A Ham and Cheese Calzone is a perfect on-the-go breakfast, combining the comforting flavors of pizza and breakfast hot pockets in one easy-to-make meal. These calzones are filled with scrambled eggs, diced ham, and cheese, all wrapped in pizza dough and baked to perfection. They’re ideal for busy mornings and can even be made in advance, making your mornings a breeze!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
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12 frozen rolls or pizza dough
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12 eggs
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1 tablespoon milk
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1 ½ cups diced ham
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1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1 egg white
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Dried parsley, sea salt, or sesame seeds (optional)
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Whisk eggs and milk together. Cook the eggs in a greased skillet over medium heat, stirring to scramble until fully cooked.
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Flatten the dough rolls into 5-6 inch disks using a rolling pin or your fingers.
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Evenly distribute the scrambled eggs over half of each dough piece.
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Add the diced ham and grated cheddar cheese on top of the eggs.
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Fold the dough over the fillings to form a half-circle. Press the edges together to seal the calzone. Crimp the edges with your fingers or a fork.
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Place the calzones on a greased baking sheet or one lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg white.
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Sprinkle optional toppings like parsley, sea salt, or sesame seeds.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until golden brown.
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Serve immediately, or store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later.
Nutrients (per serving)
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Calories: 255 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 21g
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Protein: 16g
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Fat: 12g
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Saturated Fat: 5g
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Cholesterol: 186mg
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Sodium: 566mg
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Potassium: 128mg
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Fiber: 2g
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Sugar: 1g
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Vitamin A: 379 IU
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Calcium: 204mg
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Iron: 2mg
A Quick and Easy Breakfast Solution
In today’s fast-paced world, mornings can often feel rushed, leaving little time for elaborate meals. The Ham and Cheese Calzone offers a practical solution to this dilemma. By preparing them in advance, you can enjoy a warm, satisfying breakfast without the stress of cooking on the spot. The best part? These calzones can easily be frozen and reheated, making them an excellent make-ahead breakfast option.
The combination of scrambled eggs and diced ham makes this dish feel like a classic breakfast, while the addition of melted cheddar cheese elevates the flavor. The pizza dough wrapping provides a crispy, buttery finish that contrasts perfectly with the creamy, savory filling inside. Whether eaten fresh out of the oven or reheated the next day, this calzone is sure to become a favorite.
The Versatility of the Ham and Cheese Calzone
One of the highlights of the Ham and Cheese Calzone is its adaptability. While the basic recipe calls for scrambled eggs, diced ham, and cheddar cheese, there are endless variations to explore. You can swap out the cheese for a different variety, such as mozzarella or Swiss, to create a completely new flavor profile. Additionally, if you prefer a vegetarian version, you can easily omit the ham and add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or onions.
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or some hot sauce can give the calzone a zesty kick. Similarly, you can mix in herbs and seasonings to further enhance the flavor, whether it’s fresh basil, oregano, or garlic powder. The recipe also works well with different proteins like turkey or bacon, allowing you to experiment with various ingredients based on what’s available in your kitchen or personal preferences.
A Balanced Meal in One Bite
The Ham and Cheese Calzone is a well-rounded meal that combines protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Scrambled eggs provide a healthy dose of protein, while the diced ham adds both flavor and additional protein. The cheddar cheese brings richness to the filling, and the pizza dough provides the necessary carbs to fuel your day. It’s a meal that will keep you satisfied and energized throughout the morning.
With only 255 calories per serving, this calzone is a relatively light breakfast option that won’t leave you feeling sluggish. The fiber from the dough, combined with the protein in the eggs and ham, helps balance out the meal and prevent an energy crash. This makes the calzone not only a tasty but also a practical choice for those who want to enjoy a wholesome breakfast without overindulging.
Making the Most of Leftovers
One of the advantages of this recipe is that it can be easily made in large batches, allowing for plenty of leftovers. Whether you make a few extra for the next day or bake a larger batch to store in the freezer, these calzones hold up well over time. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven for a few minutes or microwave them for a quick breakfast option.
For storage, make sure to place the calzones in an airtight container or wrap them in foil before freezing. When ready to eat, they can be reheated directly from the freezer, making them a convenient meal that’s always ready when you need it. This is especially helpful for busy families or individuals who don’t have time to prepare breakfast every day but still want to enjoy a home-cooked meal.
The Appeal of Homemade Calzones
While frozen or take-out calzones are readily available, there’s something special about making them at home. Homemade calzones allow you to control the quality of the ingredients and ensure that each bite is fresh and flavorful. Additionally, you can customize the filling to suit your tastes, making it a fun dish to experiment with.
By making the dough from scratch or using pre-made dough, you can create a perfectly golden and crispy crust that’s hard to replicate in store-bought versions. The combination of freshly scrambled eggs, warm ham, and melted cheese wrapped in a crispy dough is a level of satisfaction that pre-packaged calzones just can’t match. Plus, homemade calzones are a fun dish to prepare with the whole family, offering an opportunity to get creative in the kitchen.
Nutritional Benefits
In addition to being delicious, the Ham and Cheese Calzone offers a number of nutritional benefits. Each serving contains a moderate amount of protein, making it a filling meal that provides the energy needed to start the day. The 16 grams of protein per serving help to build and repair muscles, making it an excellent choice for active individuals.
The calzone also provides essential vitamins and minerals. For example, the eggs contribute a good amount of Vitamin A, while the cheese is a source of calcium, which is important for bone health. Additionally, the dough offers a small amount of fiber, helping with digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
Conclusion
The Ham and Cheese Calzone is a simple yet delicious meal that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a satisfying snack. With its golden crust and savory filling, it provides a well-rounded, flavorful start to the day. The versatility of the recipe allows for endless customization, from swapping out ingredients to adding different seasonings and fillings.
Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast on the go, a meal prep solution for the week, or just a comforting dish to enjoy with your family, the Ham and Cheese Calzone ticks all the boxes. Its nutritional benefits, ease of preparation, and delicious taste make it a must-try recipe for anyone who loves a hearty and flavorful meal.