Italian Calzone is a delicious stuffed pizza that is perfect for any meal. With a crisp exterior and a warm, cheesy filling, it’s a treat everyone will love. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it a versatile dish for gatherings or a comforting dinner at home.
Why Make This Recipe
Making a calzone is a fun and rewarding experience. It allows you to explore your culinary skills while creating a meal that can satisfy your cravings. Calzones are not only tasty but are also a great way to use leftovers. Plus, you can fill them with whatever you like!
How to Make Italian Calzone
Ingredients:
- Pizza dough
- Mozzarella cheese
- Ricotta cheese
- Ham or pepperoni
- Spinach or mushrooms (optional)
- Olive oil
- Egg (for egg wash)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Marinara sauce (for serving)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- In a bowl, mix the mozzarella, ricotta cheese, ham or pepperoni, spinach or mushrooms, and season with salt and pepper.
- Place a portion of the filling on one half of the rolled dough, leaving a border.
- Fold the dough over to cover the filling and press the edges together to seal.
- Brush the calzone with olive oil and beat an egg to brush on top for a golden finish.
- Bake on a lined baking sheet for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
How to Serve Italian Calzone
Calzones are best served hot from the oven. Cut them in half to reveal the delicious filling inside and serve them with a warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping. This adds an extra layer of flavor to each bite!
How to Store Italian Calzone
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave for a quick snack or a light meal.
Tips to Make Italian Calzone
- Make sure your dough is well-rolled to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t overfill the calzone, as it will be difficult to seal and may burst while baking.
- Let the calzone cool slightly after baking before cutting into it to avoid spilling the filling.
Variation
You can easily change the fillings in your calzone. Consider using different cheeses like feta or cheddar, or add vegetables like bell peppers or olives. You can also make a sweet version by filling it with Nutella or fruits.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze calzones?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked calzones. Just wrap them well and freeze. When you’re ready to eat, bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
2. What can I serve with calzones?
Calzones pair well with a simple salad, garlic bread, or pasta. You can also serve extra marinara sauce for dipping.
3. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought dough is a quick and easy option that can save you time in the kitchen. Just follow the package instructions for best results.
Now you’re ready to make your very own Italian Calzone! Enjoy this tasty treat with your family and friends.
