There's something truly comforting about a pie fresh from the oven, especially when it’s filled with the savory goodness of a Leftover Ham Pot Pie. The rich aroma wafting through the kitchen transports me to cozy family dinners where laughter mixes with the clinking of forks. I often find that cooking is a wonderful way to relive those cherished moments, and this pie is a delightful reminder of why homemade meals beat fast food any day.
After a holiday feast, I always stand before my fridge, surveying the leftover ham that deserves a delicious spotlight. This pot pie, brimming with tender veggies and a creamy sauce, gives those scraps a second life, creating a dish that's both satisfying and easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can impress your family or guests—leaving them blissfully content and wondering when you found the time to master such a delectable recipe.
So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delightful pot pie, perfect for any time of the year!
Why You'll Love This Leftover Ham Pot Pie
- This Leftover Ham Pot Pie is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
- The robust flavors of ham, veggies, and creamy filling come together to create a dish that everyone will love.
- Its versatility allows you to customize the filling based on your preferences or whatever you have on hand, ensuring you never get bored.
- Not only does it look stunning when served, but the golden crust and bubbling filling will also impress your guests and family alike.
- Lastly, it's a great way to utilize leftover ham, minimizing waste while creating a cozy meal that's sure to please.
Leftover Ham Pot Pie Ingredients
• Gather everything you need for a delightful Leftover Ham Pot Pie.
For the Filling
- Diced leftover ham – adds a savory flavor that makes the pot pie hearty.
- Diced carrots – bring sweetness and color to your dish.
- Peas – fresh or frozen, they add a pop of freshness and texture.
- Diced small potatoes – give a comforting, filling component to your pot pie.
- Finely chopped onion – enhances the flavor base, making it aromatic.
- Minced garlic – infuses a warm, savory taste that elevates the dish.
For the Sauce
- Unsalted butter – creates a rich, creamy sauce while controlling the salt level.
- All-purpose flour – helps thicken the sauce for that perfect pie filling.
- Milk (whole or 2%) – delivers creaminess, making the filling lusciously smooth.
- Salt – enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- Black pepper – adds a subtle kick to balance the richness.
- Paprika – contributes a hint of warmth and color to the sauce.
- Dried thyme – gives an earthy aroma that complements the dish perfectly.
For the Crust
- Refrigerated pie crusts – save time and ensure a flaky, delicious crust with minimal effort.
- Egg (beaten for egg wash) – adds a lovely golden shine to the crust during baking.
How to Make Leftover Ham Pot Pie
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a pie dish. This sets the stage for a perfectly baked pot pie with a golden crust.
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Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step fills your kitchen with a lovely aroma!
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Stir in the diced carrots, potatoes, and peas. Cook for 5–7 minutes until they’re slightly tender, adding color and nutrition to your filling.
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Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables and ham. Stir well to coat everything evenly, creating a thick base for your filling to shine.
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Pour in the milk gradually, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens — about 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme for ultimate flavor.
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Place one pie crust in the greased dish. Pour the creamy filling over the crust, spreading it out evenly to ensure every bite is delicious.
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Top with the second crust, trimming the edges as necessary. Cut small slits for steam to escape, then brush the top with beaten egg for a beautiful golden finish.
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Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the flavors to meld.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Leftover Ham Pot Pie Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own with delicious twists and swaps that will make every bite even more delightful.
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Vegetarian: Swap the ham for hearty mushrooms or jackfruit, seasoned with your favorite spices, for a plant-based option.
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Cheesy: Add shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella to the filling for a creamy, cheesy pot pie that melts in your mouth. Cheese lovers will revel in this twist on our classic recipe.
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Spicy: Toss in diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to bring a fiery kick to the creamy filling. This variation is perfect for those who love a little heat!
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Herbed: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley instead of dried thyme for a burst of fresh flavor. Each herb brings its unique aromas, making the dish even more inviting.
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Creamy Mushroom: Add sautéed mushrooms along with the ham for an earthy flavor boost that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. The combination creates a heartier pot pie experience.
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Mixed Veggies: Use whatever leftover vegetables you have on hand—corn, green beans, or even broccoli will work wonderfully. This ensures every pot pie is a surprise and is a great way to utilize whatever’s in your fridge.
