Ham and Cheese Stromboli is a delicious Italian-American baked dish featuring soft pizza dough wrapped around layers of savory ham, gooey melted cheese, and flavorful seasonings. Baked until golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining warm and cheesy on the inside, this comforting recipe is perfect for family dinners, game nights, parties, or quick weeknight meals.
Ham and Cheese Stromboli:
Unlike traditional pizza, Stromboli is rolled into a log before baking, creating beautiful layers of melted cheese and ham in every slice. The buttery garlic topping and Italian herbs add irresistible aroma and flavor, making each bite rich, satisfying, and perfectly balanced. Best of all, it’s easy to customize with your favorite cheeses, meats, and vegetables.
Whether served as a main course, appetizer, or party snack, Ham and Cheese Stromboli is guaranteed to impress guests and satisfy hungry appetites. Pair it with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
History:
Stromboli is an Italian-American creation that originated in the United States during the 1950s. Although its exact origin is debated, many believe it was first created in Pennsylvania by Italian immigrants looking to combine the flavors of pizza into a portable, rolled dish.
The name “Stromboli” was inspired by the famous volcanic island off the coast of Italy and the 1950 film Stromboli, starring Ingrid Bergman. Despite its Italian name, Stromboli is not a traditional Italian recipe but rather a beloved American adaptation.
Over the decades, Stromboli has become a popular menu item in pizzerias across North America. Fillings now range from classic ham and cheese to pepperoni, sausage, vegetables, chicken, and even breakfast-inspired combinations.
Subscribe to our youtube channel Kitchenpedia for more delicious recipes and hit the like button if you enjoyed this youtubevideo. Share it with your friends and Family.
Ham and Cheese Stromboli
Ingredients
For the Stromboli
- 1 pound (450 g) pizza dough, homemade or store-bought
- 8 slices deli ham
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sliced provolone cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Garlic Butter Topping
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh basil
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Red pepper flakes
- Sesame seeds
- Fresh parsley
For Serving
- Warm marinara sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Garlic butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Roll the pizza dough into a large rectangle about 12 × 16 inches.
- Leave a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Layer the ham evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan cheese over the ham.
- Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log.
- Pinch the seams and ends tightly to seal.
- Place the Stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking tray.
- Brush with the garlic butter mixture.
- Cut several small slits across the top to allow steam to escape.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow the Stromboli to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm with marinara sauce or garlic butter for dipping.
Notes
- Use fresh pizza dough for the best texture.
- Don't overfill the Stromboli to prevent bursting.
- Seal the seams tightly before baking.
- Vent the top with small slits to release steam.
- Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
- Let the Stromboli rest before slicing to keep the filling intact.
- Brush with extra garlic butter after baking for added flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips for Ham and Cheese Stromboli:
- Roll the dough evenly for consistent baking.
- Avoid placing filling too close to the edges.
- Bake on the center oven rack for even browning.
- Use an egg wash instead of butter for a shinier crust.
- Add spinach or roasted peppers for extra flavor.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven to maintain a crispy crust.
- Slice with a serrated knife for clean cuts.
- Serve immediately while the cheese is warm and stretchy.
FAQ’s for Ham and Cheese Stromboli:
1. What is the difference between Stromboli and Calzone?
A Stromboli is rolled into a log and sliced after baking, while a calzone is folded into a half-moon shape and served as an individual pocket.
2. Can I make Stromboli ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble it, refrigerate for up to 24 hours, and bake just before serving.
3. Can I freeze Stromboli?
Yes. Wrap the baked and cooled Stromboli tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
4. What cheeses work best?
Mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, cheddar, Swiss, or Monterey Jack are excellent choices.
5. Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely. Spinach, mushrooms, roasted peppers, onions, or olives are delicious additions.
6. How should leftovers be stored?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
7. What’s the best way to reheat Stromboli?
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes to keep the crust crisp.
8. What can I serve with Ham and Cheese Stromboli?
It pairs perfectly with marinara sauce, Caesar salad, tomato soup, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad.
Conclusion:
Ham and Cheese Stromboli is a comforting Italian-American favorite that’s easy to prepare and packed with layers of savory ham, melted cheese, and flavorful herbs wrapped inside a golden, crispy crust. Perfect for family dinners, game-day parties, meal prep, or casual entertaining, this versatile recipe is guaranteed to become a household favorite. Serve it warm with your favorite dipping sauce for a meal that’s both satisfying and unforgettable.