Master the Art of Making Delicious Calzones

Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that can be easily customized to your taste preferences? Look no further than calzones! These Italian turnovers are essentially folded pizzas that can be filled with various meats, vegetables, and cheeses. Making calzones may sound daunting, but with the right recipe and technique, it can be a fun and stress-free cooking experience.

To start, you will need to gather your ingredients. The key components of a calzone include pizza dough, tomato sauce, cheese, and your choice of fillings. You can opt for classic ingredients like pepperoni and mushrooms, or experiment with unique flavor combinations like BBQ chicken and bacon. Once you have your ingredients, it’s time to roll out the pizza dough and start assembling your calzone. With a little patience and practice, you’ll be a calzone-making pro in no time!

Making delicious calzones is not as challenging as you may think. With a bit of patience and practice, anyone can prepare these Italian delights in the comfort of their own homes. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to make calzones like a pro, complete with 10 easy-to-follow steps. So, let’s get started!

Gather Your Ingredients

To make a perfect calzone, you’ll need:

• 1 pound of pre-made pizza dough
• 1 cup of pizza sauce
• 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese (or any cheese you prefer)
• 1/3 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup of thinly sliced pepperoni or cooked sausage
• 1/4 cup of diced onion
• 1/4 cup of diced bell pepper
• 1/4 cup of sliced black olives (optional)
• 1 egg white, beaten
• Extra flour for dusting

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. While the oven is heating up, prepare your work area by lightly flouring a clean surface and get your ingredients ready.

Roll Out the Dough

On the floured surface, roll the pizza dough into a large circle. The dough should be about 1/4 inch thick, but not too thin that it will tear when you stuff or fold it.

Add Your Fillings

Now it’s time to add your fillings to one half of the dough. Spread the pizza sauce, then add the shredded cheese, basil, pepperoni or sausage, onion, bell pepper, and black olives if you choose to use them.

Fold the Dough Over

Fold the other half of the dough over to cover the fillings. Press down on the edges to seal them shut. You can also use a fork to crimp the edges for extra security.

Brush with Egg White

Using a pastry brush, apply a thin layer of beaten egg white on top of the calzone. This will give the dough a crispy, golden brown finish.

Bake the Calzone

Place the calzone on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.

Cool and Serve

Take the calzone out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing it. Serve it with an extra side of pizza sauce for dipping.

Experiment with Different Fillings

You can make a calzone with any fillings you like. Try adding ham, pineapple, and jalapeno for a Hawaiian-style calzone. Or how about mushrooms, spinach, and feta cheese for a vegetarian option? The choices are endless!

Make It Ahead of Time

If you want to make calzones ahead of time, you can freeze them before baking. Just wrap them in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Whenever you’re ready to bake them, just take them out of the freezer and let them thaw for a few hours before following the baking instructions.

Conclusion

Making perfect calzones at home is easy with a bit of practice and the right ingredients. Just remember to be creative with your fillings, and you’ll have a mouthwatering meal in no time. Give it a try and impress your family and friends with your newly acquired calzone-making skills!

Ingredients Needed to Make Calzones

Now that you are familiar with the history of calzones, it’s time to get baking. To make the perfect calzone, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Pizza Dough

The most crucial element of a calzone recipe is the dough. You can either make your own, or save time by purchasing premade pizza dough from your local grocery store. The difference is in the thickness and texture of the dough, so choose whatever suits your taste.

2. Tomato Sauce

Next on the list of ingredients is tomato sauce. A flavorful sauce is essential for the taste of the calzone. You can either make a homemade sauce or use store-bought marinara. Choose a high-quality, organic brand for the best taste.

3. Cheese

You can’t have a calzone without a load of cheesy goodness. Mozzarella is the most popular choice, but you can use any cheese that melts well, such as provolone or cheddar.

4. Filling meats

Add your favorite meats to your calzone. Sausage, pepperoni, and ham work well. Cook your meats before you add them to your calzone, so they are cooked to perfection.

