Easy Cheese Calzone Recipe with Grocery List

Introduction to Cheese Calzone

Are you craving a simple yet flavorful Italian meal that's perfect for family dinner or a cozy night in? Look no further than the cheese calzone! A classic comfort food, a cheese calzone combines the best of pizza with the convenience of a folded pocket, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced cooks. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through an easy cheese calzone recipe complete with a grocery list to ensure you have all the ingredients you need at hand.

Grocery List for Cheese Calzone

Before we dive into the recipe, let's make sure you have all the ingredients:

• Pizza Dough: Store-bought or homemade. If you're making it, here are the ingredients:
  • 2 cups of flour
  • 1 cup of lukewarm water
  • 1 tablespoon of active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• Cheese Mix:
  • 1 cup of ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup of shredded mozzarella
  • ½ cup of Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 beaten egg
• Fillings:
  • Chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, spinach
  • Pre-cooked meats like sausage, bacon, or ham (optional)
• Extras:
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
  • Marinara sauce for dipping

Preparing the Cheese Calzone

Step 1: Making the Dough (Optional)

If you're using store-bought dough, you can skip this step. For homemade dough:

1. Combine yeast, water, and sugar in a bowl, let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until it forms a dough.
3. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until smooth.
4. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Preparing the Filling

• Mix ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan in a bowl.
• Add the beaten egg for a creamier texture.
• Stir in any pre-cooked meats or vegetables at this stage.

Step 3: Assembling the Calzone

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Roll out the dough into a large circle on a floured surface.
3. Place the cheese mixture on one half of the dough, leaving space around the edges.
4. Fold the other half over the filling and crimp the edges to seal.
5. Make a few slits on top to let steam escape.
6. Brush with olive oil for a golden crust.

Step 4: Baking

• Bake the calzone for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
• Let it cool slightly before serving to allow the cheese to set.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
• Top with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor.
• Add a fresh salad on the side to round out the meal.

📌 Note: If you find your calzone is leaking, ensure the edges are sealed tightly before baking.

📌 Note: Allow the calzone to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking; this helps prevent the filling from being too runny when cut.

In wrapping up, this cheese calzone recipe not only offers a delicious, cheesy delight but also provides a fun cooking experience. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or part of a more elaborate Italian feast, the cheese calzone is versatile and always a hit. Remember to pair it with your favorite beverage and enjoy the fruits of your labor in the company of loved ones.

Can I freeze Cheese Calzone?

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Yes, you can freeze Cheese Calzone. Prepare and assemble the calzones as usual but do not bake them. Freeze them individually on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. To bake from frozen, increase the baking time by about 10 minutes.

What can I substitute for Ricotta cheese?

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If you don’t have Ricotta or can’t find it, you can substitute with cottage cheese or cream cheese, although the texture and taste might slightly differ.

How do I make sure my calzone isn’t soggy?

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To avoid a soggy calzone, ensure your fillings are not too wet. Pre-cook vegetables to remove excess moisture, and always pat dry ingredients like spinach or cooked sausage before adding them to the cheese mixture.