Calzone Recipe

Byarlo Jack
Calzone Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy, and perfectly baked treat, a homemade Calzone is exactly what you need. A calzone is an Italian folded pizza, stuffed with gooey cheese, rich tomato sauce, and your favorite fillings, all wrapped in golden, fluffy dough. Whether you want to impress guests or enjoy a hearty family dinner, this recipe delivers flavor and satisfaction in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this calzone recipe because it combines the best parts of pizza, the stretchy cheese, tangy sauce, and warm crust; into a neat, hand-held pocket. It’s fun to make, customizable, and perfect for using up leftovers. Plus, it freezes beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or busy weeknights.

Nutritional Info

A medium calzone typically contains around 420–500 calories, depending on your fillings. It provides 20–25g protein, 15–20g fat, and 45–50g carbohydrates. Opt for whole wheat dough or veggie fillings for a healthier twist.

Time Taken

Preparation: 20 minutes
Cooking: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup pizza sauce
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup ricotta cheese
  • ½ cup cooked chicken, sausage, or mushrooms
  • ½ onion, finely chopped
  • ½ bell pepper, diced
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
  2. Roll out your pizza dough into circles about 7–8 inches wide.
  3. Spread a spoonful of pizza sauce on one half of each dough circle, leaving the edges clean.
  4. Add mozzarella, ricotta, and your choice of fillings.
  5. Sprinkle oregano, salt, and pepper over the top.
  6. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges with a fork to seal.
  7. Brush the top with egg wash for a golden finish.
  8. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
  9. Let cool for a few minutes before serving with extra pizza sauce for dipping.
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You Must Know

Never overfill the calzones — too much filling causes leaks during baking. Also, make sure to pinch the edges firmly to prevent the sauce from escaping.

Storage Tips

Store cooled calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to restore the crispiness.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Use whole wheat dough for extra fiber.
  • Replace mozzarella with cheddar or provolone for a richer taste.
  • Substitute chicken with tofu or spinach for a vegetarian version.
  • Try marinara or Alfredo sauce instead of pizza sauce for variety.

Serving Suggestions

Serve calzones with a side of Caesar salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. They also pair wonderfully with tomato soup or a cold drink for a satisfying meal.

Cultural and Historical Context

The calzone originated in Naples, Italy, as a portable alternative to pizza. Traditionally eaten on the go, it has evolved into a global favorite with endless variations, from meat lovers’ versions to veggie-packed options.

Seasonal Adaptations

In summer, add grilled vegetables like zucchini or tomatoes. During winter, try hearty fillings such as sausage, mushrooms, and melted cheese for a cozy touch.

Success Stories

Home cooks often find this recipe a hit with both adults and kids. It’s a go-to for game nights, picnics, and lunchboxes because it’s easy to hold and even easier to love.

Freezer Meal Conversion

To freeze, bake the calzones halfway, let them cool, and wrap individually in foil. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes.

Pro Tips

  • Let the dough rest before rolling for easier shaping.
  • Use a fork or knife to make tiny vents on top to prevent bursting.
  • Brush with garlic butter after baking for an irresistible aroma.
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Chef’s Special Tips

For an authentic Italian touch, mix a little parmesan into your mozzarella. Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, and serve with homemade basil pesto for dipping.

Conclusion

Homemade calzones bring the warmth and flavor of Italian kitchens right to your table. They’re versatile, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Try this recipe today, experiment with your favorite fillings, and experience the joy of a golden, cheesy calzone fresh from the oven.

FAQs

Yes, absolutely. Store-bought pizza dough works perfectly and saves time. Just let it rest at room temperature for about 20 minutes before rolling it out to make it easier to handle.

A calzone is folded into a half-moon shape and usually sealed around the edges, while a stromboli is rolled like a log. Calzones often include ricotta cheese, whereas strombolis typically do not.

Yes. You can prepare and fill the calzones, then refrigerate them (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake them straight from the fridge — just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Definitely. Once baked, let them cool completely, then wrap individually in foil and freeze for up to two months. To reheat, bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until hot and crispy.

This usually happens if it’s overfilled or not sealed tightly. Make sure to leave a small border around the edges and press firmly with a fork or your fingers to create a tight seal.