Description
Ham and Cheese Roll-Ups
Ingredients:
For the roll-ups:
8 slices of deli ham
8 slices of Swiss or mozzarella cheese
8 lasagna sheets or pre-cooked crepes
For the béchamel sauce:
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups milk
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
For the topping:
1/2 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or Parmesan)
1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Instructions:
1. Prepare the béchamel sauce:
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens.
Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Set aside.
2. Assemble the roll-ups:
Lay out the lasagna sheets or crepes flat. Place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese on each sheet.
Roll each sheet tightly, forming a cylinder.
3. Arrange in a baking dish:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce at the bottom of a greased baking dish. Arrange the roll-ups seam-side down in the dish.
4. Add béchamel and toppings:
Pour the remaining béchamel sauce over the roll-ups, ensuring they are fully covered.
Sprinkle shredded cheese and dried thyme or Italian seasoning on top.
5. Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
6. Serve:
Let the roll-ups cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect roll-ups every time. First, ensure your lasagna sheets are cooked al dente if using, and pat them dry to prevent a soggy dish. For the béchamel, warm the milk slightly before adding it to the butter-flour roux; this prevents lumps and ensures a silky texture. When assembling, place the ham and cheese slightly off-center on the sheet for easier rolling. Roll tightly, but not so tight that the filling squeezes out. Use a 9×13 inch baking dish for ideal arrangement. Before baking, cover the dish with foil for the first 15 minutes to prevent the topping from burning, then uncover for the final 10 minutes to achieve a perfect golden-brown crust.
Serving Suggestions
These rich and creamy roll-ups pair beautifully with lighter, fresh sides. Serve them alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a heartier meal, add steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or garlic sautéed spinach. They also make an excellent main dish for a brunch buffet, complemented by fresh fruit. For a comforting dinner, a simple bowl of tomato soup is the perfect partner.
How-to Summary
In summary: make a béchamel sauce, assemble ham and cheese inside lasagna sheets or crepes, roll them up, place in a dish, cover with more sauce and cheese, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these roll-ups ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the roll-ups in the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the béchamel and toppings just before baking. You may need to add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I use a different cheese? Yes. Provolone, Gruyère, or a sharp cheddar are excellent substitutes for Swiss or mozzarella, offering different flavor profiles.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
Can I freeze ham and cheese roll-ups? Yes, but freeze them before baking. Assemble in a freezer-safe dish, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before adding sauce, topping, and baking.
What can I use instead of lasagna sheets? Pre-cooked crepes are ideal. You can also use large flour tortillas or even thinly sliced chicken or eggplant for a low-carb version.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls: 1) Overcooking the roux: Cook the butter and flour just until fragrant and blonde; a dark roux will alter the sauce’s flavor. 2) Adding cold milk: This almost guarantees lumps. Use warm or room-temperature milk. 3) Overfilling the rolls: Too much filling makes them difficult to roll and can cause bursting. 4) Skipping the bottom sauce layer: This thin layer prevents sticking and adds moisture. 5) Not letting it rest: Cutting into the roll-ups immediately will cause them to fall apart. Let them set for 5-10 minutes.
Conclusion
Ham and Cheese Roll-Ups are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that masterfully combines simple ingredients into elegant comfort food. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common errors, you can create a reliably delicious meal perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses, meats, or bases to make the recipe your own. With the make-ahead tips provided, this dish can also be a lifesaver for busy schedules. Enjoy the creamy, savory, and satisfying results of your culinary effort.