5. Veggies

Add your favorite vegetables to your calzone. Onions, peppers, mushrooms, and olives all work well. Chop them up into small pieces and sauté them in a pan before you add them to your calzone.

6. Herbs and Spices

Add a few leaves of fresh basil or dried oregano to your sauce, and it will taste even better. Garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and black pepper add more flavor. Use herbs and spices sparingly, as a little goes a long way.

7. Egg Wash

Brush the top of your calzone with an egg wash before baking. This will give it a nice golden color and create a shiny crust.

8. Flour

You’ll need flour for rolling out your dough. Use it sparingly, so your dough doesn’t stick.

9. Cooking Spray

Spray your baking sheet with cooking spray before you add your calzone. This will prevent it from sticking to the pan.

10. Cornmeal

Sprinkle cornmeal on your baking sheet before you add your calzone. It will help to prevent your calzone from sticking and give the crust a nice texture.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to get started on making the perfect calzone. In the next section, we’ll guide you through the process of preparing your ingredients and assembling your calzone.

Five Delicious Calzone Filling Recipes to Try

Calzones are versatile and endlessly customizable, making them a wonderful option for mealtime. Whether you’re feeding a family, entertaining guests, or just want a flavorful lunch, calzones are the perfect choice. The following five filling recipes are just a few of the countless possibilities out there.

1. Spinach and Ricotta

This filling is both classic and delicious. To make it, start by sautéing chopped spinach in olive oil until it’s wilted. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, garlic, and Parmesan. Add the spinach and mix well. This filling is perfect for vegetarians or anyone who wants a fresh and flavorful calzone.

2. Pepperoni and Sausage

For meat lovers, this filling recipe is sure to hit the spot. Start by cooking chopped sausage and pepperoni in a skillet until browned. Drain any excess grease and set aside. In a separate bowl, mix together shredded mozzarella and Parmesan. Add the cooled meat and mix well. This filling will satisfy even the heartiest appetite.

3. BBQ Chicken

This unique filling is perfect for those who love barbecue sauce. Begin by cooking diced chicken breast in a skillet until it’s no longer pink. Add your favorite BBQ sauce and cook for a few more minutes. In a separate bowl, mix together shredded cheddar and mozzarella. Add the chicken mixture and mix well. This filling is a delicious twist on the traditional calzone and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

4. Mushroom and Spinach

For a vegetarian option that’s just as delicious as its meaty counterparts, try this filling. Begin by sautéing sliced mushrooms and chopped spinach until they’re both wilted. In a separate bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, garlic, and Parmesan. Add the cooled mushroom and spinach mixture and mix well. This filling is both hearty and satisfying.

5. Ham and Pineapple

This filling is inspired by the classic Hawaiian pizza and is a fun and flavorful option. Begin by cooking diced ham in a skillet until it’s browned. Add diced pineapple and cook for a few more minutes. In a separate bowl, mix together shredded mozzarella and Parmesan. Add the cooled ham and pineapple mixture and mix well. This filling is perfect for those who crave a little sweetness in their savory dishes.

It’s important to remember that calzones are highly customizable and you can switch up the ingredients to suit your tastes. With these five filling recipes, you’re sure to find a new favorite. Whether you opt for a classic spinach and ricotta or something a little more unique like BBQ chicken, calzones are sure to be a family favorite. Try making a few different fillings and let everyone choose their favorite – and don’t forget the dipping sauce!

Enjoy your homemade calzones!

Thanks for reading my article on how to make calzones! I hope you found the instructions helpful and easy to follow. Making your own calzones is a fun and delicious way to enjoy a homemade pizza experience. Whether you prefer classic pepperoni or adventurous veggie combos, there’s always a calzone recipe to suit your taste buds. Next time you’re looking for a cozy night in, don’t hesitate to whip up some calzones! And remember to visit again for more easy and exciting recipes. Happy cooking!