Calzone Pizza
Calzone Pizza: A Delicious Homemade Treat
Calzone pizza is a delightful Italian dish that combines the best elements of pizza and a savory stuffed pastry. Originating from Naples, Italy, calzones are essentially folded pizzas filled with a variety of delicious ingredients, sealed, and baked until golden and crispy. Unlike traditional pizza, which is open-faced, a calzone offers a portable, enclosed version with all the flavors you love wrapped inside a crispy crust. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a snack, calzones can be customized to suit any taste preference.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
2½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
1 cup warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Filling:
1 cup ricotta cheese
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup sliced pepperoni or cooked sausage (optional)
½ cup sautéed vegetables (bell peppers, onions, mushrooms)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For Assembly:
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses.
Add the pepperoni or sausage (if using), sautéed vegetables, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Calzones
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 4 equal portions.
Roll each portion into a 6-8 inch circle on a lightly floured surface.
Place a generous amount of filling on one half of each dough circle, leaving a ½-inch border.
Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape.
Press the edges together and crimp them using a fork to seal tightly.
Step 4: Bake the Calzones
Transfer the calzones to the prepared baking sheet.
Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden, shiny crust.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Enjoy your homemade calzones with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Calzones
Prevent Sogginess: Avoid overloading the calzones with too much filling, as excess moisture can cause a soggy crust.
Seal the Edges Properly: Make sure to crimp the edges tightly to prevent any filling from leaking out during baking.
Ventilation: Poke a small hole or slit in the top of each calzone to allow steam to escape, ensuring a crispy texture.
Experiment with Fillings: Try different cheeses, meats, and vegetables to customize the flavors to your liking.
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare and assemble the calzones in advance, then freeze them before baking. When ready to eat, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Variations and Customizations
Vegetarian Calzone: Skip the meat and add more sautéed vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, and mushrooms.
Cheesy Garlic Calzone: Add minced garlic and extra cheese to the filling for a rich, garlicky flavor.
BBQ Chicken Calzone: Swap marinara sauce for BBQ sauce and use shredded cooked chicken, cheddar cheese, and red onions.
Breakfast Calzone: Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and crispy bacon or sausage for a delicious morning meal.
Storage and Reheating
One of the best things about calzones is that they store well and make great leftovers.
Refrigeration: Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Place unbaked or baked calzones in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid using a microwave as it may make the crust soggy.
Why You’ll Love This Calzone Recipe
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps make this a perfect recipe for any home cook.
Versatile: You can customize the filling to suit your preferences.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for casual family dinners, game nights, or meal prep.
Kid-Friendly: A fun and delicious meal that kids will love helping to prepare and eat.
Final Thoughts
Calzone pizza is a fantastic way to enjoy the classic flavors of pizza in a fun, handheld form. Whether you prefer a traditional cheese-filled version or want to experiment with different fillings, this recipe provides endless possibilities.
Give this homemade calzone recipe a try and impress your family and friends with this delicious Italian favorite. Enjoy!
