Ham Calzones: A Family Favorite Recipe

The aroma of baking bread, mingled with savory ham and melted mozzarella, always transports me back to my childhood kitchen. My mom, a culinary explorer, discovered this recipe in a magazine years ago, and it quickly became a Sunday night staple. We’d gather around the table, eagerly anticipating the first bite of the warm, cheesy filling encased in golden-brown crust. It’s a simple, comforting dish that embodies the love and warmth of family meals.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 10
• Yield: 10 calzones
• Dietary Type: Not specified (contains dairy and gluten)

Ingredients

• 2 2⁄3 cups ricotta cheese
• 10 ounces boneless ham, chopped
• 6 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1⁄8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (more or less for taste)
• 2 loaves frozen bread dough, thawed and risen
• Vegetable oil

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Cookie sheets
• Pastry brush (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the center for even baking.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped ham, shredded mozzarella cheese, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir until the ingredients are thoroughly blended. Taste and adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference – a little goes a long way!

3. Take each loaf of thawed bread dough and either tear or cut it into five equal pieces. You should now have ten portions of dough in total.

4. On a lightly floured surface, flatten each piece of dough into a 5-inch circle. This step can be a bit tricky at first, but with practice, it becomes much easier. I find that using my hands to gently stretch the dough is the most effective method. Alternatively, you can use a rolling pin, but be careful not to make the dough too thin.

5. Place about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of the filling in the center of each flattened dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make it difficult to seal the calzone properly and may cause it to burst during baking.

6. Fold the dough over to one side, creating a half-moon shape. Ensure the edges align neatly.

7. Seal the edges of the calzone tightly by squeezing them together with your fingers. You can also use the tines of a fork to press the edges together for a more decorative and secure seal. This will prevent the filling from escaping during baking.

8. Place the assembled calzones on ungreased cookie sheets. Leave some space between each calzone to allow for even baking.

9. Brush the tops of the calzones with vegetable oil. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown color and a slightly crispy crust.

10. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the calzones are golden brown. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on them. A good way to check for doneness is to insert a toothpick into the center of a calzone – it should come out clean.

11. Remove the baked calzones from the oven and let them cool slightly on the cookie sheets before serving. This will prevent them from being too hot to handle.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, try using smoked ham instead of regular boneless ham.
• If you want a crispier crust, brush the calzones with a mixture of egg yolk and water instead of vegetable oil.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings! Add your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or meats to create your own signature calzone.
• If your dough is too sticky to work with, add a little more flour to your work surface.
• To prevent the filling from leaking out during baking, make sure the edges of the calzones are sealed tightly.
• If you are preparing these ahead of time, you can assemble them and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent the dough from drying out.
• For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle some garlic powder or Italian seasoning on top of the calzones before baking.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these delicious ham calzones warm, straight from the oven. They’re perfect as a main course for lunch or dinner, or as a hearty snack. They pair well with a simple side salad or a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping.

Leftover calzones can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a microwave, but the crust may become a bit softer.

For longer storage, you can freeze the baked calzones. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed above.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	203 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	126 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	14.1 g	21%
Saturated Fat	8.2 g	40%
Cholesterol	67.1 mg	22%
Sodium	504.9 mg	21%
Total Carbohydrate	2.6 g	0%
Dietary Fiber	0 g	0%
Sugars	0.4 g	1%
Protein	16.1 g	32%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian: Substitute the ham with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for an extra kick.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone, fontina, or Gruyère.
• Crust: For a thinner crust, use pizza dough instead of bread dough. You can also find gluten-free pizza dough options for those with dietary restrictions.
• Herbs: Add fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley to the filling for added flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use pre-made pizza dough instead of bread dough?
A: Yes, pre-made pizza dough is a great substitute. It will result in a slightly thinner and crispier crust.

Q: Can I freeze the calzones before baking?
A: While it’s best to bake them fresh, you can freeze them unbaked. Assemble as directed, then freeze on a baking sheet before wrapping individually for longer storage. Thaw completely before baking.

Q: How do I prevent the filling from leaking out during baking?
A: Ensure the edges are sealed tightly by pressing them together firmly or using a fork. Avoid overfilling the calzones.

Q: Can I add vegetables to the filling?
A: Absolutely! Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or peppers would be delicious additions. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture from the vegetables before adding them to the filling.

Q: What is the best way to reheat leftover calzones?
A: Reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) will give you the best results, preserving the crust’s texture. Microwaving is faster but can make the crust softer.

Final Thoughts

This Ham Calzone recipe is a delightful and versatile dish that’s sure to become a family favorite in your home, just as it is in mine. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different fillings and flavors to create your own unique version. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your feedback – I’d love to hear about your culinary creations! Serve these calzones with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine for a complete and satisfying meal. Happy cooking!