Savory ham and cheese stuffed potato bread is the kind of recipe that makes your kitchen smell irresistible and your table feel complete. This is not your ordinary bread—it combines the softness of a potato-based dough with a rich, cheesy filling of mozzarella, ham, and tomatoes. Every slice brings together fluffy bread, gooey melted cheese, and smoky ham with just the right hint of herbs. It’s versatile enough to serve as a main dish with a salad, as a party snack, or even as a hearty breakfast treat. The creamy texture from the potato in the dough makes this bread extra tender, while the filling transforms it into a meal all by itself.
Ingredients for the Dough
• 2 eggs
• 200 grams of potatoes
• 1 medium onion
• 200 milliliters of milk at room temperature
• 25 grams of Parmesan cheese (or 1 teaspoon of salt)
• 30 milliliters of oil (or 30 grams of margarine or butter)
• 200 grams of cream
• 250 grams of unleavened wheat flour (all-purpose flour)
• 1 tablespoon of baking powder (cake yeast)
Ingredients for the Filling
• 200 grams of ham
• 200 grams of mozzarella cheese
• 2 tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste (or prepared tomato sauce)
Ingredients for the Finishing
• 150 grams of mozzarella cheese
• Parsley, chives, oregano, or your favorite green seasoning
Cooking Directions
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Peel, chop, and boil the potatoes until soft, then mash them until smooth. Let them cool slightly.
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In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, eggs, chopped onion, milk, Parmesan cheese, oil, cream, flour, and baking powder. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead lightly until smooth.
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Cover the dough and let it rest for about 15 minutes while you prepare the filling.
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Chop the ham and tomatoes into small cubes. Combine them with the mozzarella and tomato paste, mixing well to create a flavorful filling.
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Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and lightly grease a baking dish or pan.
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Roll out half the dough and place it in the prepared dish, spreading it evenly to form the base.
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Spread the ham, cheese, and tomato filling over the base layer.
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Roll out the remaining dough and place it carefully over the filling to create the top layer, sealing the edges.
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Brush the top lightly with oil or butter, then sprinkle with the extra mozzarella cheese and your choice of parsley, chives, or oregano.
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Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly on top.
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Allow to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrients
• Calories: ~290 per serving
• Protein: 12 g
• Fat: 14 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Calcium: High from cheese and cream
• Vitamins: B-complex from flour, C from tomatoes, A from herbs
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This stuffed potato bread is pure comfort food with a gourmet twist. The potato in the dough gives it a softness that regular bread just doesn’t have, and when you cut into it, you’re greeted with a melty, savory filling that makes every bite a pleasure. It’s a great way to turn simple ingredients into something extraordinary, and it works for any occasion. Kids love it for its cheesy goodness, while adults appreciate the depth of flavor and the heartiness that makes it a full meal.
The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish
Stuffed breads have existed in many forms across cultures, from Italian stromboli to Eastern European piroshki. This recipe takes inspiration from both traditional potato-based doughs and Mediterranean-style stuffed breads. The use of potatoes in dough is not only practical—helping it stay moist and tender—but also rooted in old farmhouse cooking, where nothing went to waste. This dish brings that rustic heritage into a modern kitchen, where convenience meets flavor in the best possible way.
Ingredient Spotlight
Potatoes play the starring role in the dough, creating a soft and slightly sweet base that sets this bread apart from regular loaves. The cream adds richness, ensuring the crumb stays tender and moist. Parmesan cheese provides a savory punch, balancing the creaminess. For the filling, mozzarella brings the gooey melt factor we all love, while ham adds a smoky, salty layer of flavor. Tomatoes and tomato paste provide acidity and freshness, preventing the bread from feeling too heavy. And finally, the finishing herbs—parsley, oregano, or chives—elevate the dish with fragrance and color.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 10 minutes, which helps maintain the crispy top and melty filling. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can make the bread soggy. If you want to store it longer, freeze individual slices in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven before serving.
Common Variations to Try
This recipe is a canvas for endless variations. You can swap ham for cooked chicken, ground beef, or even shredded rotisserie chicken. For a vegetarian version, fill it with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and feta cheese. If you want a spicier option, add jalapeños, chili flakes, or pepper jack cheese. For a breakfast-inspired version, stuff it with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheddar. The dough itself is forgiving and can adapt to whatever flavors you want to highlight.
Pairing Recommendations
Serve this bread with a crisp green salad to balance out the richness, or alongside a bowl of tomato soup for a cozy dinner. It also pairs beautifully with a glass of light red wine like Pinot Noir or a sparkling beverage that cuts through the creaminess. For breakfast or brunch, enjoy it with a cup of coffee or freshly squeezed orange juice. It’s versatile enough to be paired with simple sides or more elaborate meals.
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Health Benefits
While this is an indulgent dish, it still has nutritional benefits. Potatoes offer potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, while spinach or herbs in the finishing layer provide antioxidants. Cheese and cream are excellent sources of calcium and protein, helping build strong bones and muscles. Eggs enrich the dough with protein and B vitamins. By balancing this bread with fresh vegetables or salad, you get both indulgence and nutrition on your plate.
Conclusion
Savory ham and cheese stuffed potato bread is the ultimate combination of comfort and flavor. With its fluffy potato-based dough, creamy filling, and golden cheesy topping, it’s the kind of recipe that brings people together around the table. Whether you serve it hot out of the oven for dinner, prepare it as a party snack, or enjoy it reheated the next day, it never disappoints. This dish shows how simple, everyday ingredients can be transformed into something truly special—a hearty bread that feels like a meal in itself and will surely become a family favorite.