Ham And Cheese Calzones
Ham and cheese calzones are savory handheld pockets filled with ham, pepperoni, and melted mozzarella, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Unroll one pizza crust and stretch gently to make a 14 x 11-inch rectangle.
- Spread half of the ricotta cheese on half of the dough lengthwise, to within 1 inch of the edges.
- Sprinkle with half of the pepperoni, diced ham, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Fold the unfilled side of the dough over the filled half and press the edges together firmly to seal.
- Transfer the calzone to a greased baking sheet.
- Repeat with the second crust and remaining ingredients.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve warm with warmed spaghetti sauce and optional shredded Parmesan or dried basil.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or bell peppers to the filling. You can substitute the ricotta with cottage cheese for a lower-fat option. For a spicy kick, try adding sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper. If you prefer a lighter version, use whole wheat pizza crust. Serve with a side of Italian recipes for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
These calzones are perfect for a casual dinner and pair beautifully with warmed spaghetti sauce for dipping. Serve with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a fun twist, consider serving with a side of Pizzazz Tomato-Topped Fish for a unique flavor combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 1-2 minutes, but the crust may lose some crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Cheese Calzones contains roughly 1038 calories, with 50g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (103% of the Daily Value), protein (101% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (72% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1687mg per serving (73% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the calzones before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled calzones before baking. Wrap each calzone tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What can I use instead of ham?
If you want to substitute ham, consider using cooked chicken or turkey for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, you can use sautéed mushrooms or spinach combined with extra cheese for a satisfying filling. Adjust the spices to maintain flavor.
How do I ensure my calzones are crispy?
To achieve a crispy crust, make sure to preheat your oven thoroughly and place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brushing the tops with olive oil before baking can also enhance crispiness, giving them a beautiful golden color.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).