Savory Ham Cheese Calzones: Delicious Baked Recipe

Indulge in the comforting goodness of homemade Ham and Cheese Calzones Baked – a timeless classic that never fails to delight taste buds. The combination of gooey melted cheeses, savory ham, and fluffy dough creates a symphony of flavors that feels like a warm hug from the oven. This recipe is a surefire hit for family game nights or whenever you’re craving a deliciously satisfying meal.

Discovering the magic of calzones at a cozy pizzeria inspired me to recreate this Italian-American favorite in my own kitchen. The versatility of these handheld delights makes them a perfect canvas for creativity – from swapping out ingredients to suit your preferences to experimenting with seasonal flavors. Whether you’re a fan of traditional ham and cheese or eager to explore new variations, these baked calzones are a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.

With the option to freeze them for later enjoyment, these Ham and Cheese Calzones are not only a convenient meal solution for busy days but also a delightful treat that brings joy to lunchboxes and gatherings alike. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor every bite of these golden-baked calzones filled with love and flavor.

Quick Benefits

• Perfect for using up leftover ham or deli slices
• Can be made ahead and frozen for quick, homemade meals
• Versatile – swap ingredients for different flavor profiles
• Family-friendly and great for gatherings or parties

Why You’ll Love This Savory Ham Cheese Calzones: Delicious Baked Recipe Recipe

• This ham and cheese calzone recipe is a nostalgic favorite, delivering the perfect combination of gooey cheese and savory ham stuffed into pillowy dough.
• It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized with different fillings like turkey, chicken, mushrooms, or spinach to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
• The calzones can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer, making them a convenient option for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
• The recipe provides tips for achieving a tender crust and preventing the calzones from bursting, ensuring a delicious and visually appealing result.
• Whether served as a main meal, snack, or packed in lunchboxes, these ham and cheese calzones are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Freezing the calzones allows for easy reheating, making them a perfect option for a quick and satisfying comfort meal anytime.

Ingredients for Savory Ham Cheese Calzones: Delicious Baked Recipe

Dough

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt

Filling

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese or provolone cheese
• 2 cups deli-style ham, diced
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard or yellow mustard

Crust Finishing

• 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried parsley

Pro Tips for Savory Ham Cheese Calzones: Delicious Baked Recipe

For perfect calzones, ensure your dough is well rested for a tender crust. Using deli-style ham, either diced or thinly chopped, provides the ideal texture and savory flavor for the filling. While homemade dough adds great flavor, store-bought pizza dough is a convenient and tasty alternative.

Experiment with cheese options for varied flavor profiles; try provolone for a smoky note or more mozzarella in place of cheddar. Don’t skip the ricotta for its creaminess. Seal the edges tightly and crimp with a fork to prevent bursting, and remember to cut slits on top to allow steam to escape.

Serve your ham and cheese calzones warm as a main meal or snack. Pair them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or a crisp salad to complement the savory flavors. Enjoy the leftovers tucked into lunchboxes for a delicious encore.

How to Make Savory Ham Cheese Calzones: Delicious Baked Recipe

Step 1: Activate Yeast

In a large bowl, mix warm water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Stir gently and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Prepare Dough

Combine all-purpose flour, salt, and olive oil with the activated yeast mixture to form a dough. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: Allow Dough to Rise

Place a clean towel over the dough and allow it to rise for approximately 1 hour, or until it has doubled in volume.

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Step 4: Rest Store-Bought Dough (if using)

Let store-bought pizza dough rest at room temperature for 20 minutes prior to rolling it out.

Step 5: Prepare Filling

Cut ham into small dice. Combine diced ham with shredded mozzarella, cheddar or provolone, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, black pepper, and mustard in a bowl. Gently stir mixture until evenly combined without creating excess moisture.

Step 6: Shape Dough

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Divide the dough into 4 equal parts for large calzones or 6 parts for smaller ones. Roll each portion on a lightly floured surface into a 7 to 8-inch circle or oval.

Step 7: Fill Calzones

Place the prepared filling on one half of each dough circle, leaving a border around the edge.

Step 8: Fold and Seal

Fold dough over filling to form a half-moon shape. Seal the edges by pressing firmly with your hand or a fork. Make two slits on top for steam to escape.

Step 9: Finish and Bake

Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with melted butter or olive oil, sprinkle with Italian seasoning or grated Parmesan, and bake for 15 to 18 minutes until golden brown.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Allow the calzones to cool for 3 to 5 minutes before serving to avoid burning yourself on the hot filling.

