Meatball Calzone Recipe

By Jon Andrew

About This Recipe

This Calzone recipe is a classic Italian dish made from pizza dough. A Calzone is a stuffed pizza, a bit like a pasty only made from pizza dough and loaded with all the toppings you can put on a pizza, such as tomato, cheese and Italian meats. ...

History of the Calzone
The calzone, a delicious Italian dish that resembles a folded pizza, has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century in Naples. Originally, it was a convenient meal for workers, designed to be portable and easy to eat on the go.

The name "calzone" translates to "trouser" in Italian, which is a nod to its shape, resembling a pant leg. Traditionally, calzones are filled with a variety of ingredients, including cheese, meats, and vegetables, all encased in a golden, baked crust. Over the years, this dish has evolved, with different regions of Italy adding their own unique twists, such as the use of local cheeses or specific types of meats.

As Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the calzone gained popularity, particularly in cities with large Italian communities.

Today, it is enjoyed worldwide, often served with marinara sauce for dipping, and continues to be a beloved comfort food that showcases the versatility and creativity of Italian cuisine.

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Serves: Two

Difficult

Cook in: 20 min

Prep: 1hr 30

What equipment do you need ?

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Rolling Pin

Large Frying Pan

Kitchen Scales

Mixing Bowl

What is a Calzone?

A calzone is a traditional Italian dish that resembles a folded pizza, characterized by its unique preparation and presentation.

Typically made from a yeast-based dough, the calzone is rolled out into a circular shape and filled with a variety of ingredients, which often include ricotta cheese, mozzarella, meats such as ham or salami, and an assortment of vegetables.

Once filled, the dough is carefully folded over to create a half-moon shape and sealed at the edges to prevent the filling from escaping during cooking.

The calzone is then baked until the crust achieves a golden-brown colour, resulting in a crispy exterior that encases a warm, flavourful filling. ...

Variations of a Calzone
Traditional calzones typically feature a folded pizza dough filled with ingredients such as cheese, meats, and vegetables, then baked to perfection.

However, variations abound, with some incorporating different types of cheeses, sauces, or even international flavours, such as Mediterranean or Mexican-inspired fillings.

Additionally, the dough itself can be modified, using whole wheat or gluten-free options to cater to diverse dietary preferences.

These adaptations not only enhance the flavour profile but also allow for greater creativity in presentation and taste.

How to make a Calzone

Cuisine:Italian

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Ingredients Nutrition Cost

For The Dough
325 g Plain Flour
7 g Dried yeast
15 ml olive Oil
25 ml (warm milk)
165 ml (warm water)
1 teaspoon salt

For The Ragu
1 Brown Onion
1 tbs of Soft Brown Sugar (15g)
30 g Salted Butter
15 g of plain flour
1 tsp of lazy garlic
1 tin of chopped tomatoes
100 ml Red Wine
3 tbs (45 g) Tomato Paste
2 beef stock cubes
1/4 tsp Black Pepper

Filling
6 Meatballs (Cooked and sliced in half)
Chopped Italian Meats
Grated Mozzarella
Grated Cheese

Egg freeNut free

Nutrition:
This is based on 1 Calzone

Calories: 650
Protein: 24g
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 6.5g
Sugar: 7g

High caloriesHig Carbs.High protein

Cost to make:
*Prices may vary.

Cooking Instructions

Meatball Calzone

Making The Dough

mixing bowl To make the dough you need to sift the flour and salt into a glass bowl, then add the dry yeast. Mix this together with a fork befor adding in the warm Milk & Water.

Knead The Dough

ball of dough Mix in the fluids until it forms a sticky dough paste, the tip this out onto a floured surface. Knead the dough with your hands for 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elasticated.

Prove the Dough

dough proving in a bowl When the dough is fully kneaded, put it back into the bowl, cover with a cloth and allow to prove in a warm place for about an hour.

Make the Ragu

ragu sauce

Crumble up the stock cubes into a bowl and add 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
Dice up your onion and add the garlic to them, mix it together.
Melt the butter in a pan then fry off the onions & Garlic until soft, about 10 minutes.
Add the sugar to the onions and allow to cook for a further 5 minutes
Empty the chopped tomatoes, Red wine and Tomato paste into a food processor and process for a few seconds so that the tomatoes are well chopped up.
Add the crumbled up stock cubes and Pepper into the cooked Onions and mix it in well.
When the Onion mixture has been cooking for a few extra minutes add the flour and mix in to form a loose roux.
Add the processed chopped tomato sauce and mix up with a wooden spoon.
Leave this to cook for around 15 minutes on a low heat.
Cover and set aside.

Cook the Meatballs

meatballs cooking Heat up some Olive Oil in a frying pan, then cook the meatballs for 12 to 15 minutes, turning them often to ensure they are fully cooked all over. When the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the pan, cut them in half and continue cooking them in the Ragu sauce, keep this sauce warm. .

Slice the Meats

sliced meats and cheese Using a large sharp knife, slice the Italian cooked meats into small slices. I have used Salami and Chorizo. Grate the cheese and set this aside, I have used Cheddar and Mozzarella for this recipe.

Devide the Dough

dough balls When the dough has been proving for an hour, knock it back and devide it into two pieces/ Set these aside and let them prove for a further 30 minutes.

Roll the Dough

rolled dough When the dough is proven, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to anout 1/2 inch depth, then you can fill it with the meatballs and sauce.

Fill the Calzone

dough with ragu sauce When you have rolled the dough into a round, start by filling half the dough with the Ragu and meatballs. Then add the other meats and finally top it off with the cheese. Use as much cheese as you like, I like a lot. Leave enough space around the edge of the dough so that you can fold it in half and crimp the edges with out any filling coming out.

To Cook The Calzone

uncooked calzone When you have filled the Calzone you should fold it in half like a pasty then crimp the edges together with your fingers. Cut two air slots in the top to allow the steam to escape. Brush the top of the Calzone with some Extra Virgin Olive Oil then place it on some silicon paper.

Cook the Calzone in a pre heated oven @ 180c for 20-25 min until the dough is lightly browned and cooked.

You can cover the top with some aluminium foil if you want to stop the top getting too crispy, but I would remove this for the final 5 minutes of cooking.

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Chefs Tips for making a Calzone

How do I store leftover calzones?

To properly store leftover calzones, first allow them to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, wrap each calzone tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent moisture loss and preserve freshness and refrigerate them for upto 4 days

What sauces can I serve with a calzone?

When serving a calzone, a variety of sauces can enhance its flavour. Traditional options include marinara or pizza sauce, which complement the savory fillings. Additionally, garlic butter or pesto can provide a unique twist, adding richness and depth.

Can I make calzones ahead of time?

Yes, calzones can be prepared in advance. You can assemble them and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you are ready to bake.

What is the best way to reheat a calzone?

To effectively reheat a calzone, the best method is to use an oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the calzone on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat it for about 10 to 15 minutes.

What are some side dishes to serve with calzones?

Calzones can be complemented by a variety of side dishes that enhance the overall dining experience. A fresh garden salad, featuring crisp greens and a light vinaigrette, provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the calzone. For those seeking a heartier option, garlic bread or bruschetta can offer a satisfying accompaniment.

Is calzone a healthy meal option?

Calzone can be considered a healthy meal option, depending on its ingredients and preparation method. Typically, a calzone is made with dough filled with various ingredients such as vegetables, cheese, and meats.

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