Calzone Recipe

Pizza dough: The base of the calzone, providing the structure and texture.

Mozzarella cheese: Adds a creamy, melty texture to the filling.

Ham: Provides a savory, meaty flavor.

Mushrooms: Adds an earthy taste and texture.

Tomato sauce: The tangy, flavorful base for the filling.

Oregano: A dried herb that adds a classic Italian flavor.

Basil: Another dried herb that complements the oregano.

Egg: Used for the egg wash to give the calzone a golden brown finish.

When sealing the edges of the calzone, use a fork to crimp the dough. This not only ensures a tight seal to prevent the filling from leaking out but also adds a decorative touch to your calzone.

• pizza dough - Substitute with whole wheat dough: Provides a healthier alternative with more fiber.

• pizza dough - Substitute with gluten-free dough: Suitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

• shredded mozzarella cheese - Substitute with shredded cheddar cheese: Offers a different flavor profile and melts well.

• shredded mozzarella cheese - Substitute with vegan cheese: Ideal for a dairy-free or vegan option.

• diced ham - Substitute with diced turkey: Provides a leaner meat option with less fat.

• diced ham - Substitute with diced tofu: Suitable for vegetarians and adds a different texture.

• sliced mushrooms - Substitute with sliced bell peppers: Adds a sweet and crunchy texture.

• sliced mushrooms - Substitute with sliced zucchini: Offers a mild flavor and similar texture.

• tomato sauce - Substitute with pesto sauce: Provides a fresh, herbaceous flavor.

• tomato sauce - Substitute with alfredo sauce: Adds a creamy and rich texture.

• dried oregano - Substitute with dried thyme: Offers a slightly different but complementary herbal flavor.

• dried oregano - Substitute with dried marjoram: Provides a milder, sweeter flavor.

• dried basil - Substitute with dried parsley: Adds a fresh, slightly peppery flavor.

• dried basil - Substitute with dried tarragon: Offers a unique, slightly licorice-like flavor.

• egg - Substitute with milk: Can be used for the egg wash to provide a similar browning effect.

• egg - Substitute with olive oil: Provides a vegan alternative for the egg wash and adds a slight flavor.

• Allow the calzones to cool completely at room temperature before storing or freezing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dough soggy.

• For short-term storage, place the calzones in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• To freeze, wrap each calzone individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This ensures they don't stick together and makes it easy to grab one at a time.

• Place the wrapped calzones in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the calzones in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture of the dough and filling.

• Reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method keeps the crust crispy and the filling warm.

• For a quicker option, you can microwave the calzones on medium power for 2-3 minutes, but be aware that the crust may become softer.

• If you prefer a crispy crust, after microwaving, place the calzones in a hot skillet for a couple of minutes on each side. This will help regain some of the original texture.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the leftover calzone on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the crust from becoming too hard. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until the mozzarella cheese inside is melted and the calzone is heated through.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 160°C (320°F). Place the calzone in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd it. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking halfway to ensure it’s warming evenly. This method will give you a crispy exterior while keeping the inside gooey and delicious.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Place the calzone in the skillet and cover it with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes on each side, flipping halfway through. This method helps maintain a crispy crust while ensuring the ham and mushrooms inside are thoroughly warmed.

• Microwave Method: Place the calzone on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking to see if it’s heated through. Be cautious with this method as it can make the crust a bit chewy.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the calzone on the rack or a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese is melted and the calzone is hot throughout. This method is great for maintaining a crispy texture.

• Oven: Used to bake the calzones at the required temperature of 220°C (430°F)

• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the pizza dough into even circles

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface to place the calzones on for baking

• Parchment paper: Prevents the calzones from sticking to the baking sheet

• Pastry brush: Used to apply the beaten egg wash on top of the calzones for a golden finish

• Knife: Necessary for dicing the ham and slicing the mushrooms

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting the ham and mushrooms

• Mixing bowl: Useful for mixing the shredded mozzarella, ham, and mushrooms together if desired

• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurement of the tomato sauce

• Teaspoon: Used to measure the dried oregano and basil

• Spoon: Helps in spreading the tomato sauce evenly on the dough

• Fork: Can be used to crimp and seal the edges of the calzones

• Cooling rack: Allows the calzones to cool evenly after baking

Use store-bought dough: Save time by using store-bought pizza dough instead of making it from scratch.

Pre-cut ingredients: Buy pre-shredded mozzarella, diced ham, and sliced mushrooms to reduce prep time.

Batch preparation: Prepare multiple calzones at once and freeze them for quick meals later.

Efficient assembly: Set up an assembly line with all ingredients ready to streamline the process.

Quick egg wash: Use a pastry brush for a fast and even application of the egg wash.

Preheat the oven: Ensure the oven is preheated to the correct temperature before starting.