Storage Tips

To store the finished ham and cheese calzones, place any leftovers in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate the calzones for up to three days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through to maintain a crispy crust. Avoid microwaving to prevent the bread from becoming soft. For longer storage, freeze unbaked calzones by wrapping them in plastic and then freezing. When ready to enjoy, bake the frozen calzones directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

For flavor variations, consider swapping ham for cooked turkey or chicken, or try sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cheeses to your preference, and omit mustard or swap ricotta for cottage cheese for different tastes. Serve the calzones with warm pizza sauce or marinara for dipping, and pair them with a salad for a full meal. Leftover calzones are perfect for packing in lunchboxes for a portable and satisfying meal. Whether enjoyed fresh or stored for later, these ham and cheese calzones are a versatile and delicious dish suitable for any occasion.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian twist, swap the ham with cooked turkey or chicken, or try sautéed mushrooms and spinach. Omit the mustard for a more neutral flavor profile, and consider using cottage cheese instead of ricotta in a pinch. Provolone or gouda can be substituted for mozzarella for a different cheesy taste.

While homemade dough provides great flavor, using store-bought pizza dough can save time without compromising taste. Provolone cheese can add a smoky note, and you can adjust the cheese blend by using more mozzarella or swapping cheddar. Ricotta cheese adds creaminess to the filling and is a key ingredient to include.

Ensure the calzones are sealed tightly to prevent filling leakage during baking. Use a fork to crimp the edges and cut slits on the top to allow steam to escape, preventing bursting. Serve the calzones warm as a main meal or snack, pairing them with marinara sauce or a salad to complement the savory flavors.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and interactive serving suggestion, set up a DIY calzone bar for a family game night or casual gathering. Prepare the ham and cheese filling along with a variety of other toppings like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and different types of cheese. Let everyone assemble their own calzones before baking for a personalized touch.

To elevate your ham and cheese calzones, try serving them with a side of honey mustard dipping sauce. The sweet and tangy flavors of the sauce complement the savory ham and gooey cheese filling perfectly. This unexpected twist will take your calzones to the next level and impress your guests with a delightful flavor combination.

FAQs for Savory Ham Cheese Calzones: Delicious Baked Recipe

Can I use store-bought pizza dough instead of making the homemade dough?

Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough can be a convenient alternative without compromising on taste. Your calzones will still turn out delicious.

Can I freeze the calzones before baking them?

Yes, you can assemble the calzones and freeze them on a tray until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, you can place them in the oven straight from frozen, adjusting the baking time accordingly.

What other ingredients can I use in the calzones besides ham and cheese?

You can customize your calzones by using ingredients like cooked turkey, chicken, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or different types of cheeses like provolone, gouda, or cottage cheese. Feel free to get creative with the fillings!

How should I store and reheat leftover calzones?

Leftover calzones can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, it’s best to use the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit to keep the crust crispy. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the bread soggy.

Conclusion

Ham and Cheese Calzones Baked are truly a versatile and comforting dish that never fails to impress. Whether you’re making them for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, these calzones are sure to be a hit. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the fillings and customize them to your liking. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability, so feel free to experiment and make it your own.

From the flaky crust to the gooey cheese and savory ham, every bite of these Ham and Cheese Calzones Baked is a delicious experience. Remember to savor the aroma as they bake in the oven and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a homemade meal that is both comforting and flavorful. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a delightful meal that will have everyone coming back for more. Happy baking!

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Savory Ham Cheese Calzones: Delicious Baked Recipe

Savor the nostalgia of golden Ham and Cheese Calzones baked to perfection, a comforting family-favorite with gooey cheese and savory ham.

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Prep Time25 min

Cook Time18 min

Total Time43 min

CuisineItalian-American

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings (4 large calzones)

Ingredients

Dough

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt

Filling

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese or provolone cheese
• 2 cups deli-style ham, diced
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard or yellow mustard

Crust Finishing

• 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried parsley

Instructions

1. Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, mix warm water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Stir gently and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Prepare Dough: Combine all-purpose flour, salt, and olive oil with the activated yeast mixture to form a dough. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Allow Dough to Rise: Place a clean towel over the dough and allow it to rise for approximately 1 hour, or until it has doubled in volume.
4. Rest Store-Bought Dough (if using): Let store-bought pizza dough rest at room temperature for 20 minutes prior to rolling it out.
5. Prepare Filling: Cut ham into small dice. Combine diced ham with shredded mozzarella, cheddar or provolone, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, black pepper, and mustard in a bowl. Gently stir mixture until evenly combined without creating excess moisture.
6. Shape Dough: 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Divide the dough into 4 equal parts for large calzones or 6 parts for smaller ones. Roll each portion on a lightly floured surface into a 7 to 8-inch circle or oval.
7. Fill Calzones: Place the prepared filling on one half of each dough circle, leaving a border around the edge.
8. Fold and Seal: Fold dough over filling to form a half-moon shape. Seal the edges by pressing firmly with your hand or a fork. Make two slits on top for steam to escape.
9. Finish and Bake: Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with melted butter or olive oil, sprinkle with Italian seasoning or grated Parmesan, and bake for 15 to 18 minutes until golden brown.
10. Cool and Serve: Allow the calzones to cool for 3 to 5 minutes before serving to avoid burning yourself on the hot filling.