Ah, calzones! Just saying the word makes my mouth water! There’s something so satisfying about creating these lovely, stuffed pockets of dough filled with cheesy goodness. It takes me back to my college days when my friends and I would host calzone-making nights—each of us would race to come up with the wildest fillings while simultaneously trying to not drop cheese all over the floor! Not an easy task, I tell you!
What I love most about making calzones is their flexibility. You can toss in whatever you have on hand, making them a perfect way to get the family involved. Plus, they’re perfect for those cozy movie nights at home. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to impress your loved ones!
What’s in Calzones?
Let’s take a closer look at the magical ingredients that make up these mouthwatering calzones:
All-purpose flour: The backbone of our dough! I usually stick with a reliable brand I trust, like King Arthur, to ensure the perfect texture.
Instant yeast: This little magic powder makes the dough rise without having to wait overly long. It’s my go-to for speedy baking!
Salt: Essential for flavor; don’t skip it! It brings out the best in every ingredient.
Olive oil: Adds a rich flavor and helps keep our dough nice and soft. I prefer extra virgin olive oil for its robust taste.
Warm water: This helps activate our yeast. Just make sure it’s not boiling—aim for about 110°F, like a cozy bath for the yeast!
Ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess! Use whole-milk ricotta for a richer taste.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: The ultimate melter! I often grab the pre-shredded kind for convenience, but freshly shredded melts even better.
Grated Parmesan cheese: For that nutty flavor to elevate our filling.
Cooked Italian sausage or pepperoni: An optional but delicious addition for those who enjoy a meaty calzone. Just make sure to chop them up so they fit nicely!
Marinara sauce: The perfect dipping companion for your calzones! I love a homemade version, but store-bought is just fine for ease.
Fresh parsley: A touch of color and freshness when serving. It’s all about that presentation!
Cornmeal: Dusting the baking sheet gives our calzones that lovely crunchy bottom.
Olive oil & black pepper: For brushing and seasoning—these finishes really tie the whole dish together!
Is Calzone Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about the health aspect of our beloved calzone. Like any dish, it’s all about moderation!
Flour: While all-purpose flour is a staple, you can swap it for whole wheat flour to add some fiber—it’ll give a nuttier flavor too.
Cheeses: Oh, cheese! It’s delicious but can be heavy on the calories. I try to moderate the amounts, but for a treat like this, it’s worth it!
Meats: Adding sausage or pepperoni packs protein, but also saturated fats, so be mindful if you’re watching your intake.
In short, calzones can fit into a balanced diet, especially if loaded with veggies or enjoyed as an occasional treat. It’s all about that balance, friends!
How to Make Calzones?
Alright, let’s get down to the fun part—making these irresistible calzones! Here’s how to do it:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, and salt. Stir in the olive oil and warm water until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 30-60 minutes or until doubled in size.
3. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.
4. While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and the optional cooked sausage or pepperoni. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle about 10 inches in diameter.
6. On one half of each dough circle, spoon a generous amount of the cheese filling, leaving about a one-inch border around the edge.
7. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, then crimp with a fork to ensure a good seal.
8. Transfer the calzones to a baking sheet dusted with cornmeal. Brush the tops with olive oil and cut a few slits to allow steam to escape.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping and garnish with fresh parsley.
Calzone Variations and Tips!
Let’s make these calzones even more fun!
– Try adding different veggies (think spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers) to your filling for a delicious twist.
– If you love a little heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes into the cheese mixture.
– Experiment with various cheeses! Goat cheese or feta can give a new flavor profile—yum!
– Want to make mini calzones for appetizers? Roll the dough into smaller circles and fill accordingly; perfect for parties!
I can just imagine you enjoying a cozy night in with these cheesy, warm, stuffed delights on your plate! I can’t wait for you to try these homemade calzones. They truly encapsulate comfort food at its best! So gather your loved ones, have fun in the kitchen, and don’t forget to share how they turn out! Happy cooking, friends!
