Greek Ham and Cheese Pie (Zambonopita) – Easy One-Bowl Recipe

If you’re looking for a savory, protein-packed dish that comes together in one bowl, this Greek Ham and Cheese Pie is about to become your new favorite. Also known as Zambonopita, this traditional Greek bake is incredibly simple to prepare yet delivers layers of flavor from salty ham, creamy feta, and melty mozzarella. The batter comes together in minutes with no mixer or special equipment needed. Whether you serve it for a weekend brunch, pack it for a weekday lunch, or grab a slice as an afternoon snack, this pie is as versatile as it is delicious. For more hearty meal prep inspiration, check out these Top 25 Meal Prep Recipes.

The word Zambonopita might be a mouthful, but this pie is undeniably a delicious one. Packed with protein from eggs, Greek yogurt, and three types of meat and cheese, it’s a satisfying meal any time of day. If you enjoy easy breakfast bakes, you’ll also love this Chicken Breakfast Sausage or these Healthy Breakfast Muffins.

Ingredients for Greek Ham and Cheese Pie

Many of these ingredients are likely already in your kitchen. You’ll need:

• Butter, eggs, and milk
• Deli ham (or prosciutto)
• Greek yogurt or cottage cheese
• Feta cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Flour, baking powder, and salt
• Black pepper and nutmeg

Greek yogurt is the more traditional choice, but if you want to add even more protein to the mix, cottage cheese is an excellent substitute. Both are delicious and yield a wonderfully moist, tender crumb.

How to Make Greek Ham and Cheese Pie

Good news: you only need one bowl to make this! Here’s how:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8×11 or 9×13 baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: eggs, Greek yogurt (or cottage cheese), and milk until smooth.
3. Add the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until just combined — do not overmix.
4. Fold in the crumbled feta, shredded mozzarella, and chopped ham or prosciutto until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Drizzle the remaining melted butter over the top.
6. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the pie is puffed, golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

An 8×11 pan will yield thicker, more substantial slices, while a 9×13 pan produces a thinner, crispier pie. Either works beautifully. Be sure to brush the baking dish with melted butter before adding the batter, then drizzle the remaining butter on top for an extra-golden crust. For another savory one-pan meal, try this Creamy Sausage Pasta with Saffron.

Tips for the Perfect Greek Ham and Cheese Pie

• Don’t overmix: Stir the batter just until the flour disappears. Overmixing can make the pie dense instead of light and fluffy.
• Use quality ham: Thick-cut deli ham or prosciutto adds the best flavor. Avoid pre-packaged, water-added ham for superior results.
• Cool on a wire rack: Once baked, transfer slices to a wire rack to cool. This prevents the bottom from becoming soggy as it sits.
• Make it ahead: This pie reheats beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Customize your cheese: Try adding grated Parmesan or Gruyère for a different flavor profile. For a similar cheesy bake, you’ll love these Mini Ham and Gruyère Quiches.

This pie puffs up beautifully in the oven, creating a golden, crispy top with a tender, custard-like interior. If you’re not planning to eat it immediately, be sure to store slices on a wire rack so they don’t absorb excess moisture from the pan. For another protein-packed breakfast idea, check out this Scrambled Eggs with Cottage Cheese or this Sweet Potato Turkey Sausage Breakfast Sheet Pan.

FAQs

Can I make Greek Ham and Cheese Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! This pie is perfect for meal prep. Bake it as directed, let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 30–45 seconds or in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes.

Can I freeze Zambonopita?

Yes. Wrap cooled slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I serve with Greek Ham and Cheese Pie?

This pie is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, fresh fruit, or a bowl of Lemon Chickpea Soup. For brunch, serve alongside Pumpkin Pancakes or Strawberry Smoothie with Greek Yogurt.

For more inspiration on savory bakes and Mediterranean flavors, explore the recipe collections at Food Network.