Transform your mealtime with an exciting twist on the classic ham and cheese combo! This Easy Ham and Cheese Stromboli recipe is not only simple to prepare but also a fantastic way to utilize leftover ham, making it an ideal choice for any busy cook.

The Ultimate Easy Ham and Cheese Stromboli Recipe: A Crowd-Pleasing Dinner Solution

Are you searching for a delicious, straightforward recipe that appeals to everyone at the dinner table? Look no further than this incredible Ham and Cheese Stromboli! It takes the beloved flavors of ham and cheese and wraps them in a golden, crispy pizza dough crust, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and fun. Whether you have an abundance of holiday ham leftover from a festive feast or simply want a quick and tasty weeknight dinner using deli ham, this recipe is incredibly adaptable and promises a delightful experience with minimal effort.

Why This Ham and Cheese Stromboli Will Become a Family Favorite

This Ham and Cheese Stromboli isn’t just another recipe; it’s a culinary hero for several reasons. Its simplicity makes it approachable for even novice cooks, while its robust flavors ensure a gourmet experience. Here’s why it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe collection:

• Effortlessly Easy: With readily available ingredients like store-bought pizza dough, this recipe significantly cuts down on prep time. It’s perfect for those evenings when you need a hearty meal without the fuss.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Have a generous amount of holiday ham? This Stromboli is the ultimate solution. It breathes new life into cooked ham, preventing food waste and creating a completely new culinary delight.
• Customizable to Your Taste: While ham and cheddar are a classic combination, this recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity. Experiment with different cheeses, seasonings, or even add vegetables to suit your family’s preferences.
• Budget-Friendly: Utilizing leftover ham and simple pantry staples, this Stromboli is an economical choice that provides a substantial meal for the whole family.
• Make-Ahead Potential: This dish is fantastic for meal prepping. Assemble it ahead of time, bake it when ready, or even freeze it for a future quick meal.
• Kid-Friendly: The familiar flavors of ham and cheese, combined with the fun, roll-up presentation, make this Stromboli a hit with children.
• Versatile Serving: Ideal for lunch, dinner, a hearty snack, or even party appetizers when sliced smaller.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Your Savory Stromboli

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this mouthwatering Stromboli. The beauty of this recipe lies in its minimal ingredient list, proving that simple can truly be spectacular.

Core Stromboli Ingredients:

• Store-bought pizza dough: Opt for a good quality dough from your local grocery store or bakery. It’s a fantastic time-saver.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, umami depth to the seasoning mix.
• Garlic powder: A foundational flavor that complements both ham and cheese beautifully.
• Dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary that elevates the overall aroma and taste.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Its bold flavor stands up well to the ham and melts wonderfully.
• Leftover ham or sliced deli ham: The star of our show! Any thinly sliced ham will work, but a sweet ham (like honey or maple) can add an extra layer of flavor.
• Egg: Used for an egg wash to create a beautiful, golden-brown crust.
• A splash of water: Mixed with the egg for the perfect consistency of the egg wash.
• Honey mustard for dipping (optional): A classic pairing that offers a sweet and tangy counterpoint to the savory Stromboli.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Ham and Cheese Stromboli

Creating this delicious Stromboli is a straightforward process. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a perfect, golden-brown roll every time.

Preparation is Key:

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures the dough bakes thoroughly and achieves a beautiful golden crust. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Set it aside.
2. Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured, clean work surface, unroll your pizza dough. Using a rolling pin, shape it into a rough 8×12 inch (approximately 20×30 cm) rectangle. Aim for an even thickness to ensure uniform baking.

3. Transfer the dough: Carefully transfer the rolled-out pizza dough onto your prepared baking sheet. This makes it easier to add fillings and roll later.

Layering the Flavors:

4. Prepare the seasoning mix: In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried Italian seasoning. This aromatic blend will infuse the Stromboli with savory notes.

5. Season the dough: Sprinkle half of the prepared seasoning mixture evenly over the entire surface of the pizza dough. This ensures flavor in every bite.

6. Add the cheese: Distribute half of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the dough, leaving a half-inch border around the edges. Crucially, leave a wider, 1.5-inch border on one of the long sides. This wider edge will be the final flap that seals your Stromboli.

7. Layer the ham: Evenly lay the thinly sliced ham over the cheese layer. Then, top the ham with the remaining shredded cheese. This creates a delightful, gooey center.

