Name: Quick Calzone with Puff Pastry: Delicious and Easy to Prepare!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-483894H9M19S
Total time: PT-483894H9M19S
Cuisine: American-Italian
Ingredients: 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed; 1/2 cup tomato sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup pepperoni slices; 1/2 cup mushrooms, chopped; 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced; 1/4 cup black olives, sliced; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp Italian seasoning

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a fast, delicious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this quick calzone with puff pastry is the perfect solution. Unlike traditional calzones that require homemade dough and lengthy preparation, this version uses flaky, buttery puff pastry for a crisp, golden crust. With minimal ingredients and a short baking time, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home with ease. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, a casual dinner, or a party appetizer, this calzone is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Puff pastry sheets
Tomato sauce
Mozzarella cheese
Parmesan cheese
Pepperoni slices
Mushrooms
Bell peppers
Olives
Fresh basil
Olive oil
Egg (for egg wash)
Salt
Black pepper
Garlic powder
Italian seasoning

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the filling by mixing tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, and pepperoni in a bowl. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into equal squares or rectangles, depending on your preferred calzone size.
Place a portion of the filling onto one side of each pastry piece, leaving space around the edges.
Fold the pastry over the filling to create a half-moon or rectangular shape, pressing the edges firmly with a fork to seal.
Brush with egg wash for a golden, crispy finish.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
Cool for a few minutes before serving, garnished with fresh basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan.

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Skip the pepperoni and add more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes.
Meat Lovers: Add cooked sausage, ham, or shredded chicken for a heartier filling.
Cheesy Delight: Mix different cheeses like cheddar, ricotta, or provolone for extra creaminess.
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Servings: 4-6 calzones

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze unbaked calzones on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating: Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soggy.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pizza dough instead of puff pastry?

Yes! While puff pastry creates a flaky texture, pizza dough will give you a more traditional calzone experience.

Can I make these calzones in advance?

Yes, you can assemble them ahead of time and refrigerate for a few hours before baking.

How do I prevent the calzones from bursting open?

Make sure not to overfill them, and seal the edges well with a fork. Brushing the edges with a bit of egg wash before sealing can also help.

Can I make mini calzones for appetizers?

Absolutely! Cut the pastry into smaller squares for bite-sized calzones, perfect for snacking.

What can I serve with calzones?

Serve them with marinara sauce for dipping, a side salad, or roasted vegetables.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato sauce?

Yes, finely chop fresh tomatoes and cook them with garlic and herbs to make a quick sauce.

Can I cook these in an air fryer?

Yes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, checking halfway through.

How can I make these gluten-free?

Use gluten-free puff pastry or a homemade gluten-free dough alternative.

Can I add eggs to the filling?

Yes, scrambled or hard-boiled eggs can be a great addition, especially for breakfast calzones.

What other dipping sauces work well?

Besides marinara, try garlic butter, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli for extra flavor.

Conclusion

This quick calzone with puff pastry is a simple yet delicious meal that can be customized to suit any taste. With its flaky crust and gooey, savory filling, it’s an ideal recipe for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or even meal prep. Give it a try and enjoy a homemade calzone without the hassle of traditional dough!

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