers the perfect balance of protein-packed ham and melty cheese in every bite, without any fussy crust-making.

Nutrition Information Per Serving

NutrientAmount% Daily Value
Calories385
Total Fat24g31%
Saturated Fat12g60%
Cholesterol215mg72%
Sodium890mg39%
Total Carbohydrate15g5%
Dietary Fiber0g0%
Sugars5g
Protein26g52%

Based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Equipment & Ingredients for Your Impossible Ham Cheese Pie

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

ToolPurpose
9-inch pie plateMain baking dish for your Impossible Ham Cheese Pie
Large mixing bowlFor combining all ingredients
Medium mixing bowlFor mixing dry ingredients separately
WhiskEssential for beating eggs and creating smooth batter
Measuring cupsFor accurate measurement of liquid ingredients
Measuring spoonsFor precise measurement of smaller quantities
Cutting boardSafe surface for preparing ingredients
Sharp knifeFor dicing ham and green onions
Box graterFor shredding cheese (if not using pre-shredded)
SpatulaFor scraping bowl and smoothing mixture in pie plate
Oven mittsProtection when handling hot pie plate
Cooling rackFor proper cooling after baking

Complete Ingredients List

IngredientQuantityNotes
Butter1 tablespoonFor greasing pie plate
Diced ham1½ cupsAbout 8 oz (pre-cooked)
Shredded cheddar cheese1 cupAbout 4 oz
Chopped green onions¼ cupAbout 2-3 green onions
All-purpose flour½ cupRegular, not self-rising
Baking powder1 teaspoonCheck expiration date for freshness
Salt½ teaspoonTable salt works best
Black pepper¼ teaspoonFreshly ground adds more flavor
Large eggs4Room temperature works best
Whole milk1 cupBring to room temperature
Vegetable oil2 tablespoonsAny neutral cooking oil works

Optional Substitutions for Impossible Ham Cheese Pie

  • Ham: Use cooked bacon (8 strips, crumbled), leftover turkey, or rotisserie chicken instead
  • Cheddar cheese: Swap with Swiss, Colby, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère cheese
  • Whole milk: Substitute with 2% milk, evaporated milk, or half-and-half for varying richness
  • Green onions: Replace with 2 tablespoons finely chopped yellow onion, chives, or 1 tablespoon dried onion flakes
  • All-purpose flour: Use gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version (check that it contains xanthan gum)
  • Vegetable oil: Substitute with melted butter or olive oil for different flavor profiles

Super Detailed Step-by-Step Instructions for Impossible Ham Cheese Pie

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Preparation Phase

  1. Gather all ingredients for your Impossible Ham Cheese Pie:
    • Take all ingredients out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before starting (especially eggs and milk).
    • Place them on your counter arranged by dry and wet ingredients.
    • This helps everything mix more evenly and bake more consistently.
  2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C):
    • Turn the oven on first thing, as most ovens take at least 10-15 minutes to reach the proper temperature.
    • Make sure the rack is positioned in the center of the oven.
    • Remove any extra racks that might block heat circulation.
    • If you have an oven thermometer, check that the temperature is accurate.
  3. Prepare the pie plate:
    • Take a 9-inch pie plate and place it on a clean surface.
    • Unwrap 1 tablespoon of butter.
    • Using your fingers or a paper towel, thoroughly coat the bottom and sides of the pie plate with butter.
    • Make sure to cover all surfaces, including the corners, to prevent sticking.
    • If the butter is hard, warm it for 5-10 seconds in the microwave first.
  4. Prepare the ham:
    • Place ham on a clean cutting board.
    • Using a sharp knife, cut ham into small ¼-inch cubes.
    • You need 1½ cups of diced ham total.
    • Set aside in a small bowl.
    • TIP: If using packaged diced ham, still check the pieces and cut any larger chunks into smaller, even-sized pieces.
  5. Prepare the cheese:
    • If using a block of cheese, place a box grater on a plate or cutting board.
    • Grate 1 cup of cheddar cheese using the large holes of the grater.
    • TIP: Cold cheese is easier to grate than room temperature cheese.
    • If using pre-shredded cheese, measure out 1 cup and set aside.
  6. Prepare the green onions:
    • Rinse 2-3 green onions under cool water.
    • Pat dry with a paper towel.
    • Cut off and discard the root ends and any wilted tips.
    • Slice thinly, both white and green parts, until you have ¼ cup.
    • BEGINNER TIP: Use kitchen scissors instead of a knife for easier cutting.

