Calzones are a delightful Italian specialty that combines the best elements of pizza into a portable, hand-held format. If you crave the comfort of pizza but want something a little different, learning how to cook a calzone in the oven is the perfect solution. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of making a delicious calzone that will have everyone asking for seconds.
What is a Calzone?
Originating from Naples, calzones are essentially folded pizzas, filled with a variety of delicious ingredients. The name “calzone” translates to “trouser” in Italian, which is a fitting description for this half-moon shaped culinary delight. While the traditional filling often consists of cheese, meat, and vegetables, the versatility of a calzone allows for creative variations that can suit any palate.
Ingredients You Will Need
To create the perfect oven-baked calzone, you need a selection of fresh ingredients. Here’s a list to guide your preparation:
- Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- Ricotta cheese (1 cup)
- Mozzarella cheese (2 cups, shredded)
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated)
- Spices (Italian seasoning, garlic powder, basil, oregano)
- Fillings of your choice (pepperoni, vegetables, cooked sausage, etc.)
- Egg (1, for egg wash)
- Marinara sauce (for dipping)
Preparing the Pizza Dough
You can choose to buy pre-made pizza dough from the store or make your own at home for an authentic touch. If you decide to make your own, here’s a simple recipe for homemade pizza dough.
Homemade Pizza Dough Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups warm water
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
After letting the dough rise, punch it down, and it’s ready to be shaped into calzones!
Assembling Your Calzone
Once you have your dough ready (either homemade or store-bought), it’s time to fill your calzone with your favorite ingredients.
Choosing Your Fillings
The beauty of calzones is their adaptability. Here are some classic and creative filling combinations to inspire you:
- **Classic Pepperoni**: A mix of mozzarella and ricotta with pepperoni slices.
- **Vegetable Delight**: Spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, and mozzarella with a sprinkle of garlic powder.
- **Meat Lovers**: Ground beef, ham, sausage, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
Filling and Folding Your Calzone
-
Preheat the Oven: Before you start filling, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for a perfect, crispy crust.
-
Roll Out the Dough: Divide your pizza dough into equal portions, typically about 8 ounces each. Roll each piece into a circle about 8 inches in diameter on a lightly floured surface.
-
Add Fillings: On one half of the dough circle, begin layering your fillings. Start with a base of ricotta cheese, followed by mozzarella, and then add your chosen fillings.
-
Season the Filling: Don’t forget to sprinkle some Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the fillings to enhance their flavors.
-
Fold and Seal: Carefully fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Use your fingers to pinch the edges together, then crimp with a fork to ensure a secure seal.
Creating the Perfect Calzone: Tips and Techniques
Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind while making your calzones:
Make Small Vent Holes
Before placing your calzones in the oven, it’s essential to cut a few small slits in the top of each one. This allows steam to escape during baking, preventing sogginess and ensuring a golden, crispy crust.
Egg Wash for a Golden Finish
For that beautiful golden-brown color, brush the tops of your calzones with an egg wash made by beating one egg with a splash of water. This step is optional but highly recommended for aesthetic appeal!
Use a Pizza Stone or Baking Sheet
For an added touch of crispiness, use a preheated pizza stone. If you don’t have one, a heavy baking sheet turned upside down will work just as well. Be sure to line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Baking the Calzones
Once your calzones are assembled and ready for the oven, follow these steps:
-
Place Calzones on Baking Sheet: If you’re using a pizza stone, make sure it’s preheated for at least 30 minutes before placing your calzones onto it. If using a baking sheet, arrange the calzones at least an inch apart.
-
Bake: Place your calzones in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the dough has a hard, crunchy texture.
-
Check for Doneness: The best way to know if they are done is by checking the color; they should be a rich golden brown.
Serve and Enjoy Your Calzone
Once you’ve baked to perfection, let the calzones cool for a couple of minutes before cutting. This cooling time helps the filling set up a bit before biting into your delicious creation.
Best Dipping Sauces
A calzone pairs beautifully with a variety of sauces. Here are some recommendations:
- Classic Marinara Sauce: Perfect for dipping and adding that traditional Italian flavor.
- Garlic Butter: Melted garlic butter is an indulgent treat that adds richness to your calzone experience.
- Pesto Sauce: For a fresh twist, use pesto which complements many fillings with its aromatic herbs.
