Calzones are the perfect comfort food, encapsulating warm, cheesy goodness in a delightful pocket of dough. The pizzeria-style ham and cheese calzone is a classic that takes inspiration from traditional Italian cuisine, combining savory ham and melty cheese to create a dish that is both satisfying and indulgent. This recipe not only helps you recreate the authentic taste of Italian pizzerias at home, but it also invites you to explore the joy of making your own calzone dough from scratch. Imagine biting into a perfectly baked calzone, the aroma of baked dough mingling with the saltiness of ham and the creaminess of cheese filling the air. This dish is perfect for lunches, family dinners, or casual get-togethers, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Additionally, calzones can be customized with different ingredients, allowing for endless creativity and personalization in your cooking. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, this recipe offers not just a meal, but an experience of Italian culinary culture.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F)

For the Filling

• 1 ½ cups sliced ham (preferably deli-style)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup ricotta cheese (optional for added creaminess)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
• 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
• Marinara sauce (for dipping, optional)

When selecting your ingredients, opt for high-quality cheese and fresh ham to enhance the flavor. Freshly grated mozzarella cheese will melt better than pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents, leading to a less creamy texture. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, consider using low-sodium ham or a blend of cheeses. You might also experiment with different types of cheeses, such as provolone or fontina, to give your pizzeria-style ham and cheese calzone a unique twist. Additionally, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an aromatic boost. You can learn more about this topic. Always remember that the quality of your ingredients greatly impacts the final taste of your calzone, so choose wisely and enjoy the process!

Steps / Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until frothy. This step is crucial; the froth indicates that the yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise. A good tip is to place your bowl in a warm spot in the kitchen, as this promotes yeast activity.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Create a well in the center, then add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough begins to form. You can use a wooden spoon or your hands for this step, but ensure you incorporate all the flour from the sides of the bowl. Remember to scrape down the sides for a uniform mixture.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed. Proper kneading is important, as it develops the gluten structure, leading to a chewy and delicious calzone. You should aim for a dough that springs back when pressed lightly with your finger.
4. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. This allows the yeast to ferment and produce carbon dioxide, which makes the dough rise. Keep an eye on it, as the ideal rising time can vary with kitchen temperature.
5. Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, mix the sliced ham, mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese (if using), oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Ensure everything is well combined. Taste the filling and adjust seasoning as needed; you want a flavorful filling that complements the dough. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat in your calzone.
6. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). A hot oven is essential for achieving a crispy crust. Place a baking sheet or pizza stone in the oven during preheating to help maintain high heat.
7. Shape the Calzones: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle about 8 inches in diameter. Place a generous portion of the filling on one half, leaving a border around the edge to ensure proper sealing. This border should be about 1 inch wide to avoid any overflow during baking.
8. Seal the Calzones: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges, ensuring they are tightly sealed to prevent leakage. This not only secures the filling but also adds a decorative touch to your calzones. You might also consider brushing a bit of water on the edges before sealing for better adhesion.
9. Prepare for Baking: Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with olive oil and, if desired, beat the egg and brush it over the calzones for a golden finish. This step gives the calzones a beautiful, shiny surface when baked. Consider sprinkling a bit of coarse sea salt or dried herbs on top for extra flavor.
10. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the calzones are golden brown and the dough is cooked through. The crust should be firm to the touch and have a delightful aroma wafting from the oven. If you’re unsure if they’re done, you can check the internal temperature; it should read around 190°F (88°C).
11. Cool and Serve: Allow the calzones to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping, enhancing the flavors and adding a zesty contrast to the cheesy filling. This cooling period also allows the cheese to settle slightly, making each bite more enjoyable.

Tips & Tricks

For the best results, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before beginning. Here are some additional tips to enhance your calzone-making experience: Check out our related guide for more tips. These insights can elevate your cooking skills and help you create calzones that rival those from a pizzeria. Remember, practice makes perfect!

• Storage: If you have leftover calzones, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture; a quick blast in the microwave may make them soggy. You can also freeze uncooked calzones, wrapping them individually in plastic wrap before sealing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Make-Ahead Options: You can prepare the calzone dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling. You can also prepare the filling ahead of time and store it separately. This can save you time on busy weeknights.
• Avoid Overfilling: Be careful not to overfill the calzones, as this can cause them to burst during baking. A generous amount is good, but leave some space! This also ensures that the calzones bake evenly. Consider using a measuring cup to portion out the filling for consistency.
• Experiment with Dipping Sauces: Marinara is a classic choice, but feel free to try garlic butter, pesto, or even ranch dressing for a fun twist. You could even whip up a homemade dipping sauce using fresh herbs and spices to complement your calzones. A sprinkle of Parmesan or fresh basil on top can elevate the dish further.

With these tips, your pizzeria-style ham and cheese calzones will come out perfectly every time, delighting family and friends alike with their delicious flavor and inviting aroma! Don’t hesitate to share your creations and variations with friends, inspiring them to join in on the fun of making these delightful pockets of goodness!

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Pizzeria-Style Ham and Cheese Calzone

Recipe by Chef

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Dinner Cuisine: American Difficulty: Easy

🍽️

Servings

− 4 +

⏱️

Prep Time

1 hr 20 min

🍳

Cook Time

20 min

🔥

Calories

400 kcal

Calzones are the perfect comfort food, encapsulating warm, cheesy goodness in a delightful pocket of dough. The pizzeria-style ham and cheese calzone is a classic that takes inspiration from traditional Italian cuisine, combining savory ham and melty cheese to create a dish that is both satisfying and indulgent.

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Ingredients

US Metric

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F)
• 1 ½ cups sliced ham (preferably deli-style)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup ricotta cheese (optional for added creaminess)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
• 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
• Marinara sauce (for dipping, optional)

Directions

1.

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until frothy.

2.

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Create a well in the center, then add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough begins to form.

3.

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.

4.

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

5.

While the dough is rising, mix the sliced ham, mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese (if using), oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

6.

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).

7.

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle about 8 inches in diameter. Place a generous portion of the filling on one half, leaving a border around the edge.

8.

Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges.

9.

Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with olive oil and, if desired, beat the egg and brush it over the calzones.

10.

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the calzones are golden brown and the dough is cooked through.

11.

Allow the calzones to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

Calories 400 kcal