Elevate Your Snacking Game with Ham & Cheese Roll-Ups
Introduction:
These Ham & Cheese Roll-Ups, made from just three essential ingredients and wrapped in pizza dough, celebrate the joy of simplicity in the kitchen. Perfect for those moments when time is of the essence but the craving for something homemade and comforting won’t subside, this recipe merges the convenience of preparation with the timeless appeal of ham and cheese. Whether you’re gathering friends for a casual get-together or seeking a satisfying snack, these roll-ups promise to please without the hassle.
Ham & Cheese Roll-Ups Recipe
Servings: Makes about 12 roll-ups
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pizza dough (homemade or store-bought, brought to room temperature for easier handling)
- 12 slices smoked ham (thinly sliced for easy rolling)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or experiment with Gruyere, Swiss, or smoked provolone for diverse flavors)
Directions:
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for a non-stick surface.
- Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle, aiming for about 1/4-inch thickness. This will be your base for the roll-ups.
- Add Ham and Cheese: Lay the ham slices evenly across the dough, leaving a small border around the edges to ensure a tight roll. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the ham, creating a layer of melty goodness.
- Roll It Up: Carefully roll the dough from one of the long edges, similar to making a jelly roll. Ensure the roll is tight so the fillings stay snug inside.
- Slice: With a sharp knife, cut the log into 1-inch sections. These will form your individual roll-ups. Place them cut side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the roll-ups are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the roll-ups to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving to let the cheese set slightly.
Variations & Ideas:
- Spice It Up: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese for guests who appreciate a spicy twist.
- Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free variation, substitute the ham with sautéed spinach and mushrooms, ensuring they’re well-drained to avoid soggy dough.
- Garlic Butter Finish: For an extra layer of flavor, brush the roll-ups with melted butter mixed with garlic powder before baking.
- Resting Dough: If you’re working with refrigerated dough, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling out. This makes it easier to handle and shape.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1: Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
A1: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of shredded cheese such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a blend of your favorites for added flavor variety.
Q2: Can I make these roll-ups ahead of time and reheat them later?
A2: Yes, you can prepare the roll-ups in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.
Q3: Can I freeze these roll-ups for later use?
A3: Yes, you can freeze the unbaked roll-ups on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag for long-term storage. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q4: Can I add vegetables or other fillings to the roll-ups?
A4: Certainly! Feel free to customize the roll-ups by adding ingredients such as caramelized onions, roasted bell peppers, or sliced olives for extra flavor and texture.
Q5: Can I serve these roll-ups with dipping sauce?
A5: Absolutely! Serve the roll-ups with marinara sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing for dipping, depending on your preference.
Q6: Can I make mini versions of these roll-ups for appetizers?
A6: Yes, you can cut the dough into smaller pieces and use smaller slices of ham and cheese to create bite-sized roll-ups perfect for appetizers or party snacks. Adjust the baking time accordingly for smaller portions.
