When it comes to comforting, delicious meals, few dishes are as satisfying as calzones. These Italian turnovers are packed with flavor, customizable to your liking, and incredibly easy to make, especially when you use refrigerated pizza dough. This article will guide you through the process of crafting tasty calzones that are perfect for family dinners, parties, or even a cozy night in. Let’s dive in!
What is a Calzone?
Before we jump into the cooking process, let’s understand what a calzone is. Originating from Naples, Italy, a calzone is essentially a folded pizza—filled with a variety of ingredients, including cheese, meats, and vegetables, then baked until golden brown. Unlike a traditional pizza, which is flat and open-faced, calzones provide a delightful pocket of flavor that makes each bite an experience to remember.
Why Use Refrigerated Pizza Dough?
Using refrigerated pizza dough can be a game-changer for those who want to whip up homemade calzones quickly and conveniently. Here are some benefits of using refrigerated pizza dough:
- Time-Saving: No need to wait for dough to rise; simply roll it out and fill it up.
- Consistent Results: Store-bought dough is engineered for consistent texture and flavor.
Additionally, refrigerated pizza dough is widely available and often made with simple ingredients, making it a great choice for anyone looking to make calzones without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we start making calzones, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for basic calzones made with refrigerated pizza dough:
For the Dough
- 1 package of refrigerated pizza dough (usually 1 lb)
For the Filling
- 1 cup of ricotta cheese
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup of cooked and chopped Italian sausage or pepperoni (optional)
- 1 cup of baby spinach (optional)
- ½ teaspoon of garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon of dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
For the Egg Wash
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon of water
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Calzones
Now that we have our ingredients sorted, let’s delve into the step-by-step process of making these delightful calzones.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Before you begin preparing the calzones, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that the calzones bake evenly and obtain that perfect golden-brown crust.
Step 2: Prepare Your Dough
Once your oven is preheated, remove the refrigerated pizza dough from its packaging and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This will make it easier to roll out.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
While the dough is resting, mix together the filling in a bowl. Combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and your choice of meats and vegetables. Add the garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper, and stir until well combined. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, take the pizza dough and divide it into 4 equal portions. Using a rolling pin, roll each portion into a circle about 6-8 inches in diameter. Make sure the edges are slightly thicker to prevent spillage when folding.
Step 5: Fill the Dough
Place a generous amount of the filling mixture on half of each dough circle, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edge. Be careful not to overfill—this can make sealing the calzone difficult.
Step 6: Fold and Seal the Calzones
Carefully fold the other half of the dough over the filling, creating a semi-circle. Press the edges together gently, and then crimp them with a fork to ensure a good seal. Alternatively, you can pinch the edges to give your calzone a rustic look.
Step 7: Prepare the Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. This will give your calzones a beautiful golden color once baked. Brush the egg wash over the tops of the calzones, making sure to coat them evenly.
Step 8: Baking the Calzones
Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Once the calzones are out of the oven, allow them to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve them warm with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce on the side.
Customizing Your Calzones
One of the best things about calzones is their versatility. You can easily customize these stuffed delights to cater to your personal preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are some ideas:
Vegetarian Calzones
Substitute the meats with an array of veggies such as bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, and zucchini. Adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano will enhance the flavor.
Meat Lover’s Delight
For a meat lover’s version, combine Italian sausage, pepperoni, and ham in your filling. Don’t forget a generous amount of cheese!
Cheese Galore
If cheese is your obsession, consider mixing different cheeses like gouda, cheddar, or feta to create a cheesy delight.
Gluten-Free Option
For those looking for a gluten-free alternative, there are pre-made gluten-free pizza doughs available in stores, or you can make your own using alternative flours.
Storing and Reheating Calzones
If you make more calzones than you can eat in one sitting or want to meal prep, you can store the extras. Here are some storing and reheating tips:
Storing
If you have leftover calzones, place them on a baking sheet in the fridge after they’ve cooled completely. You can cover them with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. For long-term storage, freeze them. Just make sure to securely wrap them in plastic wrap before placing them in the freezer.
