Cheesy crust. Cheesy filling. An all-around cheesy creation with all of the satisfaction but almost none of the carbs. For smiles at your table, just say “cheese!”
Ingredients
Cheese pie
- 4½ cups (18 oz.) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 8 eggs, beaten
- 1½ cups heavy whipping cream
- salt and pepper
For serving
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ½ tbsp red wine vinegar
- salt and pepper
- 1 lb smoked deli ham
- 1 tbsp butter
- 7 oz. (5½ cups) lettuce
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease one ramekin per serving or any other serving-sized baking dish (approximately 5-6” (12 cm) in diameter).
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In a large bowl, place half of the cheese. Whisk together the eggs and cream, and add to the bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
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Place the remaining cheese into rounded piles (½ cup (1.2 dl) per serving,) on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Move cheese piles into the oven for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese has melted completely. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly, but not completely.
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Using a spatula, place the still pliable cheese puddles over the ramekins. Guide the cheese to conform to the shape of each dish, to form a crust. Let cheese crusts harden completely.
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Pour the egg mixture into the crusts. Bake the pies for about 30-35 minutes, or until they are set, and have turned a nice golden color.
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Mix the olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper to make a simple vinaigrette. Prepare the salad.
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Cut the ham into thin strips, and fry in butter over medium-high heat, until crispy tender. Serve with pies, salad, and vinaigrette.
Tip
These mini-pies are delicious at room temperature or even cold. They are perfect for a picnic or as a packed lunch. Or, serve as a filling first course for any meal.
