Make A Delicious Ham And Cheese Keto Stromboli

Looking for a tasty low-carb meal idea? A ham and cheese keto stromboli is the perfect option! This stuffed bread roll is filled with savory ham, gooey cheese, and low-carb ingredients. It's easy to make, customizable, and will satisfy your comfort food cravings on the keto diet. Keep reading to learn how to make the best ham and cheese keto stromboli!

What Is A Stromboli?

A stromboli is a stuffed Italian turnover, similar to a calzone. The dough is rolled out into an oval or rectangular shape, filled with cheese, meat, vegetables, and other fillings, then rolled up into a log shape before baking. Unlike calzones, which are made from pizza dough and sealed before baking, strombolis use bread or pizza dough but are left open on the ends when baked. This gives the stromboli filling a delicious caramelized edge when finished cooking.

Benefits Of A Keto Stromboli

One of the challenges of following a ketogenic diet for weight loss or health is giving up bread and baked goods. A keto-friendly stromboli allows you to recreate a comforting baked Italian recipe using low-carb and nutrient-dense ingredients. The fillings used in a ham and cheese keto stromboli provide important vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats.

Some benefits of eating ham and cheese keto stromboli include:

• High protein from the ham and cheese fillings
• Good fats from olive oil, cheese, and cured meats
• Vitamins and minerals from low-carb veggies added
• Phytonutrients from fresh herbs and spices
• Probiotics from fermented ingredients like sauerkraut
• A dose of healthy fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K

Keto-Friendly Ingredients For Stromboli

To make a great-tasting ham and cheese keto stromboli, the right low-carb ingredients are key. Here are some of the most essential items to have on hand:

• Almond or coconut flour - Use in place of regular flour to keep carbs low.
• Psyllium husk - Adds fiber and binds ingredients together.
• Olive oil or avocado oil - Healthy fats for cooking and baking.
• Grass-fed butter - For flavor and moisture.
• Eggs - Help bind the dough.
• Mozzarella cheese - For gooey texture and flavor.
• Cheddar or parmesan cheese - For sharp, nutty flavor.
• Sliced deli ham - Look for uncured ham without additives.
• Low-carb vegetables - Such as spinach, olives, onion, peppers, mushrooms.

How To Make Low-Carb Stromboli Dough

The foundation of a great ham and cheese stromboli is the dough. This low-carb almond flour dough comes together quickly and easily. Here's how to make it:

• In a bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups almond flour, 2 tablespoons psyllium husk powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, and 2 tablespoons olive oil.
• In another bowl, whisk together 2 eggs and 2 tablespoons water.
• Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix until a sticky dough forms.
• On a parchment-lined baking sheet, knead the dough for 2-3 minutes until smooth.
• Place another piece of parchment on top and use a rolling pin to roll the dough into a rectangular shape about 1/4 inch thick.

That's all there is to it! This easy keto-friendly dough bakes up nicely into a tasty stromboli crust.

How To Make A Ham And Cheese Keto Stromboli

Now that you've made the dough, it's time for the fun part - filling and assembling the stromboli! Follow these simple steps:

Prep The Fillings

Gather your desired fillings. For a ham and cheese stromboli, you'll want:

• Sliced deli ham
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Grated parmesan cheese
• Sliced onions or mushrooms (optional)
• Chopped greens like spinach or kale (optional)
• Sliced olives, peppadew peppers, or roasted red peppers (optional)

Slice, grate, or chop any fillings to your desired sizes. Place them in individual bowls for easy assembling.

Assemble The Stromboli

Once your dough is rolled out and fillings are prepped, it's time to assemble. Follow these steps:

• Spread 1/4 cup pizza sauce or hummus down the center of the dough.
• Layer several slices of ham on top.
• Add a handful of cheese over the ham.
• Next add any chopped veggie fillings.
• Starting from the long side, carefully roll up the stromboli, pressing lightly to seal. Pinch the ends closed.
• Brush olive oil over the top and sprinkle with italian seasoning if desired.

