Three Cheese Ham Involtini, also known as “Hamelloni,” is a creative and delicious take on stuffed pasta dishes, replacing the pasta with thin slices of smoked ham. The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a rich, cheesy filling that pairs perfectly with the salty, savory ham. Baked to golden perfection, this dish is both comforting and satisfying.
This recipe is not only low-carb and keto-friendly, but it’s also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a busy weeknight dinner. Serve these savory ham roll-ups over mashed potatoes, polenta, or pasta for a complete meal. Whether you’re following a keto diet or just looking for a quick and hearty dinner, Three Cheese Ham Involtini is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.
Full Recipe:
- 12 slices smoked ham (thinly sliced)
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
- Lay out each slice of ham and place a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture in the center of each slice.
- Roll the ham slices up tightly to enclose the filling.
- Place the rolls in a lightly greased baking dish, seam side down.
- Sprinkle a bit more Parmesan on top of the rolls if desired.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is warmed through and the tops are slightly golden.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
Three Cheese Ham Involtini: A Savory Delight for Any Occasion
Ham and cheese—this classic combination has graced countless dining tables in numerous forms, but the Three Cheese Ham Involtini elevates it to a whole new level. Known for its rich flavors and versatility, this dish swaps out traditional pasta for thin slices of ham, creating a low-carb, high-protein meal that caters to a variety of dietary preferences. But what makes this recipe truly special? Let’s dive deeper into the background, cooking techniques, and serving suggestions that make this dish a favorite among food enthusiasts.
Origins of Involtini and its Global Appeal
Involtini is an Italian word meaning “little bundles” or “rolls.” Traditionally, involtini can be made with various meats like beef, pork, chicken, or veal, filled with anything from cheese and herbs to vegetables and nuts. In Italian cuisine, it is common to find involtini served as part of a larger meal, often accompanied by sauces like marinara or topped with cheese for a richer finish. While Italy may be the birthplace of involtini, this technique has been adapted by many cultures across the globe.
Three Cheese Ham Involtini is a contemporary twist on this classic dish. The use of ham instead of traditional pasta as a wrapper adds a creative spin, making the recipe suitable for those who are looking to reduce their carb intake, particularly those on a keto or low-carb diet. By replacing pasta with thin slices of cured meat, this version offers a rich, satisfying alternative that retains the flavors and textures that people love in stuffed pasta dishes, but with added protein and fewer carbohydrates.
Why Three Cheeses?
One of the distinguishing factors of this recipe is its three-cheese filling: ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Each cheese plays a unique role in the overall flavor and texture of the dish.
- Ricotta is known for its mild, creamy texture. It acts as the base for the filling, providing a soft and smooth consistency that balances well with the saltiness of the ham.
- Mozzarella, with its melt-in-your-mouth quality, adds an element of stringiness and creaminess when baked. It ensures that the filling remains luscious and gooey, offering a familiar comfort that’s a hallmark of Italian cuisine.
- Parmesan brings the depth of flavor. Aged Parmesan adds a nutty, salty complexity that elevates the dish from simple to gourmet. It also helps create that irresistible golden crust when baked.
Ham: A Creative and Tasty Pasta Substitute
While many stuffed recipes typically rely on pasta to encase the fillings—think cannelloni or manicotti—the Three Cheese Ham Involtini opts for something entirely different: thin slices of ham. This ingenious swap not only caters to those on low-carb diets but also offers a new layer of flavor that pasta simply cannot provide.
Why smoked ham?
- Flavor Profile: Smoked ham adds a distinct flavor that complements the creamy cheese filling. The smoky, slightly salty taste of the ham plays beautifully against the mildness of the ricotta and the creaminess of the mozzarella, creating a well-balanced flavor.
- Texture: Ham is tender yet firm enough to roll without breaking, which makes it an ideal wrapper for the cheesy filling. When baked, the edges of the ham may crisp up slightly, providing a pleasant contrast to the soft, melted interior.
- Protein Boost: For those following a ketogenic or high-protein diet, replacing the carbs from pasta with protein-rich ham is a significant advantage. Each serving provides a substantial amount of protein, making it a filling and nutritious option for dinner.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Ham Involtini
While the recipe itself is fairly simple, there are a few tricks that can help you elevate your Three Cheese Ham Involtini to restaurant-quality status.
- Choose the Right Ham: Thin slices of smoked ham work best because they are pliable enough to roll around the filling without tearing, yet thick enough to hold the shape. You can use other types of ham or cured meats like prosciutto, but be aware that salt levels may vary, so adjust your seasoning accordingly.
- Don’t Overstuff: It may be tempting to load up the ham slices with as much cheesy goodness as possible, but less is more. Overfilling the rolls could cause them to break or spill out during baking. A couple of spoonfuls of the cheese mixture per slice is just the right amount to ensure a neat, well-formed involtini.
- Bake to Perfection: The key to a successful bake is not to overcook the ham. Since ham is already pre-cooked, the goal is simply to warm it through and melt the cheese. Overbaking can lead to dry, tough ham or overly browned cheese. A baking time of about 15 to 20 minutes at 375°F (190°C) should do the trick. Once the cheese has melted and the tops have become slightly golden, your involtini are ready to serve.
- Add a Sauce for Extra Moisture: While the dish is perfectly satisfying on its own, some people like to add a sauce for extra flavor. A light marinara or béchamel sauce pairs well with the rich, cheesy filling and can help keep the involtini moist. Drizzle a bit of sauce over the top before baking, or serve it on the side as a dipping option.
Serving Suggestions: Making It a Meal
The Three Cheese Ham Involtini is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways, making it suitable for different occasions, whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner or hosting a more formal gathering.
- Pair with Side Dishes: To round out the meal, serve the involtini with a starchy side like mashed potatoes, polenta, or a simple pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs. For a low-carb option, you can pair it with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: These involtini can easily be made ahead of time, making them a great option for meal prepping. Simply assemble the rolls, store them in the fridge, and bake when you’re ready to serve. They also reheat well, so any leftovers can be enjoyed the next day.
- Great for Entertaining: Hosting a dinner party or potluck? This recipe is sure to impress your guests. You can customize the filling by adding other ingredients such as spinach, mushrooms, or even crumbled sausage to give the dish a unique twist. The presentation of the neatly rolled ham, with its cheesy filling oozing out, makes for a visually appealing dish that’s sure to delight your guests.
Nutritional Benefits
Aside from being delicious, Three Cheese Ham Involtini offers several nutritional benefits, particularly for those on low-carb or ketogenic diets.
- High in Protein: Both the ham and the cheese in this recipe provide a generous amount of protein, making it a filling and satisfying meal that will keep you full for hours.
- Low in Carbs: By eliminating the pasta and using ham instead, this dish is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it an excellent option for anyone following a low-carb or ketogenic eating plan.
- Calcium and Vitamins: The cheese in this recipe is also a good source of calcium, which is essential for bone health. Additionally, the ricotta and mozzarella cheeses contain vitamins like A and B12, which support eye health and energy metabolism.
Conclusion: A Modern Twist on a Classic Favorite
Three Cheese Ham Involtini is not only a delightful meal for cheese lovers but also a fantastic option for those looking to reduce carbs without sacrificing flavor. The combination of smoked ham, creamy cheese filling, and the ease of preparation makes it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special occasions. With its versatility, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs, ensuring that this dish remains a staple in your culinary repertoire.
In the end, whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking for a simple, satisfying meal, Three Cheese Ham Involtini offers a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition. Serve it up with your favorite side dishes, experiment with different fillings, and enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness that this dish has to offer.