Ham and Cheese Calzon

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ¾ cup warm water

For the Filling

• 1½ cups cooked ham, diced or chopped
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup ricotta cheese (optional)
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons pizza sauce (optional)

For the Egg Wash

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon water

For Serving

• Warm marinara or pizza sauce
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh chopped parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pizza Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, instant yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and allow the mixture to sit for approximately 5 minutes.
2. Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a rough dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for approximately 7–8 minutes until it becomes smooth, soft, and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for approximately 30–45 minutes, or until slightly puffy.
5. If you’re using store-bought pizza dough, simply allow it to come to room temperature according to the package instructions.

Step 2: Prepare the Ham and Cheese Filling

1. While the dough rests, prepare the filling.
2. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the chopped ham, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and ricotta cheese if using.
3. Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper.
4. Mix gently until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. If you prefer a slightly richer flavor, add a small amount of pizza sauce. Avoid adding too much sauce because excess moisture can make the inside of the calzone soggy.
6. Set the filling aside.

Step 3: Divide and Roll the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Transfer the rested dough to a lightly floured surface and divide it into four equal portions.
3. Roll each portion into a circle approximately 7–8 inches wide and about ¼ inch thick.
4. Try to keep the edges slightly thicker than the center. This makes folding and sealing the calzones easier.

Step 4: Add the Filling

1. Spoon an equal amount of the ham and cheese mixture onto one half of each dough circle.
2. Leave approximately ½ inch of space around the edges so you can seal the calzones properly.
3. Avoid overfilling because too much filling can cause the dough to open during baking.
4. Brush the exposed edges lightly with water to help them stick together.

Step 5: Fold and Seal the Calzones

1. Fold the empty half of each dough circle over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
2. Press the edges together using your fingers.
3. For a decorative and secure seal, fold the edges inward and press with a fork.
4. Make sure there are no open gaps where the melted cheese could escape during baking.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

1. Arrange the prepared calzones on the lined baking sheet, leaving enough space between each one.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to make an egg wash.
3. Brush the tops of each calzone with the egg wash. This helps create a beautiful golden-brown crust.
4. Using a sharp knife, cut one or two small slits into the top of each calzone. These openings allow steam to escape while baking.
5. Sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese over the tops if desired.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for approximately 20–25 minutes, or until the calzones are puffed, golden brown, and cooked through.
3. The cheese inside should be completely melted, and the crust should feel firm and crisp.
4. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the calzones to rest for approximately 5–10 minutes before serving.
5. This resting time helps the melted cheese settle and makes the calzones easier to cut.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

1. Transfer the warm calzones to a serving plate.
2. Sprinkle fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese over the top.
3. Serve with warm marinara sauce or your favorite pizza dipping sauce.
4. Your delicious Ham and Cheese Calzone is ready to enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 590 kcal · Protein: 32 g · Fat: 25 g · Carbohydrates: 59 g Dietary · Saturated Fat: 12 g · Fiber: 2 g · Sugar: 4 g · Sodium: 1,180 mg