Ham and Cheese Calzone Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide

Originally posted on May 5, 2022 @ 11:01 am

If you’re craving a delightful Italian treat that’s both comforting and easy to prepare, this ham and cheese calzone recipe is just what you need. Imagine a golden, crispy crust encasing a savory blend of melted cheeses and tender ham slices, creating a perfect harmony of flavors in every bite.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a casual gathering, calzones are versatile, portable, and utterly delicious.

Making calzones at home allows you to customize fillings to your liking, but this classic ham and cheese version is a timeless favorite that never disappoints. Plus, the process is fun and straightforward, making it a great cooking project for all skill levels.

Ready to roll up some dough and fill it with cheesy goodness? Let’s dive into this recipe that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This ham and cheese calzone recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. With minimal ingredients, you create a hearty meal that satisfies both kids and adults alike.

The dough is soft yet crispy when baked, while the filling oozes with melty cheese and savory ham. It’s a complete meal in one package, making it ideal for lunchboxes, picnics, or dinner on the go.

Not only is it delicious, but calzones are also incredibly versatile — you can sneak in veggies, swap out cheeses, or add your favorite herbs for a personalized twist. Plus, prepping these ahead of time and freezing them means you’ll always have a quick meal ready to bake.

If you love homemade pizza, this calzone recipe offers a fun alternative with less mess and tons of flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for greasing
• 1 cup cooked ham, thinly sliced and chopped
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg, beaten, for egg wash

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or dough hook mixer
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet or pizza stone
• Parchment paper
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter
• Pastry brush

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
2. Mix dry ingredients: Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Drizzle in the olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon or use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook until the dough begins to come together.
3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, knead with your mixer for about 5 minutes. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and allow it to rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat the oven: About 20 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat as well.
5. Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped ham, mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the cheeses and ham.
6. Roll out the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and divide it into two equal portions. On a floured surface, roll each portion into a 10-inch circle.
7. Assemble the calzones: Spoon half of the filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a 1-inch border around the edge. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press and crimp the edges firmly to seal.
8. Apply egg wash: Place the calzones on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops lightly with the beaten egg to achieve a glossy, golden finish during baking.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
10. Cool and serve: Remove the calzones from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

For an even crispier crust, preheat a pizza stone in the oven and bake the calzones directly on it.

If you prefer, swap ham for turkey or add sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a veggie boost.

Make extra dough and freeze calzones unbaked for a quick future meal—just bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Serve your ham and cheese calzones hot with a side salad for a balanced meal. A fresh Caesar or mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the richness of the calzone.

For dipping, marinara sauce or a creamy garlic sauce complements the savory filling perfectly. If you want to keep things simple, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes on top adds a nice touch of heat.

Enjoy these calzones with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing contrast.

Conclusion

This ham and cheese calzone recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of a crispy, golden crust with a rich, cheesy filling makes each bite irresistible.

Not only is it straightforward to make, but the recipe is flexible enough to adapt to your personal tastes and preferences.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you through each step with ease. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy homemade Italian cuisine without the fuss of traditional pizza.

Give it a try and watch as it quickly becomes a family favorite that you’ll return to again and again.

For more comforting homemade dishes, check out our Classic Margherita Pizza, Easy Chicken Parmesan, and Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken recipes. Happy cooking!

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