Three Cheese Ham Involtini - A Flavor-Packed Italian Delight

Three Cheese Ham Involtini is a delicious twist on a classic Italian dish. This recipe combines the savory flavor of ham with a creamy, indulgent cheese filling that makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a comforting family meal, this involtini recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Three Cheese Ham Involtini is perfect for cheese lovers. It brings together a trio of cheeses—mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan—wrapped in ham and baked until golden and bubbling. The cheese filling melts into a creamy, savory blend that pairs beautifully with the smoky flavor of ham. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknights or special occasions.

Recipe Overview

Name of the Recipe

Three Cheese Ham Involtini

Brief Description

This Italian-inspired dish features ham slices filled with a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, baked until golden. It's a flavorful, creamy, and satisfying dish that's perfect as an appetizer or main course.

Ingredients

To make these Three Cheese Ham Involtini, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 8 slices of thinly sliced ham (prosciutto or baked ham works well)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Substitutions

If you need to make substitutions, here are some options:

• Ricotta Cheese: You can use cottage cheese for a lighter texture.
• Ham: Prosciutto or thinly sliced turkey can be used instead of ham for a different flavor profile.
• Mozzarella: Substitute with fontina or provolone for a twist on the classic flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to make delicious three cheese ham involtini:

1. Prepare the Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until the filling is smooth and well combined.
2. Assemble the Involtini: Lay each ham slice flat and place a spoonful of the cheese mixture in the center. Roll up the ham slice around the filling, securing it with a toothpick if necessary.
3. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
4. Arrange the Involtini: Place each ham roll in the baking dish, seam-side down, on top of the marinara sauce.
5. Bake: Spoon additional marinara sauce over the top of the ham rolls. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and the top is golden.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This recipe makes about 4 servings, but you can easily double it for larger gatherings. Here are some ideas to serve your three cheese ham involtini:

• With a Salad: Pair it with a light Italian salad for a complete meal.
• As an Appetizer: Serve as part of an appetizer spread with crusty bread and olives.
• With Pasta: Enjoy alongside pasta for a hearty Italian-inspired dinner.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Three Cheese Ham Involtini contains approximately:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 25g

Storage and Reheating Tips

Here’s how to store and reheat any leftover involtini:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the involtini and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, add the marinara sauce and follow the baking instructions.

What other cheeses can I use?

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Fontina, Gouda, or Asiago can add unique flavors to the filling.

Can I make this without marinara sauce?

While marinara adds a rich flavor, you can omit it or replace it with a cheese sauce or bechamel for a different twist.

Conclusion

Three Cheese Ham Involtini is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a favorite. With its creamy cheese filling, savory ham, and easy preparation, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or as a hearty appetizer, this involtini will add a touch of Italian flavor to your meal.

We hope you enjoy this recipe! Let us know in the comments how it turned out, and feel free to share any variations you tried. Don’t forget to check out our blog for more delicious Italian-inspired recipes!