Calzone Recipe
Indulge in the delightful world of calzones, a savory Italian stuffed pizza that’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for any occasion, these folded delights can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re a fan of classic cheese and pepperoni or prefer a veggie-packed option, this calzone recipe will satisfy your cravings and impress your friends and family.
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast
– 3/4 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– 1/2 cup pepperoni or your choice of filling
– Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 calzones. Preparation time is approximately 1 hour, with a cooking time of 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 calzone) contains approximately 350 calories, 15g of protein, 18g of carbohydrates, and 20g of fat. This is based on one calzone per person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Roll out the dough into circles about 8 inches in diameter.
- Spread ricotta and mozzarella cheese on one half of each circle.
- Add your choice of filling and a spoonful of marinara sauce.
- Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges.
- Brush the calzones with olive oil and make small slits on top for steam to escape.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm!
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. You can also use plant-based cheese or mushrooms to make a vegetarian calzone.
Serving and Pairings
Serve your calzones with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Pair them with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to a month. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using cold water for yeast activation can prevent it from rising.
- Overfilling the calzones can cause them to burst during baking.
- Not sealing the edges properly can lead to leakage.
- Skipping the resting time for the dough can result in tough calzones.
- Not preheating the oven can lead to uneven cooking.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different fillings to find your favorite combination.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for better results.
- Brush the calzones with egg wash for a shiny finish.
- Use a pizza stone for an extra crispy crust.
FAQs
Can I make calzone dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator, and let it come to room temperature before using.
What fillings can I use for calzones?
You can get creative! Common options include sausage, vegetables, different cheeses, or even pesto.
How do I know when my calzones are done?
When they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom, they are ready.
Can I freeze calzones?
Yes, uncooked calzones can be frozen. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
What sauces pair well with calzones?
Marinara, ranch dressing, or garlic butter are great options for dipping.
Conclusion
Making calzones at home is a fun and rewarding experience. With endless filling possibilities and a crispy, golden crust, this calzone recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the delicious flavors and share them with loved ones!
Calzone Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup pepperoni or your choice of filling
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Combine warm water, yeast, and sugar; let sit for 5 minutes.
- Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture; stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Roll out the dough into circles about 8 inches in diameter.
- Spread ricotta and mozzarella cheese on one half of each circle.
- Add your choice of filling and a spoonful of marinara sauce.
- Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges.
- Brush with olive oil and make small slits on top for steam to escape; bake for 15-20 minutes.
