Golden-baked and irresistibly savory, these Ham and Cheese Rolls are the perfect blend of melty cheese, salty ham, and a tangy-sweet honey mustard glaze. The use of pizza dough makes this recipe not only delicious but also a breeze to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, planning for game day, or simply craving comfort food, these rolls deliver. Serve them fresh out of the oven or at room temperature for a versatile dish that will leave everyone reaching for seconds. Perfect as appetizers, main dishes, or even a hearty snack, these rolls bring joy to any occasion.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 8 large slices of ham (thinly sliced for easier rolling)
- 8 large slices of Swiss or Provolone cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Roll the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a 16″x8″ rectangle.
- Brush the dough with melted butter, reserving the rest for later.
- Layer ham slices evenly on the dough, followed by cheese slices, ensuring there’s no overlap.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from the edge closest to you. Use a serrated knife to slice into 9 even pieces.
- Place the rolls into the prepared baking dish and let them rise for 20–30 minutes until the dough becomes light and puffy.
- While the dough rises, whisk the remaining melted butter with Dijon mustard, honey, and poppy seeds to create the glaze.
- Pour the glaze generously over the rolls before baking.
- Bake for 30–40 minutes until golden brown. If the tops brown too quickly, loosely cover with foil.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 346 kcal per roll | Servings: 9 rolls
Baked Ham and Cheese Rolls with Honey Mustard Glaze: A Comfort Food Classic
If there’s a dish that bridges the gap between a hearty comfort food and an elegant appetizer, it’s the Baked Ham and Cheese Rolls with Honey Mustard Glaze. Perfectly golden, filled with layers of savory ham and melted cheese, and topped with a buttery, tangy glaze, this recipe is a showstopper at any gathering. Whether it’s a game-day celebration, brunch with friends, or a cozy family dinner, these rolls promise to delight your taste buds and satisfy your craving for something indulgent yet simple to make.
The Story Behind Ham and Cheese Rolls
The concept of wrapping ham and cheese in dough isn’t new, but this recipe elevates the classic pairing to new heights. Rooted in the tradition of savory pastries, these rolls draw inspiration from stromboli and deli-style sandwiches while incorporating a unique glaze that transforms the dish into something extraordinary. The combination of honey and Dijon mustard in the glaze is the star of the show, offering a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and buttery flavors that complement the salty ham and creamy cheese.
Versatility and Occasion
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. These rolls can serve as a centerpiece for a holiday brunch, a satisfying lunch paired with a side salad, or an appetizer at a party. Their bite-sized nature makes them a crowd-pleaser, and their portability makes them ideal for potlucks, picnics, or school lunches. If you’re looking for a dish that can transition seamlessly between casual and formal settings, these ham and cheese rolls are your go-to option.
They’re also incredibly make-ahead friendly. Assemble the rolls the day before your event, refrigerate, and bake fresh when needed. Alternatively, bake them in advance and reheat them just before serving. This flexibility ensures they fit into your schedule, making them as practical as they are delicious.
Customization: Make It Your Own
Customization is key when it comes to recipes like this. While the traditional combination of ham and Swiss or Provolone cheese is a tried-and-true favorite, you can easily adapt the fillings to suit your taste.
- Different Proteins: Swap out ham for turkey, roast beef, or prosciutto for a unique twist.
- Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free version, use spinach, mushrooms, or roasted vegetables as the filling.
- Cheese Choices: While Swiss and Provolone offer a smooth and creamy texture, you can experiment with sharper cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a more robust flavor.
- Sweet and Savory Variations: Incorporate caramelized onions, sliced apples, or even a touch of cranberry sauce to add a layer of complexity to the rolls.
For those looking to incorporate a healthier element, consider using whole-grain dough or adding a handful of fresh greens like arugula or spinach to the filling.
Why the Honey Mustard Glaze Stands Out
The honey mustard glaze is what truly sets these rolls apart. Made with just three simple ingredients melted butter, honey, and Dijon mustard it brings a rich, buttery finish to the dish. The glaze seeps into the dough as it bakes, infusing every bite with a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the savory filling perfectly. The addition of poppy seeds not only adds a delightful crunch but also enhances the visual appeal of the rolls.
This glaze isn’t limited to this recipe alone. It’s versatile enough to be used as a dipping sauce, a marinade for chicken, or even a topping for roasted vegetables, making it a great recipe staple to have in your repertoire.
Pro Tips for Perfect Ham and Cheese Rolls
To ensure your rolls turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
- Work with Room-Temperature Dough: Cold dough is harder to roll and shape. Let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before starting.
- Thin Slices Work Best: Using thinly sliced ham and cheese ensures that the rolls are easy to assemble and bake evenly.
- Don’t Overlap Fillings: Keep the ham and cheese in a single layer to avoid bulkiness and ensure a clean roll.
- Generous Glazing: The glaze is a critical component of the recipe, so don’t skimp! Pour it generously over the rolls for maximum flavor.
- Prevent Over-Browning: If the rolls start to brown too quickly during baking, loosely cover them with foil to prevent burning while allowing the dough to cook through.
A Family-Friendly Favorite
Kids and adults alike will fall in love with these rolls. For families with picky eaters, the familiar flavors of ham and cheese wrapped in soft, buttery dough make this dish an easy win. Add a side of fresh fruit or a light salad, and you have a complete meal that’s both satisfying and kid-approved.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover rolls? No problem! These rolls store beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days or in the freezer for up to four months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up or place them in the oven to restore their crispy exterior. Their ability to retain flavor and texture even after reheating makes them a practical option for meal prep.
Conclusion:
Baked Ham and Cheese Rolls with Honey Mustard Glaze are more than just a recipe; they’re a celebration of comfort food at its finest. Combining the ease of preparation with a luxurious blend of flavors, these rolls are a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients come together.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering, feeding a hungry family, or simply indulging in a snack, these rolls are guaranteed to please. Customize them to suit your preferences, make them ahead for convenience, and savor every bite of their golden, gooey, tangy goodness. Once you’ve tried this recipe, it’s sure to become a beloved addition to your kitchen repertoire, earning its place as a go-to dish for any occasion.