Cheesy Ham & Cheese Calzones – Easy Homemade Recipe

Introduction

Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying homemade meal that the whole family will love? Look no further than these cheesy ham and cheese calzones. With a crispy golden crust and a gooey cheese filling, these calzones are the perfect combination of comfort and flavor. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or just want to treat yourself to a special meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make! Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make these mouthwatering calzones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s a lot to love about these cheesy ham and cheese calzones. Here are some reasons why this recipe should be on your must-try list:

1. Easy and Quick: This recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.

2. Cheesy and Flavorful: The combination of ham and cheese creates a deliciously gooey and savory filling that will satisfy your taste buds.

3. Homemade Goodness: Making calzones from scratch allows you to control the quality of ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking.

4. Versatile: While this recipe calls for ham and cheese, you can easily switch up the fillings to suit your preferences or use up leftovers in your fridge.

Ingredients

To make these cheesy ham and cheese calzones, you’ll need the following ingredients:

– Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)

– Deli-sliced ham

– Shredded mozzarella cheese

– Grated Parmesan cheese

– Dried oregano

– Garlic powder

– Olive oil

– Marinara sauce (for serving)

Feel free to get creative and add any additional ingredients you like, such as bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your cheesy ham and cheese calzones:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle.

3. Cut the rolled-out dough into smaller rectangles, about 6×8 inches in size.

4. Place a few slices of ham on one half of each rectangle, leaving a border around the edges.

5. Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella cheese on top of the ham slices.

6. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal.

7. In a small bowl, mix together grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and garlic powder.

8. Brush the tops of the calzones with olive oil and sprinkle the Parmesan mixture evenly over them.

9. Transfer the calzones to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

10. Remove from the oven and let the calzones cool for a few minutes before serving.

Expert Tips for Success

Follow these expert tips to ensure your calzones turn out perfectly:

– Use a good-quality pizza dough for the best results. If you’re short on time, store-bought dough works just fine.

– Don’t overload the calzones with filling, as it may cause them to burst open during baking. Less is more!

– Make sure to seal the edges of the calzones well to prevent any cheese from leaking out.

– For an extra crispy crust, brush the calzones with an egg wash before baking.

Variations and Substitutions

While ham and cheese make a classic filling for calzones, there are endless possibilities for variations. Here are some ideas to get you started:

– Vegetarian: Skip the ham and load up your calzones with a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, onions, spinach, and mushrooms.

– Pepperoni: Add some slices of pepperoni along with the ham and cheese for a meatier and spicier twist.

– BBQ Chicken: Swap the ham for cooked and shredded barbecue chicken for a tangy and flavorful filling.

– Margherita: Use fresh mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves for a lighter and more vibrant calzone.

Serving Suggestions

These cheesy ham and cheese calzones are delicious on their own, but you can elevate your meal by serving them with:

– Marinara sauce: Warm marinara sauce is the perfect accompaniment for dipping your calzones.

– Side Salad: Pair your calzones with a fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

– Garlic Bread: Toast some garlic bread and serve it alongside your calzones for a satisfying and complete meal.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the calzones ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can assemble the calzones ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just make sure to seal them well and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.

Q: Can I freeze the calzones?

A: Absolutely! Once baked, let the calzones cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a preheated oven until heated through.

Q: Can I use different types of cheese?

A: Of course! While mozzarella is the traditional choice for calzones, you can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or Gouda for unique flavors.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly satisfying about biting into a warm and cheesy calzone, and this recipe delivers just that. With its crispy crust, melty cheese, and savory ham, these calzones are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and rewarding to make. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade cheesy ham and cheese calzones!