Easy Ham and Cheese Stromboli for a Quick Dinner Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For an extra golden crust, brush the top of the dough with a light egg wash or a bit of olive oil before placing it in the oven. This simple step adds a beautiful shine and helps the italian seasoning adhere to the surface. Adding a pinch of garlic powder to the oil can also enhance the aromatic quality of the bread, making the kitchen smell wonderful while it bakes.

If the cheese is not melting fast enough, place a loose tent of aluminum foil over the stromboli for the first half of the baking time. This traps the steam, which helps the dough cook through while keeping the cheese protected from burning. Remove the foil for the final ten minutes of the baking cycle to ensure the crust develops that signature crunch that defines a perfectly baked stromboli.

Variations

• Spicy Italian: Add sliced pepperoni and a dash of red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick. Use provolone cheese for a sharper flavor profile that balances the heat.
• Veggie Delight: Replace the ham with sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and roasted bell peppers. Ensure the vegetables are well-drained to keep the crust crispy.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to 1 month.

Reheat

Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through and the crust is crisp.

Store any leftover stromboli in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Keep it in the coldest part of the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

It will remain in good condition for up to three days, though the crust will lose its initial crispness over time. Always ensure the stromboli has cooled completely to room temperature before sealing it for storage to avoid excess moisture buildup.

You can assemble the stromboli up to four hours before baking, provided it is kept covered in the refrigerator on the baking sheet. If you assemble it too far in advance, the moisture from the ham and cheese can make the dough soft.

For the best texture, assemble it just before you are ready to bake. If you must prepare it ahead, keep the dough and fillings separate and assemble right before putting it into the oven.

Serving ideas

Serve the stromboli warm, sliced into thick, uniform pieces. It pairs excellently with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping, which complements the savory ham and melted cheese.

A simple side salad with a bright vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bread and cheese, making for a well-rounded and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare for both weeknight dinners and informal weekend gatherings.

When hosting, cut the stromboli into smaller, appetizer-sized portions for guests to enjoy. Arrange the slices on a wooden board for a rustic presentation that highlights the visible layers of ham and melted cheese.

Provide small bowls of dipping sauce alongside the board to encourage guests to customize their bites. This presentation makes the dish feel like a special treat while keeping the preparation simple and efficient for the host.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Easy Ham and Cheese Stromboli for a Quick Dinner

Prep 15 minCook 25 minRest 5 minTotal 45 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 8 oz deli ham, thinly sliced
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tbsp italian seasoning

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the pizza dough on a piece of parchment paper into a large rectangle, ensuring an even thickness across the surface to prevent uneven baking.
2. Layer the thin slices of ham across the dough, leaving a small border at the edges. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the ham and finish by dusting the surface with the italian seasoning.
3. Roll the dough tightly into a log shape, tucking in the ends to seal the filling inside. Place it on a baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes until the exterior is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbling inside.

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.