Rolling and Sealing:

8. Prepare the egg wash: In a small bowl, whisk the large egg with a splash of water until well combined. This is your egg wash.

9. Brush the edges: Use a pastry brush to apply the egg wash to the exposed edges of the pizza dough, especially the wider 1.5-inch border you left. This acts as a delicious glue to seal your Stromboli.

10. Roll it up: Starting from the long end *opposite* the wider egg-washed border, tightly roll the dough jelly-roll style into a log. The tighter you roll, the more cohesive your Stromboli will be. Finish the roll with the wider egg-washed edge on the outside. Pinch the seam firmly together to secure the roll. Also, pinch the top and bottom edges closed and tuck them neatly under the log to fully seal the filling.

Baking for Perfection:

11. Final egg wash and seasoning: Brush the entire top surface of the Stromboli log with the remaining egg wash. This will give it that desirable golden sheen.

12. Add final seasoning: Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan-garlic-Italian seasoning mixture over the top of the egg-washed Stromboli. This adds another layer of flavor and a visually appealing finish.

13. Vent the dough: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut several slits about 2 inches apart across the top of the Stromboli. These vents allow steam to escape during baking, preventing the dough from bursting and ensuring a crispier crust.

14. Bake until golden: Bake for 20-25 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the Stromboli is beautifully golden brown all over. The exact time may vary depending on your oven.

Rest, Slice, and Serve:

15. Important resting step: Once baked, remove the Stromboli from the oven and let it rest on the baking sheet for a full 10 minutes before slicing. This crucial step allows the internal steam to redistribute, preventing a soggy interior and ensuring the cheese sets properly, making for cleaner slices. Do not skip this!

16. Slice and enjoy: After resting, cut the Stromboli into 2-inch thick slices. Serve immediately with honey mustard for dipping, or your favorite sauce.

Expert Tips for a Perfect Stromboli Every Time

• Oven Temperature Accuracy: Oven temperatures can vary significantly. Even after your oven beeps that it’s preheated, it’s often not at the exact temperature. To ensure even baking, allow your oven to preheat for at least 10-15 minutes *after* it signals readiness. An oven thermometer can be a great tool for accuracy.
• Middle Rack is Best: Always bake your Stromboli on the middle oven rack. This placement provides the most even heat distribution, ensuring both the top and bottom crusts cook perfectly without burning.
• Don’t Skip the Rest: As mentioned in the instructions, resting the Stromboli for 10 minutes after baking is vital. During this time, the dough continues to cook gently on the warm pan, and the cheese will set. Cutting too soon can result in a gooey, hard-to-handle mess and an undercooked interior.
• Even Dough Thickness: When rolling out your pizza dough, strive for an even thickness throughout. If some areas are thicker than others, they may not bake through completely, leading to uneven texture.
• Tight Rolling Matters: Rolling the Stromboli tightly helps keep the filling secure and ensures a beautiful spiral pattern when sliced. Loose rolling can lead to gaps or the filling falling out.
• Customize Your Cheese: While sharp cheddar is fantastic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella (for ultimate stretchiness), pepper jack (for a kick), smoked gouda (for a smoky depth), Monterey Jack, or Gruyere. For the best melt, buy a block of cheese and shred it yourself; pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect melting quality.
• Enhance Your Ham: If using deli ham, consider varieties like honey ham or maple ham for a touch of sweetness that beautifully contrasts the savory cheese and seasonings.

Customization and Serving Suggestions

This Ham and Cheese Stromboli is wonderfully versatile. Here are some ideas to make it uniquely yours or to create a complete meal:

Stromboli Variations:

• Add Vegetables: Sautéed mushrooms, finely diced bell peppers, spinach, or caramelized onions can add extra flavor and nutrition. Make sure vegetables are cooked and drained to prevent excess moisture.
• Spice It Up: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes in your seasoning mix or use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
• Different Meats: While ham is classic, try cooked crumbled sausage, shredded chicken, or pepperoni for different flavor profiles.
• Herb Boost: Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives can be added to the cheese and ham layer for a burst of fresh flavor.

