Ham and Cheese Calzone Recipe

Introduction

Ham and cheese calzones are a delicious twist on classic pizza, combining melty cheese, savory ham, and fresh tomato inside a golden, crisp crust. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner that the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1 pound pizza dough
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (low-moisture is best)
• 8 ounces Smithfield® Anytime Favorites™ Diced Ham
• 1 tomato (seeded and diced)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ cup pizza sauce (plus more for serving)
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 500ºF.
2. Step 2: Divide the pizza dough into 4 equal parts. On a floured surface, roll each piece into a ¼-inch thick circle, about 6 inches in diameter.
3. Step 3: On the lower half of each dough circle, layer about ½ cup mozzarella, ¼ cup diced ham, diced tomato, and a sprinkle of dried oregano, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edge.
4. Step 4: Dip your finger in cold water and moisten the dough edges. Fold the top half over the filling to create a half-moon shape, then press and crimp the edges firmly to seal.
5. Step 5: Place the calzones on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with pizza sauce, then use a sharp knife to cut 2 or 3 slits on top to allow steam to escape.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the calzones.
7. Step 7: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
8. Step 8: Serve warm with extra pizza sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips & Variations

• Use low-moisture mozzarella to prevent the calzone from becoming soggy inside.
• Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Brush the calzone with a little olive oil before baking for a crispier crust.
• If you prefer spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling.

Storage

Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350ºF oven for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness. You can also freeze unbaked calzones; wrap them tightly and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly and saves time without sacrificing flavor or texture.

How do I prevent the calzone from leaking filling during baking?

Make sure to seal the edges well by moistening and crimping firmly. Avoid overfilling, and cut slits on top to allow steam to escape, which helps prevent leaks.

Ham and Cheese Calzone Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 150 reviews

• Author: Thomas
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 calzones 1x

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Description

This Ham and Cheese Calzone recipe features a golden, crispy pizza dough stuffed with melty mozzarella cheese, savory diced ham, fresh tomatoes, and a hint of oregano. Baked to perfection and topped with parmesan, these calzones are delicious hand-held meals perfect for lunch or dinner, served with warm pizza sauce for dipping.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Calzone Dough and Filling

• 1 pound pizza dough
• 2 cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
• 8 ounces Smithfield® Anytime Favorites™ Diced Ham
• 1 tomato, seeded and diced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Toppings and Sauce

• ½ cup pizza sauce, plus more for serving
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 500ºF to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for a crispy and evenly baked calzone.
2. Prepare Dough Circles: Divide the pizza dough into 4 equal portions. On a floured surface, roll each piece out into a ¼-inch thick circle approximately 6 inches in diameter for even cooking and easy folding.
3. Add Filling: On the lower half of each dough circle, layer about ½ cup of shredded mozzarella, ¼ cup of diced ham, diced tomato pieces, and a sprinkle of dried oregano, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edge for sealing.
4. Seal Calzones: Dip a finger in cold water and moisten the edges of the dough. Fold the top half over the filling to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together. Crimp all around to securely seal the calzone to prevent leaks.
5. Prepare for Baking: Place the sealed calzones on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with pizza sauce and slit 2 to 3 small cuts on each to allow steam to escape during baking.
6. Add Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese evenly over the tops of the calzones for added flavor and a golden crust.
7. Bake: Bake the calzones in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Remove from oven and let them rest for 10 to 15 minutes to set.
8. Serve: Serve warm with additional pizza sauce on the side for dipping, making for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Notes

• Using low-moisture mozzarella helps prevent excess moisture, which keeps the calzone crust crispy.
• Make sure to seal the edges well to avoid any cheese or sauce leakage during baking.
• Resting the calzones after baking allows the cheese to thicken slightly, making them easier to eat without spilling.
• You can customize your calzone fillings with additional vegetables or different meats if desired.
• For a crispier bottom crust, bake calzones on a preheated pizza stone if available.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: Ham Calzone, Cheese Calzone, Pizza Dough Recipe, Ham and Cheese Recipe, Baked Calzone, Italian Calzone, Easy Calzone Recipe