Cheesy Ham Stromboli with Golden Herb Crust Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To achieve an extra golden crust, you can lightly brush the top of the rolled dough with an egg wash (one egg beaten with a tablespoon of water) before sprinkling on the dried herbs. This will provide a beautiful, glossy finish and help the herbs adhere to the surface during the baking process. If you prefer a softer crust, you can cover the stromboli with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking, then remove it for the final 10 minutes to brown.

Experiment with different flavor profiles by adding thinly sliced vegetables like bell peppers or onions, ensuring they are dry before adding them to the dough. You can also customize the herb topping by using fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme if available.

Always ensure that any added ingredients are sliced thinly so they do not impede the rolling process or prevent the dough from cooking through evenly, keeping the overall structure of the stromboli balanced and easy to slice.

Variations

• Spicy Italian: Add a layer of spicy salami or pepperoni along with the ham and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a zesty, flavorful kick.
• Veggie Delight: Replace the ham with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and roasted red peppers for a flavorful vegetarian version that is just as satisfying.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezer

Wrap the cooled stromboli tightly in foil and store in a freezer bag for up to 1 month.

Reheat

Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the crust regains some crispness.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain the quality of the crust as much as possible. While the crust will inevitably lose some of its initial crunch when stored, the flavor remains excellent.

Ensure the stromboli has cooled completely to room temperature before placing it into storage to prevent excess condensation from making the crust soggy. For the best quality, consume any stored leftovers within two days of the initial preparation.

You can assemble the stromboli up to a few hours before baking. Once rolled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake. If baking from chilled, you may need to add an extra 3 to 5 minutes to the total baking time. Do not add the dried herbs until just before it goes into the oven to ensure they stay fragrant and do not become damp from the dough.

Serving ideas

Serve the stromboli warm, sliced into thick, generous portions that showcase the beautiful spiral of ham and cheese. It makes a fantastic meal on its own, but it is also excellent when paired with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

A fresh, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a nice textural contrast to the richness of the bread and melted cheese, creating a balanced dining experience that is perfect for a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends.

For a more complete meal, consider serving the stromboli alongside some roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini. The warm, comforting nature of the stromboli pairs well with simple, bright sides that cleanse the palate.

Because it is so easy to slice and serve, it is also a great option for parties or game days. Simply arrange the slices on a platter and let guests help themselves, ensuring everyone gets a piece of the crispy, cheesy goodness.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Cheesy Ham Stromboli with Golden Herb Crust

Prep 15 minCook 25 minRest 5 minTotal 45 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb pizza dough, store-bought or made ahead
• 8 oz deli ham, thinly sliced
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 tbsp dried herbs (oregano or Italian seasoning)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface or parchment paper into a large rectangle, approximately 10 by 12 inches.
2. Layer the ham slices evenly across the dough, leaving a small border at the edges. Top with the shredded mozzarella cheese, then roll the dough tightly into a log, tucking in the ends to seal the filling inside.
3. Place the log seam-side down on a baking sheet. Brush the surface with a little water or oil and sprinkle with the dried herbs. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the crust is golden brown and crispy. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Contains: gluten, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

420

Protein

18 g

Carbohydrates

45 g

Fat

18 g

Fiber

2 g

Sugar

3 g

Sodium

950 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.