Can You Make Calzone In An Ooni? The Answer May Surprise You!

The answer is a resounding yes! Ooni ovens, renowned for their exceptional heat and versatility, are perfectly suited for crafting mouthwatering calzones. With their ability to reach blazing temperatures, these ovens create a crispy, golden-brown exterior while ensuring a tender, flavorful interior.

Ingredients for an Epic Calzone

For the Dough:

• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon (5g) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon (5g) sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons (7g) salt
• 1 cup (240ml) warm water

For the Filling:

• 1 cup (120g) ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup (60g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup (60g) Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup (120g) cooked and chopped pepperoni
• 1/4 cup (60g) cooked and chopped mushrooms
• 1/4 cup (60g) chopped onions
• 1/4 cup (60g) chopped bell peppers
• 1/4 cup (60ml) marinara sauce

Step-by-Step Calzone-Making in Your Ooni

1. Prepare the Dough:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
• Add the warm water and stir until a dough forms.
• Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

2. Assemble the Calzone:

• Preheat your Ooni oven to 500°F (260°C).
• Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal parts.
• Roll out each part into a 12-inch (30cm) circle.
• Spread half of the ricotta cheese over one circle, leaving a 1-inch (2.5cm) border around the edges.
• Top with the mozzarella, Parmesan, pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, and marinara sauce.
• Fold the other dough circle over the filling and seal the edges firmly.

3. Bake the Calzone:

• Place the calzone on a lightly oiled pizza stone or baking sheet.
• Bake in the Ooni oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Tips for Calzone Success

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Don’t overfill the calzone, or it will be difficult to seal.
• Brush the crust with olive oil before baking to achieve a golden-brown finish.
• Let the calzone cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Enhance Your Calzone Experience

1. Experiment with Fillings:

• Try different combinations of meats, cheeses, and vegetables to create unique and flavorful calzones.
• Add a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for extra sweetness or tanginess.

2. Pair with Dipping Sauces:

• Serve your calzone with marinara sauce, Alfredo sauce, or garlic aioli for dipping.
• Create a dipping sauce bar with a variety of options to cater to different tastes.

The Versatile Calzone

Calzones are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They can be enjoyed as a main course, snack, or appetizer. Here are some ideas:

• Quick and Easy Lunch: Fill a calzone with leftovers from last night’s dinner for a satisfying and portable lunch.
• Appetizer Delights: Cut calzones into bite-sized pieces for a perfect party appetizer.
• Dinner with a Twist: Serve calzones with a side salad for a wholesome and flavorful dinner.

Top Questions Asked

1. What type of flour is best for calzone dough?

• All-purpose flour works well for calzone dough, but you can also use bread flour or a combination of the two for a chewier crust.

2. Can I make calzones ahead of time?

• Yes, you can assemble calzones ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. Bring them to room temperature before baking.

3. How do I prevent the calzone from getting soggy?

• Make sure to preheat your Ooni oven to a high temperature and bake the calzone on a pizza stone or baking sheet to prevent moisture from building up.

4. Can I use a different filling for my calzone?

• Yes, feel free to experiment with different fillings to create your own unique calzone creations.

5. What is the best way to reheat a calzone?

• Reheat calzones in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.