Stuffed Calzone Pizza

Stuffed Calzone Pizza

Stuffed Calzone Pizza is a delicious twist on traditional pizza. It combines all your favorite pizza toppings inside a golden, fluffy crust. This makes it fun to make and eat, especially for gatherings or family dinners. Each bite is packed with flavor, making it a satisfying meal for everyone.

Why Make This Recipe

You should make Stuffed Calzone Pizza because it is easy to customize. You can choose any fillings you love—meats, veggies, or cheeses. Plus, it’s a great option for using up leftover ingredients in your fridge. It also makes for a wonderful party food, as it is easy to slice and share. Whether you are cooking for yourself or a crowd, this recipe is sure to please.

How to Make Stuffed Calzone Pizza

Ingredients:

• Garlic Knot Crust
• Ricotta cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Italian sausage
• Pepperoni
• Bell peppers
• Onions
• Olive oil
• Italian herbs (oregano, basil)
• Marinara sauce (for serving)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare the Garlic Knot Crust according to your preferred recipe or use pre-made dough.
3. Roll out the crust and shape it into a large circle.
4. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, cooked Italian sausage, pepperoni, diced bell peppers, and onions.
5. Spoon the filling onto one half of the dough, leaving a border.
6. Fold the other half over the filling and seal the edges by crimping with a fork.
7. Brush the top with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian herbs.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Let cool slightly before slicing. Serve with marinara sauce on the side.

How to Serve Stuffed Calzone Pizza

Serve Stuffed Calzone Pizza warm, cut into slices. You can place it on a large platter for a fun sharing experience. Pair it with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, and perhaps a fresh salad to balance the meal. Everyone will enjoy grabbing a slice!

How to Store Stuffed Calzone Pizza

To store leftovers, let the calzone cool completely. Place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the calzone. Just wrap it well in aluminum foil or freezer-safe bags, and it will last for about 2 months.

Tips to Make Stuffed Calzone Pizza

• Make sure your filling is not too wet, or it will make the crust soggy.
• Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or provolone for unique flavors.
• If you like a crunchier crust, bake the calzone on a pizza stone or a baking sheet preheated in the oven.
• Use a sharp knife to make a few small slits on top of the calzone to allow steam to escape while baking.

Variation

You can customize the filling based on what you have at home. Try adding spinach, mushrooms, olives, or even different meats like ham or chicken. For a vegetarian option, use only vegetables and cheese.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought dough?
   Yes, using store-bought dough is a great time-saver and works perfectly for this recipe.

2. How do I know when the calzone is done?
   The calzone is done when it turns golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped lightly.

3. Can I make these in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the filled calzones, cover them, and refrigerate them. Just bake them when you are ready!

4. What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
   You can replace ricotta with cream cheese or another soft cheese for a different taste and texture.

5. Is it possible to make a calzone with gluten-free dough?
   Absolutely! Use gluten-free pizza dough, and the recipe will work just as well.