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Sweet Potato: Replace the small potatoes with diced sweet potatoes for a healthier twist that adds subtle sweetness to the filling. The contrast of flavors will surprise your taste buds in the best way.
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Cornbread Topping: Instead of a traditional crust, use a cornbread batter poured over the filling before baking, resulting in a delightful and unique twist on our classic pot pie. The sweet cornbread crust can elevate the flavors even more.
Make Ahead Options
You can easily make your Leftover Ham Pot Pie ahead of time, saving you precious moments on a busy weeknight! Start by preparing the filling (diced ham, veggies, and sauce) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep everything fresh and flavorful. When you’re ready to bake, place one pie crust in your greased dish, fill it with your prepared filling, top with the second crust, and cut slits for steam. Then brush with the egg wash and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. This way, you’ll enjoy a comforting meal with minimal last-minute effort, just as delicious as if made fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Leftover Ham Pot Pie
Room Temperature: Consume leftover ham pot pie within 2 hours of serving to ensure food safety. Unattended food should not sit out longer than this.
Fridge: Store your leftover ham pot pie in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or enjoy warm from the oven for the best taste.
Freezer: Freeze the pot pie for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until warmed through, ensuring the filling is hot and the crust is crispy. Enjoy that comforting flavor once again!
What to Serve with Leftover Ham Pot Pie?
Transform your comforting pot pie into a full-fledged feast that delights the senses and warms the heart.
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Garlic Bread: This buttery, garlicky delight adds a crunchy element, perfect for soaking up creamy pot pie filling.
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Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of the pie.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots, Brussels sprouts, and asparagus bring an earthy crunch, enhancing the meal's overall flavor profile.
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Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, these mashed potatoes are like a cozy hug, complementing the savory filling of the pot pie.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, this warm, spiced treat provides a sweet contrast to the savory pie with its crispy topping and gooey filling.
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Cider or White Wine: A glass of crisp apple cider or a light white wine will cleanse the palate and elevate your meal experience.
Think of all these pairings as a warm invitation to gather around the table, making memories over delightful dishes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making your Leftover Ham Pot Pie, ensure to sauté your onions and garlic just until they are translucent to release their full flavor without burning.
- Avoid adding too much flour at once; sprinkle it evenly over the vegetables to avoid clumps in your sauce.
- For a creamier filling, gradually whisk in the milk rather than pouring it all at once, which helps prevent lumps.
- Always let your pot pie rest for 10 minutes after baking to ensure the filling sets properly and is easier to slice.
Leftover Ham Pot Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ham for my pot pie?
Absolutely! When selecting leftover ham, choose pieces that are moist and flavorful. Look for ham that doesn't have excessive dryness or dark spots all over, which can indicate spoilage. If you're using deli ham, ensure it's fresh and has a nice balance of flavor and moisture for the best results in your pot pie.
How should I store leftover ham pot pie?
Very! You can store your leftover ham pot pie in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures it stays fresh and maintains its delicious flavor. If you need a longer storage period, look to freezing!
Can I freeze my leftover ham pot pie?
Yes! To freeze your pot pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. This method preserves its creamy filling and flaky crust beautifully. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my pot pie filling turns out too thick?
Great question! If your filling becomes too thick, just add a splash of milk while gently stirring over low heat to reach your desired consistency. If it’s still too thick, consider adding a bit of chicken or vegetable broth. Remember, you want that creamy, dreamy filling to shine!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! If you're cooking for someone with gluten intolerance, you can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. For those who are dairy-sensitive, consider using lactose-free milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk. Just ensure that the substitutions provide enough thickness to the filling.
How can I make my pot pie more flavorful?
Absolutely! To boost the flavor of your Leftover Ham Pot Pie, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary alongside the thyme. You can also stir in a spoonful of Dijon mustard or Worcestershire sauce into the filling for an added depth. Tasty seasonings can elevate your dish remarkably!
Leftover Ham Pot Pie
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a pie dish.
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the diced carrots, potatoes, and peas. Cook for 5–7 minutes until they’re slightly tender.
- Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables and ham. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Pour in the milk gradually, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
- Place one pie crust in the greased dish. Pour the creamy filling over the crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with the second crust, trimming the edges as necessary. Cut slits for steam to escape and brush with beaten egg.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
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