Assembly Steps for Impossible Ham Cheese Pie

  1. Combine dry ingredients:
    • In a medium mixing bowl, add ½ cup all-purpose flour.
    • Add 1 teaspoon baking powder.
    • Add ½ teaspoon salt.
    • Add ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
    • Whisk these ingredients together for 30 seconds until well combined.
    • IMPORTANT: Make sure there are no lumps in the flour mixture.
  2. Mix wet ingredients:
    • In a large mixing bowl, crack 4 large eggs.
    • Whisk the eggs for 30 seconds until yolks and whites are fully combined.
    • Pour in 1 cup of whole milk.
    • Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
    • Whisk everything together for 30-60 seconds until well combined.
    • BEGINNER TIP: Crack each egg into a separate small bowl first to check for shells before adding to the main bowl.
  3. Combine wet and dry ingredients:
    • Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, about ⅓ at a time.
    • Whisk after each addition until smooth.
    • Continue until all dry ingredients are incorporated.
    • Whisk for another 30 seconds to ensure there are no lumps.
    • The batter should be thin, similar to pancake batter.
    • WARNING: Do not overmix; stop once ingredients are just combined.
  4. Add the fillings to your Impossible Ham Cheese Pie mixture:
    • Add the 1½ cups diced ham to the batter.
    • Add 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
    • Add ¼ cup chopped green onions.
    • Using a spatula or wooden spoon (not a whisk), gently fold these ingredients into the batter.
    • Stir just until everything is evenly distributed, about x10-15 gentle folds.
    • TIP: Overmixing at this stage can make the pie tough, so be gentle.
  5. Transfer to pie plate:
    • Carefully pour the entire mixture into your greased pie plate.
    • Use a spatula to scrape all batter from the bowl.
    • Gently tap the pie plate on the counter 2-3 times to remove any air bubbles.
    • Use the spatula to ensure fillings are evenly distributed if needed.
    • BEGINNER TIP: Place your pie plate on a baking sheet before filling for easier handling and to catch any potential overflow.

Cooking Phase for Impossible Ham Cheese Pie

  1. Bake the Impossible Ham Cheese Pie:
    • Carefully place the filled pie plate on the center rack of your preheated oven.
    • If using a baking sheet underneath, make sure it doesn’t block heat circulation.
    • Close the oven door gently to avoid disturbing the batter.
    • Set a timer for 25 minutes.
    • IMPORTANT: Do not open the oven door during the first 20 minutes of baking, as this can cause the pie to collapse.
  2. Check for doneness:
    • After 25 minutes, check if the pie is done without removing it from the oven:
      • The top should be golden brown.
      • The center should look set and not jiggly.
      • The edges should be pulling away slightly from the sides of the pie plate.
    • If not done, continue baking for 5-10 more minutes.
    • BEGINNER TIP: Insert a knife or toothpick in the center – if it comes out clean (no wet batter), the pie is done.

Cooling & Finishing Your Impossible Ham Cheese Pie

  1. Remove from oven:
    • Put on oven mitts to protect your hands.
    • Carefully remove the pie from the oven.
    • Place it on a heat-resistant surface or cooling rack.
    • WARNING: The pie plate will be extremely hot – always use proper protection.
  2. Rest before serving:
    • Allow the Impossible Ham Cheese Pie to rest for at least 10 minutes.
    • During this time, the pie will continue cooking slightly and will set fully.
    • This resting period is crucial for clean slices and proper texture.
    • TIP: Use this time to prepare a simple side salad or vegetable to complete the meal.
  3. Slice and serve your Impossible Ham Cheese Pie:
    • After resting, use a sharp knife to cut the pie into 4 equal wedges.
    • For cleanest cuts, wipe the knife clean between slices.
    • Use a pie server or spatula to lift each slice onto plates.
    • Serve warm with your choice of side dish.
    • Garnish with additional chopped green onions if desired.
    • PRESENTATION TIP: Add a small dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of paprika for an attractive finish.
impossible ham cheese pie

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Impossible Ham Cheese Pie

Problem: Pie is too runny in the center

Solution:

  • Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes with aluminum foil loosely covering the top.
  • Check that your oven temperature is accurate; consider using an oven thermometer.
  • Make sure you measured the flour correctly; too little flour can cause runniness.

Problem: The edges are burning but center isn’t done

Solution:

  • Reduce oven temperature to 375°F.
  • Cover just the edges with strips of aluminum foil.
  • Continue baking until center is set.
  • Next time, place the pie plate on a lower rack in the oven.

