Ham and Cheese Calzones Baked

Few things deliver such satisfying nostalgia as a golden ham and cheese calzone fresh from the oven The gooey cheese and savory ham stuffed into pillowy dough make this recipe a family game night favorite and an excellent way to use leftover ham or deli slices

I first discovered calzones on a trip to an old school pizzeria They became a weeknight go to for us whenever we crave something comforting and portable

Ingredients

• All purpose flour: forms the sturdy yet soft dough structure Look for fresh flour and avoid anything with a stale odor
• Warm water: activates the yeast and builds elasticity
• Active dry yeast: helps the dough rise and creates that bakery style texture
• Olive oil: gives tenderness and richness Look for extra virgin if possible
• Granulated sugar: gives just a hint of sweetness and boosts the yeast
• Salt: balances all flavors Choose fine sea salt for even seasoning
• Deli ham: brings a classic savory element Try to use thick cut or good quality ham from the deli counter
• Mozzarella cheese: provides that stretchy melty factor Seek low moisture mozzarella for less soggy filling
• Cheddar or provolone: adds a punch of flavor Go for sharp cheddar or aged provolone for depth
• Ricotta cheese: keeps the filling creamy Opt for a full fat version for richness
• Dijon or yellow mustard: adds brightness and a subtle zing to every bite
• Garlic powder: offers an underlying aromatic note
• Black pepper: gives warmth and finish to the filling
• Melted butter or olive oil: ensures your crust bakes up glossy and flavorful Real butter delivers extra flavor
• Italian seasoning or dried parsley: gives a herby finish Use a fresh dried blend for the most fragrance
• Grated Parmesan: adds a final salty cheesy touch Pick the good stuff grated fresh from a wedge if you can

Instructions

Make the Dough:

Combine warm water yeast and sugar in a mixing bowl Let this mixture sit for about five minutes until you see bubbles and foam This ensures the yeast is alive and ready to work

Mix and Knead:

Add flour salt and olive oil to your bowl Mix by hand or with a spatula until a shaggy dough comes together Use your hands to knead for six to eight minutes on a floured surface until the dough turns smooth elastic and no longer sticky

Rise:

Cover the bowl with a towel and leave in a warm spot so the dough can rise for about one hour or until it has doubled in size If you prefer using store bought dough let it relax at room temperature for at least twenty minutes before using so it rolls out without shrinking

Prepare the Filling:

Chop ham into small bite size pieces for even distribution In a large bowl combine ham mozzarella cheese cheddar or provolone ricotta cheese garlic powder black pepper and mustard This creates a creamy flavorful mixture Make sure the filling is blended but not runny to avoid leaks

Shape the Dough:

Set your oven to four hundred twenty five degrees Fahrenheit Line a baking sheet with parchment Cut the dough into four even portions for hearty calzones Roll each piece out on a lightly floured counter to an oval about seven to eight inches wide

Fill the Calzones:

On each round spoon a portion of filling onto one half Leave a border around the edge so you can seal the dough well Fold the empty side of dough over the filled side pressing the edges together tightly to hold everything in Make a decorative crimp with your fingers or press with a fork for extra security Use a sharp knife to make two tiny slits on top letting steam escape and keeping the calzones from bursting

Finish and Bake:

Transfer calzones to your prepared baking sheet Brush each with melted butter or olive oil for a glossy finish Sprinkle Italian seasoning dried parsley or grated parmesan on the top for color and flavor Bake in the center of the oven for fifteen to eighteen minutes until the tops turn deep golden brown Cool calzones for three to five minutes before biting in This keeps you from burning your tongue and lets the cheese settle slightly

Calzones keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days Simply reheat in the oven at three hundred fifty degrees until warmed through This keeps the crust crispy Avoid microwaving unless you are in a rush because it can soften the bread If making ahead wrap unbaked calzones in plastic and freeze then bake straight from frozen just add a few extra minutes to your baking time

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ham for cooked turkey or chicken for something different For vegetarians try sautéed mushrooms plus spinach Omit mustard if you want a more neutral flavor and consider swapping ricotta for cottage cheese in a pinch Provolone and gouda also work beautifully if mozzarella is not on hand

Serving Suggestions

Serve calzones with a small bowl of warm pizza sauce or marinara for dipping They also pair well with a crisp green salad and a sprinkle of extra parmesan for a bistro inspired meal Leftovers are perfect tucked into lunchboxes

Cultural and Seasonal Notes

Calzones originated in southern Italy as a clever way to carry pizza style flavors on the go Over the years they became an American pizzeria classic perfect for year round gatherings For fall try adding some roasted butternut squash chunks and using smoked gouda for warmth In spring add fresh chopped herbs to the filling

Recipe Notes

Resting the dough ensures a tender crust Mustard is optional but highly recommended for its zip Vent the calzone tops or they may burst

Success Stories

I have shared this recipe at potlucks and always get asked for the details Once my neighbor froze a dozen mini calzones ahead of her son's birthday party and said not a crumb was left They are as popular with kids as they are with hungry adults

Freezer Meal Conversion

To freeze calzones assemble but do not bake Arrange on a tray until solid then transfer to a freezer bag Later bake straight from frozen at four hundred degrees adding about five minutes You always have a homemade meal ready for busy days

Ham and cheese calzones freeze beautifully for a quick comfort meal on busy nights Enjoy with a simple salad and give any leftovers an encore in lunchboxes tomorrow

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of ham works best?

Deli-style ham, either diced or chopped thin, provides the ideal texture and savory flavor for the filling.

→ Do I need to make homemade dough?

Homemade dough offers great flavor, but you can use store-bought pizza dough for convenience with delicious results.

→ Which cheeses can be substituted?

Try provolone for a smoky note, or swap cheddar with more mozzarella. Ricotta adds creaminess and shouldn't be skipped.

→ How can I prevent the calzones from leaking?

Seal edges tightly and crimp with a fork. Cutting slits on top helps steam escape and avoids bursting.

→ How should I serve calzones?

Serve warm, as a main meal or snack. A side of marinara or salad complements the savory flavors well.