There’s something incredibly comforting about homemade calzones, especially when they’re oozing with melty cheese and savory ham. Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, the kind that calls for cozy meals, and I’m wracking my brain for something that’s both satisfying and fun to make. That’s when I remembered my go-to Ham and Cheese Calzones. They’re not just packed with flavor but are also a fantastic way to transform simple ingredients into an impressive dish.
As I rolled out the pizza dough, the anticipation grew — the scent of garlic and herbs mingled with the richness of the cheeses promised a delightful experience. Each calzone is like a little pocket of joy, perfect for family dinners or just indulging after a long day. Whether you’re trying to escape the fast-food rut or simply craving a home-cooked meal that’s easy to whip up, these calzones are the answer. Let’s dive into this quick recipe that will elevate your meal times and put a smile on everyone’s face!
Why You'll Love This Ham and Cheese Calzones
- These Ham and Cheese Calzones are incredibly easy to make, making them a perfect choice for a weeknight meal.
- Packed with gooey cheese and savory ham, they deliver a flavor explosion that everyone will love.
- Their versatility allows you to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients, making each batch uniquely yours.
- With a total cooking time of just 40 minutes, these calzones are a time-saving delight that won't keep you in the kitchen for long.
- They also look amazing when baked to golden perfection, making them a visually appealing dish for any occasion.
Ham and Cheese Calzones Ingredients
• Discover the delights of your very own homemade calzones!
For the Dough
- 1 batch pizza dough – ready-made dough can save time if you're in a pinch, but homemade is always a treat!
For the Filling
- 1 cup diced cooked ham – use leftover ham for a delicious and waste-reducing option.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – this classic cheese provides that gooey, stretchy goodness in every bite.
- ½ cup ricotta cheese – adds creaminess to the filling, making every calzone irresistibly rich.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – brings a nutty flavor that compliments the other cheeses beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – a sprinkle of this herb boosts the calzones' flavor profile with a taste of Italy.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – enhances the savory notes and takes the flavor to another level.
For Assembling
- 1 beaten egg – this acts as your magical glue to seal the edges and gives a lovely golden color when baked.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – brushing the tops ensures a crispy, golden crust.
These Ham and Cheese Calzones ingredients come together to create a dish that's perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Happy cooking!
How to Make Ham and Cheese Calzones
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Preheat your oven to 425°F. This creates the ideal baking environment for golden, crispy calzones.
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Mix the filling in a bowl by combining diced cooked ham, shredded mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheeses. Sprinkle in dried oregano and garlic powder, then stir until everything is well-blended and cohesive.
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Divide the pizza dough into four equal portions. Roll each piece into a circle approximately 8 inches in diameter. This will be the canvas for your delicious filling!
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Spoon a quarter of the flavorful filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving about a ½-inch border around the edge. Brush the edges with the beaten egg — this will help seal the calzones.
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Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to crimp and seal the edges tightly, ensuring none of the cheesy goodness escapes during baking.
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Transfer the assembled calzones to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with olive oil and cut a small slit in each one. This allows steam to escape and keeps your calzones perfectly puffed.
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Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Let them cool for about 5 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to settle.
Optional: Serve with marinara sauce for dipping to elevate the flavors!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Ham and Cheese Calzones Variations
Feel free to play with the ingredients and enjoy making this recipe your own!
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Vegetarian: Swap ham for sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a delicious meat-free option. A medley of veggies maintains great flavor and texture!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for an exciting burst of heat. This will take your calzones to the next level!
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Herbed Delight: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the flavors even more. Simply chop them finely and mix them in for a refreshing twist.
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Cheesy Explosion: Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar or pepper jack for a rich flavor. Mixing a variety can make your calzones pop with taste!
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BBQ Chicken: Replace the ham with shredded cooked chicken mixed with your favorite BBQ sauce for a tangy twist. These BBQ calzones are a flavorful departure!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pizza dough to keep this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions while enjoying the same comforting essence.
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Breakfast Calzones: Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and cooked bacon or sausage for a delightful breakfast treat any time of day. Perfect for a brunch option!
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Sweet Surprise: For a dessert version, fill with sweetened ricotta and chocolate chips, drizzle with honey, and bake for a unique and delectable treat.
