Hot Ham And Cheese Rounds
Savory hot ham and cheese stuffed bread with Italian seasoning, melted cheeses, and fresh vegetables, perfect for sharing at family gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. sourdough bread ⓘ
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 1/2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper ⓘ
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced ⓘ
- 2 medium green or red peppers, thinly sliced
- 1 stalk celery, sliced ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon olive oil ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cups (6 oz.) cheddar/mozzarella cheese blend ⓘ
- 1 lb. sliced cure 81 ham ⓘ
Instructions
- Slice off the top third of the loaf and hollow out the bottom, leaving a 1/2-inch shell.
- Combine mayonnaise, Italian seasoning, and pepper to make the filling mixture.
- Brush the inside of the bread with 1/4 cup of the mayonnaise mixture, and reserve the remaining mixture.
- Sauté sliced onion, peppers, and celery in olive oil until tender.
- Layer the sliced ham, sautéed vegetables, and the cheese mixture inside the hollowed loaf.
- Replace the top of the loaf and wrap with aluminum foil.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bread is heated through.
- Slice and serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some Dijon mustard or a splash of hot sauce to the mayonnaise mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ham with roasted vegetables or a protein like chickpeas, which can complement the sautéed peppers and onions. Using a mix of cheeses, such as pepper jack or gouda, can also elevate the dish. Serve with a side of fresh salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
These hot ham and cheese rounds make a fantastic appetizer for gatherings or a satisfying lunch option. Pair them with a refreshing side salad or some crunchy vegetable sticks. For a heartier meal, consider serving with a bowl of tomato soup for dipping. They also pair beautifully with American recipes like Barbecued Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts for a delicious spread.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the remaining hot ham and cheese rounds tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is melty again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Ham And Cheese Rounds contains roughly 1047 calories, with 4g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 101g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 504mg per serving (22% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the hot ham and cheese rounds ahead of time. Assemble the loaf, wrap it tightly in foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
What other meats can I use instead of ham?
You can easily substitute the ham with turkey, chicken, or even a combination of deli meats like salami and roast beef. For a vegetarian option, consider using flavorful roasted vegetables or a plant-based meat substitute to maintain the hearty texture.
Can I freeze the hot ham and cheese rounds?
Yes, these rounds can be frozen before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
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).