Storing and Reheating Leftover Calzones
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing and reheating them properly can ensure you don’t lose that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
Storing Calzones
- In the Fridge: Place your cooled calzones in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will last for about 3–4 days.
- In the Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual calzones tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Calzones
To enjoy your leftover calzone, reheating in the oven is the ideal way to retain the texture.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the calzones on a baking sheet.
- Bake for about 10–15 minutes until heated through.
Enjoy your calzone warm, and relish the fact that you’ve mastered this fantastic dish.
Conclusion
Learning how to cook a calzone in the oven opens up a world of culinary creativity. With endless filling options and delightful dipping sauces, calzones provide a customizable and delicious meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you stick to classic ingredients or venture into more innovative territories, your homemade calzone is sure to impress friends and family. So the next time you feel like indulging in comfort food, remember—you have the tools and the tips to create a mouthwatering calzone right in your own kitchen. Happy baking!
What ingredients do I need to make calzones?
To create delicious oven-baked calzones, you’ll need a variety of ingredients. The key components include pizza dough, which can be store-bought or homemade. For the filling, you can choose various ingredients such as ricotta cheese, mozzarella, cooked meats like pepperoni or sausage, vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, and seasonings like oregano or basil.
In addition to the filling, you’ll need olive oil for brushing the calzones before baking and marinara sauce or another dipping sauce for serving. By combining your preferred ingredients, you can customize your calzones to suit your taste and dietary preferences, making them versatile for any occasion.
How do I prepare the dough for calzones?
Preparing the dough for calzones is a straightforward process that can greatly affect the final result. If you’re using store-bought dough, simply follow the package instructions. However, if you choose to make your own dough, combine flour, yeast, water, olive oil, and salt in a bowl together until it forms a dough. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Once kneaded, let the dough rise in a warm place for about an hour, until it has doubled in size. After this, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to achieve your desired thickness. Cut the dough into circles, ensuring they are large enough to hold your chosen filling, and you’re ready to fill and bake your calzones.
How do I fill my calzones without making a mess?
Filling calzones effectively is all about technique and moderation. Start by placing a small amount of filling in the center of each dough circle, ensuring not to overfill, as this will make sealing difficult and could lead to leakage during baking. Aim for about 1/3 to 1/2 cup of filling per calzone, depending on the size you are using.
When adding the filling, leave enough space around the edges (about 1 inch) for sealing. Once filled, fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Gently press down around the edges to seal, and use a fork to crimp and secure the edges further, preventing any filling from escaping during the baking process.
What temperature should I bake calzones at?
For perfectly baked calzones, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps to achieve a crispy, golden crust that contrasts delightfully with the savory fillings inside. Preheating is a crucial step because it ensures that the dough begins to cook immediately, providing the best texture.
Baking time typically ranges from 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of your calzones. Keep an eye on them while they bake; once they turn a rich golden brown, they are likely ready to be taken out. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the filling to set slightly.
Can I freeze calzones for later use?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze calzones for later enjoyment! This makes them a convenient option for quick meals. To freeze calzones, it’s best to freeze them before baking. Once you’ve assembled the calzones, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and put them in the freezer until they are firm, about 1-2 hours.
After they are frozen, transfer the calzones to a freezer-safe bag or container, sealing tightly to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, you can bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they are cooked through and heated properly.
What types of fillings work best in calzones?
Calzones are highly versatile, and the possibilities for fillings are nearly endless. Some popular combinations include classic options like ricotta and mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and various vegetables. You can also try different cheeses, such as provolone or goat cheese, for a distinct flavor profile. For a vegetarian option, consider roasted vegetables and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
If you want to experiment, consider international flavors too! Ingredients like seasoned ground beef inspired by taco fillings or even pesto and artichokes can provide a unique twist. Just make sure to balance flavors and textures to ensure that your calzone is satisfying and complements the dough you’re using.
What can I serve with homemade calzones?
Homemade calzones can be served with a variety of sides and dips that complement their flavors beautifully. A classic choice is marinara sauce, which provides a rich and tangy contrast to the cheesy, savory filling. You can also serve them with garlic butter or a creamy ranch dressing for a different flavor experience.
In addition to dips, consider serving calzones alongside a fresh salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A simple arugula salad with olive oil, lemon, and Parmesan cheese can add a crisp, refreshing touch that pairs excellently with the warm, hearty calzones, making for a delightful dining experience.