Reheating
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. If you want a crispy crust, avoid microwaving them, as the steam can make them soggy.
Final Thoughts on Making Calzones
Making calzones with refrigerated pizza dough not only allows you to prepare a meal quickly but also opens up a world of culinary creativity. Whether you prefer classic cheese and sauce, a meat-packed filling, or a garden of veggies, calzones are a fantastic blank canvas for your favorite flavors.
The next time you’re in the mood for a comforting meal, consider making calzones. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delightful dish that friends and family will love. Enjoy this culinary adventure, and don’t forget to share your calzone creations with others!
What are calzones, and how do they differ from pizza?
Calzones are Italian-style pastries that consist of pizza dough filled with various ingredients like cheese, meats, and vegetables, then folded over and baked until golden brown. The unique aspect of a calzone is that it is closed and resembles a half-moon shape, which makes it more portable and less messy than a traditional pizza.
Unlike pizza, which is served flat with toppings on top, calzones are entirely enclosed, which helps to trap in the flavors and moisture from the filling. This results in a delightful, juicy experience when you take a bite into a calzone, as opposed to the more straightforward toppings found on a pizza slice.
Can I use store-bought pizza dough for calzones?
Yes, using store-bought refrigerated pizza dough is not only convenient but also saves time when preparing calzones at home. Many brands offer high-quality dough that rises beautifully and cooks evenly, allowing you to focus on creating delicious fillings without the hassle of making dough from scratch.
To use it effectively, take the dough out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before you start shaping your calzones. This makes the dough more pliable and easier to work with, resulting in a better texture for your finished calzone.
What fillings work well for calzones?
Calzones can be filled with a wide variety of ingredients. Some popular options include ricotta cheese, mozzarella, pepperoni, cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, and even a blend of different cheeses. The versatility of calzones means you can combine flavors and textures according to your preference, allowing for an endless array of delicious combinations.
Additionally, you can easily cater calzones to diets or preferences, whether vegetarian, gluten-free, or meat-lover. Just remember not to overfill your calzones; leaving a little space around the edges will ensure they seal properly and not spill out during baking.
How do I seal my calzones properly?
Sealing calzones is crucial to prevent the filling from leaking out during the baking process. To seal your calzones, start by placing your desired filling on one half of the dough circle, leaving a margin around the edge. Once filled, fold the other half over and use your fingers to pinch the dough edges together, creating a tight seal.
For an extra-secure seal, you can use a fork to crimp the edges, creating a decorative pattern while ensuring the contents stay inside. Additionally, it helps to brush the edges with a little water before sealing, as this moisture can help the dough stick together more effectively.
What is the best way to bake calzones for optimal results?
The best way to bake calzones is to preheat your oven to a high temperature, around 425°F (220°C), allowing the dough to cook evenly and achieve a nice golden color. Placing the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper can prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Baking calzones for about 15-20 minutes is typically sufficient, but keep an eye on them as they bake. They should puff up and turn golden brown. If needed, you can even brush the tops with olive oil or an egg wash before baking to enhance their color and flavor.
Can I freeze calzones, and how should I do it?
Yes, calzones freeze excellently, making them a convenient meal option for later. To freeze calzones, it’s best to prepare them up to the baking stage, so the dough and filling are fresh. Place the unbaked calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them until solid.
Once frozen, transfer the calzones to a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake the frozen calzones directly from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve with calzones?
Calzones pair beautifully with a variety of sides and dips. One popular option is marinara sauce, which complements the flavors of the fillings and adds a vibrant touch. You can also consider serving a fresh garden salad or garlic bread on the side to complete the meal and provide extra flavor.
For a more unique twist, you can serve calzones with a side of pesto sauce or a ranch dressing dip. These options add an interesting contrast to the cheesy, warm calzone and allow you to customize your dining experience to suit your taste preferences.