PIZZA CALZONE WITH BEEF

Savor the flavor of a Pizza Calzone with Beef, a delightful twist on traditional pizza! This dish is perfect for various occasions, whether it’s a family dinner, casual gathering, or game day snack. Encased in a crispy, golden crust, this calzone is packed with seasoned ground beef, melty mozzarella cheese, and your favorite toppings. Dip it in marinara sauce for an extra burst of flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you can whip up this calzone in no time.
• Customizable Filling: Add your favorite ingredients to make it uniquely yours. Think vegetables, different cheeses, or sauces!
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut into slices for a fun appetizer or serve whole for an impressive main course.
• Great Leftovers: This calzone tastes just as good the next day—simply reheat for a delicious meal!
• Kid-Friendly: A fun way to get kids involved in cooking; they can help fill and fold the calzones!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of your Pizza Calzone with Beef, gather your essential tools. These kitchen gadgets will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Large skillet
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Ensures an even thickness when rolling out your dough.
• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the beef mixture quickly and evenly.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking your calzone to perfection.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes clean-up easier.

Ingredients

For this delectable Pizza Calzone with Beef, gather the following:

For the Beef Filling

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Calzone Assembly

• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup sliced pepperoni (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Dough

• 1 package (17.5 ounces) refrigerated pizza dough
• 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)

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How to Make PIZZA CALZONE WITH BEEF

Step 1: Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Add ground beef to the skillet.
2. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Cook while breaking apart with a spoon until browned and cooked through.
4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Then:
1. Roll out the refrigerated pizza dough on a floured surface into a large circle (about 12 inches in diameter).

Step 3: Assemble the Calzone

On one half of the dough:
1. Spread a layer of pizza sauce while leaving a border around the edges.
2. Top with the cooked beef mixture, shredded mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni if desired.
3. Fold over the other half of the dough to cover the filling.
4. Crimp the edges together to seal.

Step 4: Brush and Bake

Transfer the assembled calzone onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper:
1. Brush the top with beaten egg for that golden finish.
2. Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until crust is golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

Allow the calzone to cool for a few minutes before slicing:
1. Serve warm with additional pizza sauce on the side for dipping.
2. Enjoy every flavorful bite!

How to Serve PIZZA CALZONE WITH BEEF

Serving a Pizza Calzone with Beef is all about enhancing that delicious flavor and making it a complete meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your calzone experience even better.

Pair with Marinara Sauce

• Classic Combo: Serve your calzone with warm marinara sauce for dipping. The rich tomato flavor perfectly complements the savory beef filling.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty calzone.

Offer Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread Sticks: Crispy garlic bread sticks are an excellent side option. They add extra flavor and are perfect for dipping into marinara sauce.

Include Cheese Sticks

• Mozzarella Cheese Sticks: These cheesy delights can be a fun appetizer before enjoying the calzone. Serve them with marinara for added flavor.

Serve with Pickles

• Dill Pickles: The crunch and tang of dill pickles can brighten up the meal, adding a zesty balance to the richness of the calzone.

Pair with Wine or Beer

• Beverage Options: A light Italian red wine or a crisp lager complements the flavors of your beef calzone beautifully, elevating your dining experience.

How to Perfect PIZZA CALZONE WITH BEEF

Making the perfect Pizza Calzone with Beef requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to achieve calzone perfection every time.

• Seasoning: Ensure your ground beef is well-seasoned to enhance its flavor. Don’t hesitate to adjust spices according to your taste preferences.
• Dough Thickness: Roll out your pizza dough evenly; too thick can lead to undercooked centers, while too thin may tear during assembly.
• Seal Properly: Crimp the edges of the calzone tightly to prevent any filling from leaking out during baking.
• Preheat Oven: Always preheat your oven fully before baking. This ensures an even cook and crispy crust.
• Egg Wash for Shine: Use an egg wash on top of your calzone before baking for a beautiful golden finish.
• Cool Before Slicing: Allow the calzone to cool slightly before slicing. This helps prevent the filling from spilling out when cut.

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Best Side Dishes for PIZZA CALZONE WITH BEEF

A delicious Pizza Calzone with Beef pairs well with various side dishes that can round out your meal. Consider these tasty options:

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in creamy Caesar dressing offers a classic pairing with rich flavors.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients while complementing the hearty calzone filling.
3. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables makes for a delightful appetizer.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs serve as a satisfying accompaniment alongside the main dish.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of the beef-filled calzone.
6. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze brings an Italian flair that pairs beautifully with pizza dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Pizza Calzone with Beef, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Ignoring Dough Thickness: If the dough is too thick, it may not cook properly. Roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thick for an even bake.
• Overstuffing the Calzone: Adding too much filling can lead to a messy explosion during baking. Stick to a generous but controlled amount of filling.
• Skipping the Egg Wash: Not brushing your calzone with egg wash can result in a dull crust. An egg wash gives it that beautiful golden color.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking your calzone in a cold oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven before placing the calzone inside.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect how well the dough rises and bakes. Allow all ingredients, especially cheese and sauce, to reach room temperature before assembling.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Pizza Calzone with Beef in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing PIZZA CALZONE WITH BEEF

• Wrap each calzone tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating PIZZA CALZONE WITH BEEF

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the calzone on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, but this may result in a softer crust.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, covered, for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make PIZZA CALZONE WITH BEEF from scratch?

Making Pizza Calzone with Beef from scratch involves preparing your own pizza dough and filling it with ground beef, cheese, and favorite toppings before baking.

Can I customize my PIZZA CALZONE WITH BEEF?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or switch out beef for chicken or sausage based on your preference.

What dipping sauces go well with PIZZA CALZONE WITH BEEF?

Marinara sauce is classic, but ranch dressing or garlic butter also pairs wonderfully with this calzone.

How long does it take to prepare PIZZA CALZONE WITH BEEF?

The total time is approximately 40 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.

Can I use store-bought pizza dough for PIZZA CALZONE WITH BEEF?

Yes! Store-bought pizza dough works perfectly if you want to save time while still enjoying this tasty dish.

Final Thoughts

Pizza Calzone with Beef is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it based on your family’s tastes or what you have on hand. Whether served as a comforting family dinner or as a fun party snack, this recipe is sure to impress anyone who tries it. Give it a go and enjoy every bite!