Step-by-step instructions
Ready to dive into the cooking process? Here’s how you prepare these tasty treats:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface.
- Cut the dough into four equal rectangles.
- Spoon pizza sauce onto one half of each rectangle, leaving the edges clear.
- Add a generous amount of mozzarella cheese and your chosen toppings.
- Carefully fold the dough over to form a pocket and pinch the edges tightly to seal.
- Lay the calzones on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic powder, and parsley. Brush this mixture over the tops of the calzones.
- Bake them for 20–25 minutes until they’re golden brown and bubbly.
- Allow to cool for about 5 minutes before serving with extra pizza sauce for dipping.
Best ways to enjoy it
Pizza calzones are best served fresh out of the oven, bursting with flavor. For a delightful presentation, cut them in half to showcase the gooey cheese and vibrant toppings inside. Pair them with a light salad for a complete meal, or serve them alongside marinara sauce for an extra dipping option! You can also add a side of garlic bread to elevate the experience.
How to store
If you have leftovers (which is rare because they are so tasty!), here’s how to store them properly. Allow the calzones to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. If you want to keep them longer, calzones freeze well! Just wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are some extra tips to help you nail this recipe:
- Make sure to seal the edges well to prevent any filling from leaking out during baking.
- Experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or provolone, for varied flavors.
- If you want a crispy bottom, consider using a pizza stone in your oven.
- For a fun twist, add some heat with sliced jalapeños or switch to a white sauce instead of marinara.
Creative twists
While this recipe is fantastic as is, don’t hesitate to get creative! Swap out the pepperoni for veggies to make a delicious vegetarian calzone, or try a dessert version filled with Nutella and banana for a sweet treat. You can also experiment with different crusts, such as whole wheat or gluten-free options—truly, the possibilities are endless!
Common questions
How long does it take to make pizza calzones?
The entire process takes about 30 minutes, from prep to bake.
Can I use homemade pizza dough?
Absolutely! If you prefer making your own dough, feel free to use your favorite recipe.
How do I reheat leftover calzones?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the oven will help maintain the crispiness of the dough.
Are there substitutions for the ingredients?
Indeed! You can substitute mozzarella with any cheese of your choice, use alternative sauces, or fill them with any toppings you adore, including veggies, meats, or even fruits for a dessert calzone!
Get ready to enjoy your pizza calzones! No matter the occasion, they are sure to hit the spot. Happy cooking!