Make Ahead Options
These Ham and Cheese Calzones are perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights much easier! You can prepare the calzones up to 24 hours in advance. To do so, assemble the calzones as instructed and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This ensures they stay fresh without compromising flavor. When you're ready to serve, simply preheat your oven, brush with olive oil, and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they come straight from the fridge. Enjoy delicious, homemade calzones with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Ham and Cheese Calzones
Room Temperature: Calzones can be kept out for up to 2 hours. Make sure to cover them with a clean kitchen towel to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Store leftover calzones in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to regain the crispy texture, about 10-15 minutes at 350°F.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual calzones tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For best results, reheat frozen calzones directly from the freezer in the oven at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes until heated through and crispy.
What to Serve with Ham and Cheese Calzones?
Picture this: a warm, inviting table set for family and friends, each dish complementing the irresistible calzones crafted from your kitchen.
- Marinara Sauce: A classic pairing, its tangy richness balances the gooey cheese and savory ham beautifully. Perfect for dipping!
- Garlic Bread: Golden and crispy, this buttery delight adds an aromatic crunch that perfectly contrasts the soft calzones.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing bite, cutting through the richness of the calzones.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful veggies caramelized to perfection introduce earthy flavors and a lovely texture that enhances every bite.
- Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy side brings brightness and a satisfying crunch, balancing the comforting heaviness of the calzones.
- Sparkling Apple Cider: A bubbly, fruity drink that offers a refreshing zest, making it a wonderful choice for a cozy dinner.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note with warm cookies, providing a comforting finish after the savory calzones.
- Fruit Salad: Light and refreshing, a medley of seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate between bites, offering a delightful contrast.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best Ham and Cheese Calzones, make sure to roll your dough to an even thickness to ensure uniform baking.
- Avoid overfilling your calzones, as too much filling can cause them to burst in the oven.
- When sealing the edges, pressing firmly and using the fork to crimp will help keep the delicious filling inside.
- Baking at the right temperature of 425°F ensures a crispy crust while keeping the insides perfectly gooey and warm.
Ham and Cheese Calzones Recipe FAQs
What type of ham is best for the filling?
Absolutely! Diced cooked ham is recommended for the filling. You can use any cooked ham you like, including leftover holiday ham or even deli ham for convenience. Just ensure it’s flavorful since it's the star ingredient alongside the cheeses.
How long can I store leftover calzones in the fridge?
Very! Your leftover Ham and Cheese Calzones can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, just pop them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes at 350°F to revive their crispy charm.
Can I freeze Ham and Cheese Calzones?
Yes, of course! To freeze, wrap each individual calzone tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, reheat straight from the freezer by baking at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes until heated through and crispy.
What should I do if my calzones are bursting during baking?
Sometimes the dough just can't hold all that delicious goodness! To prevent bursting, make sure you’re not overfilling each calzone and ensure the edges are sealed firmly with the fork crimping method. Also, creating steam vents on the top allows steam to escape, which helps reduce pressure inside.
Are there any allergies I should consider with this recipe?
Great question! If you're serving these Ham and Cheese Calzones to guests, be mindful of common allergens. The recipe includes cheese (dairy) and gluten from the pizza dough. You could use gluten-free pizza dough for those with gluten sensitivities, and there are lactose-free cheese alternatives available for those who are lactose intolerant.
Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
The more the merrier! Feel free to customize your calzones to your liking. You can add cooked vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers along with the ham and cheeses. Just be sure to chop them finely so they fit well inside the calzone. Enjoy experimenting!
Ham and Cheese Calzones
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- Mix the filling in a bowl by combining diced cooked ham, shredded mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheeses. Sprinkle in dried oregano and garlic powder, then stir until everything is well-blended.
- Divide the pizza dough into four equal portions. Roll each piece into a circle approximately 8 inches in diameter.
- Spoon a quarter of the filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving about a ½-inch border around the edge. Brush the edges with the beaten egg.
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to crimp and seal the edges tightly.
- Transfer the assembled calzones to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with olive oil and cut a small slit in each one.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Let them cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
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