Easy Ham and Cheese Stromboli

The aroma of warm, yeasty dough baking in the oven always transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. I remember being a little girl, perched on a stool, watching her expertly knead dough for her famous Sunday bread. While this Ham and Cheese Stromboli is a far cry from her traditional recipes, that comforting scent, that sense of home-baked goodness, is undeniably present. This Stromboli, filled with savory ham and melted Swiss, is a simple weeknight delight that even the pickiest eaters will devour – and it’s a dish that evokes those precious childhood memories every time I make it.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 2-4
• Yield: 1 Stromboli
• Dietary Type: Not specified

Ingredients

• 1 (13 7/8 ounce) can Pillsbury prepared pizza crust
• 1-2 tablespoon honey mustard
• ½ lb deli ham
• 1 cup Swiss cheese, grated
• 1 cup broccoli, steamed and chopped (fresh or frozen)

Equipment Needed

• Cookie Sheet
• Oven

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a cookie sheet with cooking oil spray.
2. Unroll the can of Pillsbury prepared pizza crust onto the prepared cookie sheet.
3. Gently roll and stretch the pizza crust to approximately 16″ x 12″. It doesn’t have to be perfect, just aim for a relatively even rectangle.
4. Spread honey mustard evenly over the entire surface of the stretched pizza crust, leaving a small border at the edges. Use more or less to your preference.
5. Layer the deli ham, grated Swiss cheese, and steamed and chopped broccoli along one long edge of the crust, concentrating the filling on about half of the dough. Make sure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
6. Starting with the ham-filled edge, tightly roll the dough towards the opposite edge, creating a log shape. Try to keep the roll as tight as possible to prevent gaps and ensure even cooking.
7. Once rolled, position the Stromboli seam-side down on the cookie sheet.
8. Using a sharp knife or kitchen shears, make small slits diagonally across the top of the crust every 2-3 inches. These slits will allow steam to escape during baking, preventing the Stromboli from bursting.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning.
10. Remove the Stromboli from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Dough Management: If the pizza dough is too elastic and keeps shrinking back as you roll it, let it rest for a few minutes before stretching it again. This allows the gluten to relax.
• Cheese Placement: Don’t overcrowd the cheese near the edges; this can cause it to melt and burn during baking.
• Preventing a Soggy Bottom: If you’re concerned about the bottom crust becoming soggy, you can pre-bake the dough for 5 minutes before adding the filling.
• Egg Wash: For a richer, glossier crust, brush the Stromboli with an egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water) before baking. This will also help it brown more evenly.
• Doneness Test: The Stromboli is done when the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Ham and Cheese Stromboli warm, sliced into 1-2 inch thick pieces. It’s delicious on its own or with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. A simple salad or some roasted vegetables would also complement it nicely.

Leftover Stromboli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap individual slices in foil and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the crust may become a bit softer.

For longer storage, you can freeze the Stromboli. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating as directed above.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	421.2 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	231 g	55%
Total Fat	25.7 g	39%
Saturated Fat	13 g	65%
Cholesterol	114.4 mg	38%
Sodium	1666.2 mg	69%
Total Carbohydrate	12.5 g	4%
Dietary Fiber	2.7 g	10%
Sugars	2.9 g	N/A
Protein	34.7 g	69%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Meat Variations: Substitute the ham with turkey, salami, pepperoni, or cooked sausage.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, cheddar, or pepper jack.
• Vegetable Additions: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, spinach, or olives. Sauté them lightly before adding to the Stromboli.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Pesto Power: Replace the honey mustard with pesto for a more herbaceous flavor.
• Garlic Butter: Brush the finished Stromboli with melted garlic butter for added richness.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pizza crust for a gluten-free version.
• Different Sauces: Try using a flavored mustard like Dijon, or even a thin layer of pizza sauce.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make this Stromboli ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the Stromboli ahead of time, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen broccoli well before using it to avoid a soggy Stromboli.

Q: The crust is browning too quickly, what should I do?
A: If the crust is browning too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time.

Q: Can I add a sauce inside the Stromboli besides mustard?
A: Yes, but be careful not to add too much liquid, as it can make the Stromboli soggy. A thin layer of pizza sauce, pesto, or even a light cream cheese spread would work well.

Q: My filling is falling out when I slice the Stromboli, what am I doing wrong?
A: Make sure you are rolling the Stromboli tightly and that the filling is evenly distributed. Also, allow the Stromboli to cool slightly before slicing to help the filling set.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Ham and Cheese Stromboli is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or even a fun weekend lunch. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings to create your own signature Stromboli! I encourage you to gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on this simple yet satisfying culinary adventure. Share your creations and feedback – I’d love to hear about your favorite Stromboli variations! Serve with a crisp Italian salad and a glass of chilled Pinot Grigio for a complete and delightful meal.