Bake The Stromboli

To finish cooking your ham and cheese keto stromboli:

• Preheat oven to 400°F.
• Place assembled stromboli on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Use a sharp knife to make 4-5 small slits along the top of the stromboli.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes until nicely browned.
• Remove from oven and let cool 5 minutes before slicing to serve.

And that's it - you've made an amazing ham and cheese keto stromboli to enjoy! The slices make a perfect low-carb meal or appetizer.

Customize Your Keto Stromboli Filling

One of the great things about making a stromboli is that it's endlessly customizable. Don't like ham? Swap in pepperoni, salami, cooked sausage, or bacon instead. Not a cheese fan? Omit it or use a light sprinkle. Want to add more veggies? Spinach, peppers, broccoli, and zucchini all taste amazing in a stromboli.

Get creative with different flavor combinations! Here are a few delicious ideas:

• Italian - Pepperoni, mozzarella, pizza sauce, onion, roasted red peppers
• Mediterranean - Chicken, feta, spinach, olives, roasted red peppers, hummus
• Southwest - Chili-rubbed chicken, pepper jack, pico de gallo
• Greek - Sausage, spinach, feta, olives, artichoke hearts
• Buffalo Chicken - Shredded chicken, hot sauce, blue cheese, chopped celery

You can also play around with different seasonings and herbs. Italian seasoning, everything bagel seasoning, or garlic powder are all tasty options. Don't limit yourself - have fun developing your own signature stromboli fillings!

Helpful Tips For Making Stromboli

Here are some handy tips and tricks for success when making ham and cheese keto stromboli:

• Use parchment paper under the dough when rolling it out to prevent sticking.
• Chill the rolled dough for 10-15 minutes before filling and rolling if it's too elastic.
• Spread a thin layer of sauce or hummus before adding fillings to prevent leaks.
• Roll up the stromboli gently but tightly to seal in fillings.
• Cut slits in the top so steam can escape while baking.
• Bake on the lower rack to prevent over-browning on top.
• Let cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing for clean cuts.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.

Common Questions About Keto Stromboli

If you're new to making keto stromboli, here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

What can I use instead of bread dough?

Low-carb alternatives include almond flour dough, coconut flour dough, flax meal dough, or wrapping in a low-carb tortilla.

Do I need yeast to make the dough?

No, most keto dough recipes don't use yeast and work more like a flatbread. Using baking powder helps it rise a bit.

Should the stromboli dough be cooked first?

No, the stromboli dough bakes up flaky and delicious when baked stuffed. No pre-cooking required!

What protein can I use aside from deli meat?

Ground beef, Italian sausage, chicken, bacon, steak, or any leftover meat work beautifully in a stromboli.

How long does stromboli last in the fridge?

Leftover baked stromboli keeps well for 3-5 days refrigerated. Let it come to room temp before eating again.

Enjoy This Amazing Low-Carb Comfort Food

Ham and cheese keto stromboli is the perfect way to satisfy Italian food cravings on a low-carb diet. Made with almond flour dough, quality meats, and gooey cheese, this stuffed bread roll tastes amazing while still being keto-friendly. Feel free to get creative and customize the fillings to suit your tastes. Slice up this flavorful stromboli for lunches, parties, or anytime you need a hearty, delicious low-carb meal.

5 Frequently Asked Questions About Ham and Cheese Keto Stromboli

1. What kind of cheese works best in a keto stromboli?

Mozzarella and provolone are ideal for melting into gooey deliciousness. Parmigiano-reggiano adds nice flavor. Cheddar, swiss, feta, blue cheese, and pepper jack also taste great.

2. What are good meat fillings aside from ham?

Pepperoni, salami, sausage, ground beef, bacon, grilled chicken, and turkey all make tasty keto stromboli fillings.

3. Can I make keto stromboli ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the unbaked stromboli completely then refrigerate overnight and bake the next day. Or bake it then refrigerate and reheat later.

4. How do you reheat leftover stromboli?

Baked stromboli slices can be reheated in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Microwaving also works but makes the crust a little less crisp.

5. How long does unbaked stromboli dough last in the fridge?

The dough can be made then refrigerated in an airtight container for 2-3 days before using. Let it come to room temperature before filling and baking.