How to make low carb ham and cheese stromboli

Cooktop Cove: How to make low carb ham and cheese stromboli

By Robin Donovan

Stromboli! It’s the kind of word that needs to be said with gusto—and an Italian accent—but what does it mean? Good question. A Stromboli is a variation on pizza, much like calzone, where the “toppings” are sealed inside dough and baked. The recipe below is a low-carb version and mama mia, it is delicioso.
The crust is made like a fathead pizza crust, with a low-carb flour, mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, and eggs. It is very low in carbs and high in fat, making it perfect for those on ketogenic diets. You can fill your Stromboli crust with anything you like (as long as it’s low carb!)—

Low carb ham and cheese stromboli

30 minutes

25 minutes

55 minutes

For the crust

2 cups almond flour

2 teaspoons xanthan gum

1 packet instant yeast

3 large eggs, divided

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella

¼ cup cream cheese

1/2 teaspoon salt

For the filling

1/2 cup marinara or pizza sauce, divided

1 cup mozzarella cheese, divided

4 slices ham

Grated Parmesan cheese

Preheat the oven to 400ºF. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the almond flour, xanthan gum, and yeast. Add two of the eggs and beat to incorporate.

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the mozzarella and cream cheese and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.

Add the cheese mixture to the flour and egg mixture and bean to combine well. If you are using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for 3 to 4 minutes, otherwise, turn the dough out onto a board and knead it with your hands for 8 to 10 minutes.

Split the dough into 4 pieces and roll them into balls. Flatten each ball into a round or rectangular shape, about ¼-inch thick.

Spread each flattened piece of dough with 2 tablespoons of the sauce. Sprinkle ¼ cup of the mozzarella over each, and then top with a slice of ham and a sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese. Fold or the dough up around the ingredients to make a log.

Whisk the remaining egg with a tablespoon of water and then brush this wash over the formed Stromboli.

Place the Stromboli on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until they are golden brown.

Let rest for a few minutes before serving and serve hot.