Introduction

Ham and Cheese Rolls are a delicious and simple appetizer or snack that combine savory ham, melted cheese, and a soft dough for a crowd-pleasing treat. Perfect for game days, potlucks, or a satisfying lunch, these rolls come with a flavorful honey mustard glaze that adds a delightful touch.

The image shows a deep white rectangular baking dish filled with seven golden-brown swirled rolls. Each roll consists of soft dough with visible layers of melted white cheese and meaty red pepperoni slices. The top of the rolls is sprinkled with black cracked pepper and herbs, giving a speckled texture contrasting with the smooth, gooey cheese. The rolls are close together, filling the dish evenly. The dish rests on a white marbled surface with a folded dark blue cloth with white dots partially visible underneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
8 large slices ham
8 slices Swiss or Provolone cheese
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon poppy seeds
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey

Instructions

Step 1: If using refrigerated pizza dough, take it out 20 minutes before starting to bring it to room temperature, making it easier to roll out.
Step 2: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F and spray an 8 x 8 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 3: On a lightly floured surface, roll the pizza dough into a rectangle about 16 by 8 inches, roughly matching the size of your baking dish.
Step 4: Layer the ham evenly over the dough without overlapping, then add the cheese slices in a single layer on top.
Step 5: Starting at the edge closest to you, carefully roll the dough up into a log so that the ham and cheese are inside.
Step 6: Using a serrated knife, slice the roll into 9 even pieces and place them upright in the prepared baking dish.
Step 7: Bake the rolls uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes until cooked through and lightly golden on top. Check the center of one roll to ensure the dough is fully cooked.
Step 8: Melt the butter and whisk it with Dijon mustard, honey, and poppy seeds to make the glaze.
Step 9: Brush the honey mustard glaze evenly over the rolls, then return them to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until deep golden brown.
Step 10: Serve the rolls warm or at room temperature for best flavor.

Tips & Variations

You can prepare the rolls a day ahead by assembling them in the pan, covering tightly, and refrigerating. Add 5 extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
For a different flavor, try using smoked ham or swapping Swiss with cheddar cheese.
Add some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary inside the rolls for an herby twist.

Storage

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F to maintain crispness, or microwave briefly for convenience. These rolls can also be frozen before baking; thaw overnight in the fridge and add a few extra minutes to baking time.

How to Serve

The image shows seven baked rolls in a red baking dish, arranged closely in two rows with one roll missing from the third row. Each roll has a spiral shape with visible layers of soft, golden-brown dough and melted cheese that is slightly browned on top. Inside the spirals, slices of reddish-pink ham are visible along with a sprinkling of dark herbs on the surface, adding texture and contrast. The baking dish sits on a blue cloth with white polka dots, placed on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pizza dough for this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough works wonderfully and gives you control over ingredients and flavor. Just ensure it’s soft and elastic for easy rolling.

What can I substitute for poppy seeds in the glaze?

If you don’t have poppy seeds, you can omit them or substitute with sesame seeds or a pinch of finely chopped herbs to add texture and flavor.