This Ham and Cheese Calzone is a delicious Italian-inspired baked favorite made with golden, crisp pizza dough wrapped around a warm, melty filling of savory ham and cheese. The crust bakes beautifully golden on the outside while the center stays soft, cheesy, and satisfying.

Perfect for an easy family dinner, weekend lunch, or make-ahead meal, these homemade calzones are simple to prepare and delicious served with warm marinara sauce for dipping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy, golden-brown crust with a soft center.
• Filled with savory ham and plenty of melted cheese.
• Easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
• Great for lunch, dinner, or casual gatherings.
• Delicious served with marinara sauce for dipping.

Ingredients

For the Calzones

• 1 pound pizza dough
• 8 ounces sliced ham, chopped
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 egg, beaten, for brushing
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan, for topping

For Serving

• 1 cup warm marinara sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Divide the pizza dough into three equal portions. Let the dough rest for about 10 minutes so it is easier to stretch.
3. In a bowl, combine the chopped ham, mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
4. Roll each piece of dough into a round about 7 to 8 inches wide.
5. Spoon the filling onto one half of each dough round, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Fold the empty half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together, then crimp with a fork to seal.
7. Place the calzones on the prepared baking sheet. Cut one or two small vents in the top of each calzone to allow steam to escape.
8. Brush the tops lightly with beaten egg. Sprinkle with Parmesan and parsley.
9. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the calzones are puffed and deeply golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the calzones hot with a small bowl of warm marinara sauce for dipping. They also pair well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a light tomato salad.

For a complete family-style meal, cut each calzone in half and serve with extra marinara sauce and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

• Let the pizza dough come close to room temperature before rolling for easier handling.
• Do not overfill the calzones, as too much filling can cause the seams to open during baking.
• Leave a clean border around the dough so the edges can seal properly.
• Crimp the edges firmly with a fork to prevent melted cheese from escaping.
• Always cut small vents into the top to release steam.
• Allow the calzones to rest for a few minutes before cutting so the cheese can settle.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For the best texture, reheat them in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 8 to 12 minutes until heated through and the crust becomes crisp again.

You can also freeze fully baked and cooled calzones for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually and reheat directly from frozen in a 375°F (190°C) oven until hot throughout.

Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)

Calories: 520
Protein: 27g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fat: 24g