Ham & Cheese Stuffed Bread

Ham & Cheese Stuffed Bread is a warm, savory homemade favorite filled with smoky ham and plenty of melted mozzarella cheese. The golden braided crust gives it a beautiful presentation, while the inside stays soft, cheesy, and satisfying. It works wonderfully as a family dinner, party appetizer, game-day snack, or even a hearty lunch served with soup or salad.

Ingredients

1 loaf frozen bread dough, thawed
1 1/2 cups cooked ham, diced
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, optional
1 tablespoon mayonnaise, optional
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon butter, melted
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Preparation

1. Prepare the Oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and lightly grease it if necessary.

Allow the thawed bread dough to come close to room temperature. This makes it softer and much easier to roll and shape.

2. Roll Out the Dough

Place the dough on a lightly floured work surface. Using a rolling pin, gently roll it into a large rectangle, approximately 10×14 inches.

Try to keep the dough an even thickness so the bread bakes evenly.

3. Add the Flavorful Base

Spread the Dijon mustard over the center portion of the dough, leaving the edges uncovered. If using mayonnaise, spread a thin layer over the mustard.

These ingredients add extra creaminess and a slightly tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the ham and cheese.

4. Add the Ham and Cheese

Arrange the diced cooked ham evenly down the center of the dough. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella generously over the ham.

Season lightly with black pepper. You may not need much additional salt because both ham and cheese already contain plenty of savory flavor.

5. Create the Braided Shape

Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut diagonal strips along both sides of the dough, leaving the filling in the center untouched.

Starting at one end, fold the strips over the filling, alternating from one side to the other. Continue until the entire loaf has a beautiful braided appearance.

Carefully tuck the ends underneath to help keep the melted cheese inside while baking.

6. Add the Egg Wash

Transfer the stuffed bread to the prepared baking sheet.

Brush the entire surface with the beaten egg. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning evenly over the top. The egg wash will help create the glossy, deep golden crust that makes this bread especially appetizing.

7. Bake Until Golden

Bake for approximately 20–25 minutes, or until the bread is puffed, deeply golden brown, and cooked through.

Some cheese may bubble from the openings in the braid, which creates delicious crispy, cheesy edges.

If the top begins browning too quickly before the center is fully baked, loosely cover it with aluminum foil during the final few minutes.

8. Finish with Butter

Remove the bread from the oven and immediately brush the golden crust with melted butter.

Allow it to rest for about 5–10 minutes before slicing. Resting briefly helps the melted cheese settle so the filling stays inside each slice.

Serving Suggestions

Slice the Ham & Cheese Stuffed Bread into thick portions and serve while it is still warm and the mozzarella is wonderfully melted.

It pairs beautifully with tomato soup, a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple marinara sauce for dipping. For parties, cut it into smaller pieces and serve as a warm appetizer.

Conclusion

Ham & Cheese Stuffed Bread combines a beautifully golden crust with a rich center of savory ham and gooey melted cheese. The braided presentation makes a simple combination of ingredients look impressive enough for entertaining while still being easy enough for an everyday family meal.

Serve it fresh from the oven when the crust is warm and buttery and the cheese is perfectly melted. Whether enjoyed as dinner, lunch, or a shareable appetizer, this comforting stuffed bread is sure to disappear quickly from the table.