Savory Ham and Swiss Stromboli 🥖🧀

This delightful Ham and Swiss Stromboli is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that makes a fantastic lunch or dinner. With a fluffy pizza dough enveloping layers of savory ham and creamy Swiss cheese, this recipe is not only satisfying but also versatile! You can add veggies, different cheeses, or spices to make it your own. It's perfect for family gatherings or game day!

Ingredients

For the dough

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the filling

• 8 oz sliced ham (smoked or honey-glazed)
• 6 oz Swiss cheese, sliced
• ¼ cup Dijon mustard (or your favorite mustard)
• 1 cup spinach (fresh or sautéed)
• ½ cup sliced bell peppers (optional)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

For seasoning

• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough: In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it's frothy.

2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and olive oil. Add the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

🍞 Make sure not to add too much extra flour while kneading, as it can lead to a dry dough. You want it to be just enough to keep it from sticking to your hands.

3. Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

5. Roll out the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 12x15 inches.

6. Assemble the Stromboli: Spread the Dijon mustard evenly across the dough. Layer the ham, Swiss cheese, spinach, bell peppers (if using), and sprinkle garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and black pepper over them.

7. Roll it up: Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough away from you to form a log. Pinch the seams tightly to seal.

8. Prepare for baking: Place the Stromboli seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Beat the egg and brush it over the top of the Stromboli for a glossy finish.

9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool for a few minutes before slicing.

🔪 Using a sharp knife, make a few slits on the top of the Stromboli before baking to allow steam to escape. This helps ensure a perfectly cooked interior without bursting dough!

Variations

• Add veggies: Try adding sliced mushrooms, olives, or arugula for extra flavor and texture. 🥬
• Cheese lovers: Substitute Swiss with Gouda, cheddar, or mozzarella for a different twist. 🧀
• Spicy: Add jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to give your Stromboli a kick! 🌶️
• Gluten-free: Use a store-bought gluten-free pizza dough for a delicious alternative.

Enjoy your homemade Ham and Swiss Stromboli warm, perhaps with a side of marinara sauce for dipping! 🍅✨