Classic Calzones

When it comes to comforting and satisfying meals, few dishes can hold a candle to the classic calzone. This Italian delight, essentially a folded pizza, is packed with flavor and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re craving a cheesy blend of ricotta and mozzarella or a hearty filling with your favorite toppings, calzones are the perfect solution for any meal. Today, we’ll dive into making your own classic calzones from scratch, guiding you through each step of the process for a delicious experience that’s well worth your time.

Why Classic Calzones is Worth Your Time

There’s something special about making calzones at home. The warm, doughy exterior gives way to a melty, savory filling that warms your heart. Crafting calzones allows you to experiment with flavors, ensuring that every bite is just how you like it. Plus, making your dough from scratch is a rewarding process that elevates the dish to another level. The aroma of fresh bread baking in the oven is simply irresistible, and the satisfaction of pulling out a perfectly golden calzone is unmatched. Not to mention, calzones are perfect for meal prep, parties, or a cozy family dinner.

The Ingredient Lineup

To create the perfect classic calzones, gather the following ingredients:

• 4 cups (500g) bread flour – This flour gives the calzone a chewy and satisfying texture.
• 2 teaspoons (2.25 teaspoons) instant yeast – For that light and airy dough.
• 1 teaspoon (1.5 teaspoons) salt – Enhances the flavor of the dough.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – Adds richness and moisture.
• 1 cup (375ml) + 1 tablespoon warm water (about 105 degrees F) – Activates the yeast for dough that rises perfectly.
• 15 ounces (425.24g) container ricotta cheese – Creamy filling that pairs beautifully with other cheeses.
• 16 ounces (453.59g) mozzarella cheese, shredded, divided – Classic cheese choice for its meltiness.
• 16 ounces (453.59g) provolone cheese, shredded, divided – Adds a sharp flavor that complements the mozzarella.
• Toppings of your choice – Customize with vegetables, meats, or anything else that strikes your fancy.
• Olive oil, for brushing – Gives the calzones a beautiful golden finish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a depth of flavor to the filling.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the garlic and enhancing the filling.
• 28 ounces (793.79g) can crushed tomatoes – A delightful sauce to serve alongside your calzones.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning.

Setup & Equipment

Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have the following equipment ready:

• Large mixing bowl – For combining the dough ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or dough scraper – Useful for mixing and kneading.
• Rolling pin – To roll out the dough evenly.
• Baking sheet – For placing your calzones in the oven.
• Parchment paper – To prevent sticking on the baking sheet.
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter – For cutting the calzones before baking.
• Oven – Preheat to ensure the perfect baking environment.

Classic Calzones: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating classic calzones is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Let’s walk through the steps to make your own calzones at home.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, instant yeast, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the olive oil and warm water. Mix with a wooden spoon until the dough begins to come together.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed. Once kneaded, place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

While the dough is rising, prepare your filling. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, half of the mozzarella, half of the provolone, and any additional toppings you desire. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and set aside.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 475 degrees F (245 degrees C). This high temperature will help achieve a beautifully crispy exterior.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into 4 equal portions. On a floured surface, roll each portion into a circle about 8-10 inches in diameter.

Step 6: Fill the Calzones

Spoon a generous amount of the filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving about an inch of edge. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and provolone on top of the filling. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and pinch the edges to seal tightly. You can also crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch.

Step 7: Brush with Olive Oil

Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with olive oil to help them brown beautifully in the oven.

Step 8: Bake the Calzones

Bake the calzones in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.

Step 9: Prepare the Sauce

While the calzones are baking, heat the crushed tomatoes in a saucepan over medium heat. Season with salt and pepper, letting it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Once the calzones are fully baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with the crushed tomato sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your homemade classic calzones with family and friends!

No-Store Runs Needed

One of the best parts about making classic calzones is that you can use ingredients you already have on hand. Consider the following:

• Use leftover meats from previous meals.
• Substitute different cheeses based on what’s in your fridge.
• Add any vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, for nutrition and color.
• Experiment with herbs and spices to create unique flavor profiles.

