Omg! Can You Actually Make Calzones With Pie Crust? The Secret’s Out!

The answer to this culinary conundrum is an emphatic yes! Calzone, a delectable Italian folded pizza, can be skillfully crafted using the versatile canvas of pie crust. This unexpected yet ingenious substitution opens up a world of possibilities for home cooks and culinary enthusiasts alike.

The Allure of Pie Crust

Pie crust, with its flaky and tender texture, provides an ideal foundation for calzones. Its ability to hold fillings securely and create a golden-brown crust makes it an excellent choice for this savory treat. Additionally, the accessibility and affordability of pie crust make it a convenient option for home cooks.

Crafting the Perfect Calzone

To create a mouthwatering calzone with pie crust, follow these steps:

1. Gather Your Ingredients

• 1 package (15 ounces) refrigerated pie crust
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• Your desired fillings (e.g., pepperoni, vegetables, meats)

2. Prepare the Pie Crust

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Unroll the pie crust and place it on a lightly floured surface.

3. Fill the Calzone

• Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce in the center of the pie crust, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
• Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
• Top with your desired fillings.
• Sprinkle the remaining half of the mozzarella cheese over the fillings.
• Finally, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella.

4. Fold the Calzone

• Bring the edges of the pie crust up over the filling, crimping them together to seal.
• Trim any excess dough.

5. Brush and Bake

• Brush the top of the calzone with olive oil.
• Transfer the calzone to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the filling is melted and bubbly.

Tips for Success

• Use a sharp knife to cut the pie crust, ensuring clean, defined edges.
• Don’t overfill the calzone, as this will make it difficult to seal.
• Allow the calzone to rest for a few minutes before slicing to prevent the filling from spilling out.
• Experiment with different fillings to create your own unique calzone creations.

Variations and Enhancements

• Calzone with Marinara Sauce: Swap out the pizza sauce for a flavorful marinara sauce for a classic Italian twist.
• Buffalo Chicken Calzone: Fill the calzone with shredded chicken tossed in buffalo sauce, blue cheese crumbles, and celery.
• Vegetable Calzone: Create a vegetarian delight by filling the calzone with sautéed vegetables such as onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
• Cheesy Calzone: Amp up the cheese factor by adding a layer of cream cheese or ricotta cheese to the filling.
• Deep-Fried Calzone: For a crispy and decadent treat, deep-fry the calzone until golden brown.

The Joy of Calzone

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious home cook, crafting calzone with pie crust is a rewarding and enjoyable experience. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences. So, embrace the culinary adventure and discover the delights of calzone made with the humble yet versatile pie crust.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Can I use a homemade pie crust for calzone?
A: Yes, a homemade pie crust can be used. Ensure it’s well-chilled before rolling it out.

Q: How do I prevent the calzone from getting soggy?
A: Avoid overfilling the calzone and use a well-drained filling. Additionally, bake the calzone until the crust is golden brown.

Q: Can I freeze calzone?
A: Yes, calzone can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.

Q: What is the ideal filling-to-crust ratio for a calzone?
A: Aim for a 60:40 filling-to-crust ratio, ensuring a balanced and flavorful calzone.

Q: How do I prevent the calzone from tearing during baking?
A: Be gentle when filling and folding the calzone. Ensure the edges are well-crimped and avoid stretching the dough.