Homemade Calzones

The Ultimate Guide to Homemade Calzones

Indulge in the flavors of Italy with our step-by-step guide to making Homemade Calzones. These delicious pockets of dough filled with savory ingredients are a favorite for lunch, dinner, or even as a snack. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and versatility. So, roll up your sleeves, dust off your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 3 teaspoons yeast
  • 1 cup warm water

For the Filling:

  • Pepperoni slices
  • Sliced mushrooms
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Pasta sauce (red)
  • Shredded cheese (mozzarella or your favorite variety)

Other:

  • Olive oil (for brushing)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Pour the activated yeast mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
  4. Knead Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  5. Let it Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Divide Dough: Once the dough has risen, divide it into equal portions, depending on how many calzones you want to make.
  3. Roll Out Dough: Roll out each portion of dough into a circle or oval shape on a floured surface.
  4. Add Fillings: Place a layer of pasta sauce on one half of each dough circle, leaving a border around the edges. Top with pepperoni slices, sliced mushrooms, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
  5. Fold Dough: Fold the other half of 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 tight seal.

Step 3: Bake the Calzones

  1. Brush with Olive Oil: Place the calzones on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with olive oil.
  2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
  3. Serve: Remove from the oven and let the calzones cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy hot, with additional pasta sauce for dipping if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Customize Fillings: Feel free to customize the fillings according to your taste preferences. Add cooked sausage, bell peppers, onions, or any other toppings you like.
  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough and filling in advance and assemble the calzones just before baking. Store the assembled calzones in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
  • Freeze for Later: Once baked and cooled, you can freeze the calzones in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until heated through.
  • Vegetarian Option: Skip the pepperoni and add more vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Q: Can I use store-bought pizza dough instead of making it from scratch? A: Yes, you can use store-bought pizza dough as a shortcut if you’re short on time. Just follow the instructions for rolling out and filling the dough as outlined in the recipe.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time for a party? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the calzones ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Alternatively, you can bake them ahead of time and reheat them in the oven before serving.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese? A: Yes, you can use any type of cheese you like in the filling. Mozzarella is traditional, but cheddar, provolone, or a blend of cheeses would also work well.

Q: How do I know when the dough has risen enough? A: The dough should double in size after about 1 hour of rising. You can test if it’s ready by gently pressing your finger into the dough—if the indentation remains, it’s ready to be shaped.

Keto and Low-Carb Version:

Keto-Friendly Variation:

  • Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour for a low-carb dough.
  • Use sugar-free marinara sauce and skip the sugar in the dough.
  • Fill the calzones with keto-friendly toppings such as cooked bacon, sausage, spinach, and cheese.

Low-Carb Variation:

  • Use a low-carb baking mix or coconut flour in place of all-purpose flour for the dough.
  • Opt for low-carb vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and broccoli in the filling.
  • Serve with a side salad instead of pasta sauce for a lower-carb option.

In conclusion, Homemade Calzones are a delicious and customizable meal option that the whole family will love. With a simple dough and endless filling possibilities, you can create your own culinary masterpiece right in your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a cozy night in, these savory pockets of goodness are sure to satisfy. So, roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a try—you’ll be glad you did!