3-Ingredient Baked Ham Cheese

When you need a snack or quick meal that everyone will love but you do not want extra fuss or mess these baked ham and cheese rollups are the solution Every time I pull them out of the oven the smell brings everyone to the kitchen No one can resist melted cheese with savory ham all swirled up in warm pizza dough

When my son had friends over last weekend they were all standing in line waiting for the rolls to cool enough to eat Even the picky eaters asked for seconds

Ingredients

• Pizza dough: One ball of pizza dough gives the perfect chewy base and wraps up all the goodness Fresh or store bought works just make sure it is at room temperature for easier rolling

• Deli ham: Eight ounces of thinly sliced deli ham brings a classic salty flavor to each bite For best taste ask your deli for honey or smoked ham sliced on the thinner side

• Mozzarella cheese: One cup shredded mozzarella cheese turns gooey and golden as it bakes Look for low moisture mozzarella for less sogginess inside your rolls

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

Let the pizza dough rest at room temperature about twenty minutes to relax the gluten this stops shrinking while you roll

Roll Out the Dough:

On a lightly floured surface use your hands or a rolling pin to spread the dough into a twelve by eight inch rectangle Try for even thickness so your rollups bake consistently

Add the Layers:

Lay out the ham slices evenly leaving about half an inch bare all around so the cheese does not spill out Top with mozzarella spreading right to the edges for full coverage

Roll and Seal:

Starting at a short end tightly roll up the dough into a log shape Once rolled pinch the edges together with your fingers to seal well

Bake the Rollups:

Place the roll seam side down on a greased baking sheet Bake at four hundred degrees Fahrenheit for forty five to fifty minutes until deeply golden and crisp on the outside Allow at least ten minutes to cool so it slices cleanly

Slice and Serve:

Use a serrated knife to cut the log into eight even slices Sprinkle with parsley if you like and serve with mustard or horseradish sauce for dipping

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Mozzarella is the star for me It gets that classic cheese pull and browns in all the best spots My family always hovers around the kitchen asking when it is finally time to cut into the rollups and share

Storage Tips

Keep leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days You can reheat in the oven at three hundred and fifty degrees until warmed to crisp up the outside again For longer storage wrap individual pieces well and freeze Then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use Swiss cheese or provolone for a different flavor twist Turkey works great instead of ham and even gluten free pizza dough will do in a pinch Some people like adding a thin layer of pesto or spreading Dijon mustard before rolling for extra zip

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Serving Suggestions

These rollups work as a hearty snack appetizer or even with soup for a full meal Cut into thinner pinwheels for parties or slice thick for dinner serving A side of crisp salad balances the richness of the cheese and ham nicely A small bowl of tangy mustard on the side is always the favorite dip in our house

Cultural and Historical Context

Baked rollups like these have roots in traditional Italian stromboli or American deli counter pinwheels Now they are a staple at gatherings and potlucks because they check all the boxes for crowd pleasing comfort food This version keeps it simple letting the flavors of ham and cheese shine the most

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, provolone, Swiss, or cheddar can be used in place of mozzarella for a different flavor.

→ How do I prevent the rollups from getting soggy?

Ensure the dough is rolled thinly and bake until deeply golden for a crisp outer crust.

→ What dipping sauces go well with these rollups?

Mustard, horseradish sauce, or even marinara make great accompaniments for extra flavor.

→ Can I prepare these in advance?

Yes, assemble and chill the rollups ahead, then bake when ready to serve for freshness.

→ Is it possible to use pre-made dough?

Pre-made pizza dough works perfectly and saves time in preparing this dish.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Cool completely, then wrap and refrigerate. Reheat in the oven for best texture.