Ham & Broccoli Stromboli: A Comfort Food Classic

My grandmother, Nana Rose, always had a knack for turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary. I remember one particularly blustery autumn afternoon when she pulled a bubbling, golden-brown stromboli from her ancient oven. The aroma of baked dough, savory ham, and melted cheese filled her cozy kitchen, instantly chasing away the chill. Each bite was pure comfort – a perfect blend of textures and flavors that warmed me from the inside out. This Ham & Broccoli Stromboli is my tribute to Nana Rose and her effortlessly delicious cooking. It’s quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 6-8
• Yield: 1 Stromboli
• Dietary Type: Not Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 (10 ounce) package prepared pizza crust
• 1 (10 3/4 ounce) can cream of celery soup
• 1 cup cooked chopped broccoli
• 2 cups cubed cooked ham
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Greased baking sheet

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Make sure the oven rack is positioned in the center for even baking.

2. Unroll the prepared pizza crust onto a greased baking sheet. Gently stretch it out if necessary to form a rectangular shape, about 12×16 inches. Setting it aside will give you space to prepare the filling.

3. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the cream of celery soup, cooked chopped broccoli, and cubed cooked ham. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed in the soup. This mixture forms the flavorful and savory base of the stromboli filling.

4. Spread the soup mixture down the center of the prepared pizza dough, leaving about a 2-inch border on each long side and a 1-inch border on the short sides. This ensures that you have enough dough to properly seal the stromboli.

5. Top the soup mixture with the shredded cheddar cheese. Distribute the cheese evenly over the filling to ensure a cheesy bite in every slice.

6. Now, it’s time to fold the stromboli. Carefully fold one of the long sides of the dough over the filling, and then fold the other long side over, overlapping it slightly. Pinch the seam along the top to seal it tightly.

7. Pinch the short sides to seal them as well, creating a fully enclosed stromboli. This prevents the filling from leaking out during baking and helps to maintain the stromboli’s shape.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the stromboli is golden brown and the crust is cooked through. Keep a close eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary. A slightly darker crust adds a nice, nutty flavor.

9. Remove the baked stromboli from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and prevents burning your mouth!

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Soup Substitute: If you don’t have cream of celery soup on hand, cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup works beautifully as a substitute. Even a béchamel sauce with added seasonings would be a good alternative.
• Broccoli Prep: To ensure your broccoli is perfectly tender, steam or blanch it briefly before adding it to the filling. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy, so aim for a slightly firm texture.
• Cheese Variations: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses. Each cheese will add a unique flavor profile to your stromboli.
• Egg Wash (Optional): For a richer color and a glossy sheen, brush the top of the stromboli with an egg wash (one egg beaten with a tablespoon of water) before baking.
• Make-Ahead Prep: You can assemble the stromboli ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great time-saver when you’re entertaining.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Ham & Broccoli Stromboli warm, sliced into individual portions. It’s delicious on its own or with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. A simple green salad complements the richness of the stromboli.

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat the stromboli in the oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the crust may become slightly softer.

Freezing is also an option. Wrap the stromboli tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	361 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	25g	38%
Saturated Fat	11g	55%
Cholesterol	102mg	33%
Sodium	617mg	25%
Total Carbohydrate	7g	2%
Dietary Fiber	1g	4%
Sugars	2g	N/A
Protein	27g	54%

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

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ham with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers for a delicious vegetarian stromboli.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pizza crust to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup mixture for a little bit of heat.
• Different Vegetables: Feel free to substitute the broccoli with other vegetables like cauliflower, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Crust Upgrade: Instead of pre-made dough, use your favorite homemade pizza dough recipe for even more flavor and authenticity.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Cheddar is a classic, but mozzarella, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses work equally well and offer different flavor profiles.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
A: Yes, feel free to customize the filling to your liking. Sautéed onions, garlic, or other vegetables would be great additions.

Q: How do I prevent the bottom of the stromboli from getting soggy?
A: Ensure your baking sheet is well-greased, or line it with parchment paper. This will prevent the crust from sticking and becoming soggy.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the stromboli and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Q: How do I know when the stromboli is done?
A: The crust should be golden brown and the filling should be heated through. You can insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Ham & Broccoli Stromboli becomes a staple in your kitchen, just as it is in mine. It’s a versatile, comforting dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a casual gathering with friends. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and make it your own. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear about your experience and any variations you made. Enjoy, and happy cooking! Pair it with a crisp Italian salad for the perfect easy dinner.