Insider Tips

• Let your dough rise in a warm place, such as an oven with just the light on.
• Use a pizza stone if you have one for an even crispier crust.
• Don’t overfill your calzones to prevent them from bursting during baking.
• Feel free to mix and match your favorite fillings for endless variations.

Make-Ahead & Storage

Classic calzones can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for busy days:

To make ahead, prepare the calzones and place them on a baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove the wrap and allow them to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking. You can also freeze unbaked calzones by wrapping them tightly in foil. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reader Q&A

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but the texture may be slightly different. Bread flour provides more gluten, giving a chewier texture.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

If you don’t have ricotta cheese, mascarpone or cottage cheese can be used as alternatives, each offering a unique flavor and texture.

How do I know when the calzones are fully baked?

The calzones should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped. Additionally, the filling should be hot and bubbly.

Can I make the dough in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise. Once it’s risen, you can punch it down and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping your calzones.

You Might Also Like

• Homemade Pizza Dough
• Stuffed Peppers with Rice and Cheese
• Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
• Classic Marinara Sauce

Next Steps

Now that you have the recipe for classic calzones, it’s time to grab your apron and get cooking! Experiment with different fillings and enjoy the process of creating this delightful dish. The result will not only satisfy your cravings but also impress your family and friends. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some delicious classic calzones together!

Classic Calzones

These Classic Calzones are a delicious and customizable Italian treat! Folded pizza goodness packed with your favorite fillings!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Dough:

• 4 cups bread flour This flour gives the calzone a chewy and satisfying texture.
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast For that light and airy dough.
• 1 teaspoon salt Enhances the flavor of the dough.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil Adds richness and moisture.
• 1 cup warm water (about 105 degrees F)

For the Filling:

• 15 ounces ricotta cheese Creamy filling that pairs beautifully with other cheeses.
• 16 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded Classic cheese choice for its meltiness.
• 16 ounces provolone cheese, shredded Adds a sharp flavor that complements the mozzarella.
• to taste Toppings of your choice Customize with vegetables, meats, or anything else that strikes your fancy.
• Olive oil for brushing
• 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds a depth of flavor to the filling.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing the garlic and enhancing the filling.
• 28 ounces can crushed tomatoes A delightful sauce to serve alongside your calzones.
• to taste Salt and pepper Essential for seasoning.

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or dough scraper
• Rolling Pin
• Baking Sheet
• Parchment Paper
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter
• Oven

Method

 

Classic Calzones: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Step 1: Prepare the Dough

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, instant yeast, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the olive oil and warm water. Mix with a wooden spoon until the dough begins to come together.
2. Step 2: Knead the Dough

   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed. Once kneaded, place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
3. Step 3: Prepare the Filling

   While the dough is rising, prepare your filling. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, half of the mozzarella, half of the provolone, and any additional toppings you desire. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and set aside.
4. Step 4: Preheat the Oven

   Preheat your oven to 475 degrees F (245 degrees C). This high temperature will help achieve a beautifully crispy exterior.
5. Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

   Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into 4 equal portions. On a floured surface, roll each portion into a circle about 8-10 inches in diameter.
6. Step 6: Fill the Calzones

   Spoon a generous amount of the filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving about an inch of edge. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and provolone on top of the filling. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and pinch the edges to seal tightly. You can also crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch.
7. Step 7: Brush with Olive Oil

   Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with olive oil to help them brown beautifully in the oven.
8. Step 8: Bake the Calzones

   Bake the calzones in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.
9. Step 9: Prepare the Sauce

   While the calzones are baking, heat the crushed tomatoes in a saucepan over medium heat. Season with salt and pepper, letting it simmer for about 10 minutes.
10. Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

    Once the calzones are fully baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with the crushed tomato sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your homemade classic calzones with family and friends!

Notes

• Let your dough rise in a warm place, such as an oven with just the light on.
• Use a pizza stone if you have one for an even crispier crust.
• Don’t overfill your calzones to prevent them from bursting during baking.
• Feel free to mix and match your favorite fillings for endless variations.