Problem: Pie collapsed after removing from oven

Solution:

  • Check the expiration date on your baking powder.
  • Don’t open the oven door during the first 20 minutes of baking.
  • Make sure eggs are at room temperature before mixing.
  • Allow the pie to cool in the oven with the door slightly open.

Problem: Ingredients settled to the bottom

Solution:

  • Make sure to whisk batter thoroughly before adding fillings.
  • Fold in ham and cheese gently but thoroughly.
  • Pour into pie plate immediately after mixing.
  • Tap the filled pie plate gently to remove air bubbles.

Variations & Substitutions for Impossible Ham Cheese Pie

Veggie Lovers’ Impossible Pie

Add ½ cup each of diced bell peppers and mushrooms to the base recipe. To prevent excess moisture, sauté vegetables in 1 teaspoon of olive oil for 3-4 minutes and cool before adding to the batter. For more ham-based recipes, check out our ham creations collection.

Breakfast Impossible Pie

Replace ham with ½ pound cooked breakfast sausage, crumbled. Add ¼ teaspoon of dried sage and a pinch of nutmeg for a morning-friendly version. Serve with maple syrup on the side. If you enjoy breakfast ham and cheese combinations, you might also like these ham and cheese bites.

Spicy Southwest Impossible Pie

Add ¼ cup diced green chilies (drained if using canned), ½ teaspoon cumin, and ¼ teaspoon oregano. Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar and top with sliced avocado after baking.

Italian-Style Impossible Pie

Swap ham for ¼ pound cooked Italian sausage, use mozzarella cheese instead of cheddar, and add 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, ¼ cup diced bell peppers, and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil.

Storage & Reheating Instructions for Impossible Ham Cheese Pie

Refrigerator Storage

  • Cool completely before storing (about 1 hour).
  • Cover the entire pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil if storing whole.
  • Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap if storing portions.
  • Store in refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Label with date to track freshness.

Freezing Instructions

  • Cool the Impossible Ham Cheese Pie completely.
  • Cut into individual portions for easier thawing.
  • Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
  • Place wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe container or bag.
  • Label with name, date, and contents.
  • Freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Methods for Impossible Ham Cheese Pie

  • Microwave Method:
    1. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate.
    2. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
    3. Heat for 1 minute at 70% power.
    4. Check temperature; heat for additional 30-second intervals if needed.
    5. Let stand for 1 minute before eating.
  • Oven Method:
    1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
    2. Place slice(s) on a baking sheet lined with foil.
    3. Cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.
    4. Heat for 10-15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
    5. For extra crispness, remove foil for the last 2 minutes.
  • Air Fryer Method:
    1. Preheat air fryer to 350°F.
    2. Place slice in the air fryer basket, leaving space around it.
    3. Heat for 3-4 minutes until warmed through and edges are crispy.
    4. Check halfway through and adjust time as needed.

Safety Notes & Important Tips for Impossible Ham Cheese Pie

Food Safety

  • Ensure ham is properly cooked before adding to the Impossible Ham Cheese Pie.
  • Wash hands thoroughly after handling raw eggs.
  • Keep eggs refrigerated until ready to use.
  • Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking.
  • Always use a clean knife when cutting leftover pie.
  • Heat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F.

Time-Saving Tips

  • Prep ingredients the night before and store in sealed containers in the refrigerator.
  • Use pre-diced ham and pre-shredded cheese to cut prep time in half.
  • Make two Impossible Ham Cheese Pies at once and freeze one for later use.
  • Measure out all ingredients before starting to streamline the process.
  • Use a food processor with a grating attachment for quick cheese shredding.

Perfect Pairing Suggestions

This Impossible Ham Cheese Pie pairs wonderfully with:

  • A simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing
  • Steamed broccoli or green beans
  • Fresh fruit salad for a sweet contrast
  • Tomato soup for a comforting meal

For a variation with different cheese profiles, check out our ham and provolone recipe.

For Best Results with Your Impossible Ham Cheese Pie

  • Use room temperature eggs and milk for the smoothest batter.
  • Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-packaged shredded cheese.
  • Don’t overmix the batter once the ham and cheese are added.
  • Let the pie rest for the full 10 minutes before cutting for cleaner slices.
  • For extra flavor, add 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the batter.
  • Use a glass pie plate rather than metal for more even baking.

With these detailed instructions, you’ll create a perfect Impossible Ham Cheese Pie every time! This recipe is sure to become a family favorite that you’ll make again and again.

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