Welcome to a recipe that’s bound to elevate your appetizer game to new heights! These Ham & Cheese Roll-Ups are a delightful blend of savory smoked ham and gooey cheddar cheese, all wrapped up in a pillowy-soft pizza dough. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a tasty snack, or simply craving a flavorful bite, these roll-ups are sure to satisfy. Plus, with their simple preparation and versatile ingredients, they’re perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make these irresistible treats!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
- 12 slices of thinly smoked ham
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
- Layer the Ham and Cheese: Arrange the slices of smoked ham evenly over the surface of the rolled-out dough. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the ham slices, ensuring it covers the surface evenly.
- Roll Up the Dough: Starting from one long side of the rectangle, carefully roll up the dough tightly into a log, like a jelly roll. Pinch the seams together to seal the roll.
- Slice the Roll-Ups: Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled-up dough into 1-inch thick rounds. Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each roll-up.
- Bake: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the roll-ups are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the roll-ups from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them on their own as a tasty snack or appetizer.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Flavor: Feel free to customize these roll-ups with your favorite ingredients. Add a layer of mustard or mayonnaise before layering the ham and cheese for extra flavor.
- Experiment with Cheese: Mix things up by using different types of cheese, such as Swiss, provolone, or pepper jack, for a unique twist on this classic appetizer.
- Add Herbs: Sprinkle some dried herbs, such as oregano, thyme, or basil, over the cheese before rolling up the dough for added flavor.
- Make Mini Roll-Ups: For bite-sized appetizers, use smaller slices of ham and cheese and roll up smaller portions of dough to create mini roll-ups.
Keto Versions and Low Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Almond Flour Dough: Replace the pizza dough with a low-carb alternative made from almond flour, cream cheese, and eggs for a keto-friendly version of these roll-ups.
- Turkey Bacon: Swap the smoked ham for thinly sliced turkey bacon to reduce the carb content of the recipe.
Low Carb Version:
- Lettuce Wraps: Skip the dough altogether and use large lettuce leaves, such as romaine or iceberg, as a wrap for the ham and cheese. Simply layer the ham and cheese on the lettuce leaves, roll them up, and secure with toothpicks for a low-carb alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I make these roll-ups ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the roll-ups ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply assemble the roll-ups as instructed, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove them from the refrigerator, slice, and bake as directed.
2. Can I freeze these roll-ups?
Yes, these roll-ups freeze well! Once baked and cooled, place the roll-ups in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen roll-ups to a resealable plastic bag or airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply bake the frozen roll-ups in a preheated oven until heated through.
3. What dipping sauces pair well with these roll-ups?
These roll-ups pair well with a variety of dipping sauces, such as marinara sauce, honey mustard, ranch dressing, or barbecue sauce. Get creative and experiment with different flavor combinations to find your favorite!
With their irresistible combination of savory ham and melty cheddar cheese, these Ham & Cheese Roll-Ups are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or family dinner. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or party food, these roll-ups are bound to disappear fast! So gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your guests with these deliciously cheesy treats. Enjoy!