Dipping Sauce Options:

Beyond the delightful honey mustard, consider these dipping sauces to complement your Stromboli:

• Classic Pizza Sauce: A natural choice that pairs perfectly with the pizza dough base.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy and tangy, ranch is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Spicy Mustard: For those who enjoy a bit of heat with their savory meal.
• Garlic Aioli: A rich, garlicky mayonnaise-based sauce for an elevated experience.

What to Serve With Stromboli:

To make this a complete and balanced meal, consider pairing your Ham and Cheese Stromboli with:

• A Fresh Green Salad: A simple salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
• Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup makes for a comforting and classic combination.
• Coleslaw: The creamy tang of coleslaw can be a delightful side.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds fiber and nutrients.

Storage and Reheating Guide

This Ham and Cheese Stromboli is excellent freshly baked, but it also holds up well for leftovers. Knowing how to store and reheat it properly will ensure you enjoy its deliciousness days later.

Storing Leftovers:

• Refrigerator: Store any leftover Stromboli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
• Freezer: For longer storage, Stromboli freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the whole log tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating for Best Results:

• Oven (Recommended): For best results, especially from frozen, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the crust is crisp again. From the refrigerator, this may take 10-15 minutes. From frozen, it could take 20-30 minutes; you might want to cover it loosely with foil initially to prevent the crust from browning too much before the inside is heated.
• Air Fryer: An air fryer is excellent for achieving a crispy crust quickly. Place slices in a single layer and air fry at 325-350°F (160-175°C) for 5-10 minutes, checking periodically.
• Microwave: While convenient, the microwave can sometimes make the dough soggy. Use it only in a pinch for quick reheating. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed, but be aware the crust won’t be as crisp.

Craving More Delicious Recipes?

If you loved this Ham and Cheese Stromboli, you might enjoy these other savory and easy-to-make dishes:

• Easy Pizza Stromboli
• Warm Honey Ham Biscuits
• Baked Ham and Egg Cups (+Video)
• Ham and Cheese Sliders
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Stromboli

Easy Ham and Cheese Stromboli

Ham and cheese gets a fun twist with this Ham and Cheese Stromboli! An easy recipe that only requires a handful of ingredients and is perfect for leftover ham!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Author: Brandie Skibinski

Ingredients

• 1 pound store-bought pizza dough
• 1 Tablespoon grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 8 ounces thinly sliced leftover ham or sliced deli ham
• 1 large egg
• Splash of water
• Honey mustard for dipping, optional

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and set aside.
2. Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured, clean work surface into a rough 8×12 inch rectangle. Place the dough carefully on the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Sprinkle half of this mixture all over the dough.
4. Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border around most edges. Ensure one long side of the dough has a larger, 1½-inch border of just dough.
5. Lay the ham evenly over the cheese. Top the ham with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
6. In a small bowl, beat the egg with a splash of water to create an egg wash. Brush the egg wash over the exposed dough edges, particularly the wider border.
7. Roll the dough jelly-roll style, starting from the long end opposite the wide egg-washed border. Roll tightly into a log. Finish on the side with the egg wash, and pinch the seam together firmly to secure the roll. Pinch the top and bottom edges together and tuck them under the roll to seal the ends.
8. Brush the entire top of the rolled Stromboli with the remaining egg wash. Sprinkle on the remaining seasoning mix. Cut slits approximately 2 inches apart into the dough on top to allow steam to escape while baking.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the Stromboli is beautifully golden brown.
10. Let the Stromboli rest for 10 minutes on the baking sheet before cutting. This crucial resting period allows the filling to set and prevents sogginess. Do not skip this step!
11. Cut the Stromboli into 2-inch slices and serve warm with honey mustard for dipping, if desired.

Notes

• Oven temperatures can vary significantly. Even if your oven indicates it’s preheated, allow it to remain at temperature for at least 10 minutes before placing the Stromboli inside. An oven thermometer can confirm actual temperature.
• For optimal baking, position your Stromboli on the middle oven rack. The resting period after baking is essential; the Stromboli continues to cook on the warm pan, ensuring the dough is fully baked and the cheese is set. Unevenly rolled dough can also lead to uneven baking.

Nutrition Information (Estimate)

• Calories: 411 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 19g
• Sodium: 1207mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 5g

Nutritional Disclaimer

Please note that any nutritional information provided is an estimate. It is not provided by a registered dietician or nutritionist. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through your preferred online nutritional calculator. Values can vary based on specific brands and ingredient choices.