Meatball Calzones with Cheese and Herbs

Meatball Calzones with Cheese and Herbs Recipe | Italian Cuisine

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 13 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Meatball Calzones with Cheese and Herbs are a delicious and satisfying meal that combines the flavors of juicy meatballs, gooey cheese, and fragrant herbs all wrapped up in a warm and flaky crust. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a fun family dinner.

History

The origins of calzones can be traced back to Italy, where they are a popular street food and casual meal option. Traditionally, calzones are made with pizza dough and filled with a variety of ingredients, such as cheese, meats, and vegetables. This recipe puts a twist on the classic calzone by using meatballs as the main filling, adding a hearty and flavorful touch to the dish.

Ingredients

13.8 oz (391 g) can refrigerated pizza crust
26 oz (737 g) jar mini meatball pasta sauce
1 cup shredded Italian cheese blend
dried oregano and/or dried basil

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C).
Line a baking sheet with nonstick foil.
Unroll the crust on a cutting board and stretch the dough to a 12-inch square, then cut it into quarters.
Transfer the dough quarters to the baking sheet.
Pour the sauce into a bowl and distribute the meatballs in the centers of the dough squares.
Top each square with 0.25 cup of cheese.
Fold each square from corner to corner to form triangles.
Press the edges to seal the triangles and poke holes in the top.
Sprinkle with basil or oregano.
Bake for 13 minutes or until golden.
Heat the remaining sauce to serve on the side.

Variations

Try using different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, provolone, or cheddar, for a unique flavor profile.
Add in some sautéed onions, peppers, or mushrooms for extra veggies and flavor.
Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, or red pepper flakes, to customize the taste to your liking.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to stretch the pizza dough evenly to ensure that the calzones bake evenly.

- Press the edges of the calzones firmly to seal in the filling and prevent any leaks during baking.

- Poking holes in the top of the calzones allows steam to escape while baking, preventing them from becoming soggy.

- Serve the calzones with extra sauce on the side for dipping for an extra burst of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Meatball Calzones with Cheese and Herbs with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. They also pair well with a glass of red wine or a cold beer.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have mini pasta sauce, you can use regular pasta sauce and adjust the amount to your liking.

- Feel free to use homemade meatballs instead of store-bought for a more personalized touch.

- Any type of shredded cheese can be used in place of the Italian cheese blend.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the calzones up to the point of baking and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great option for meal prep or entertaining.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the calzones on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for a pop of color. You can also drizzle some extra sauce on top for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Meatball Calzones with Cheese and Herbs pair well with a side of garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or a bowl of soup for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Meatball Calzones with Cheese and Herbs contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Meatball Calzones with Cheese and Herbs contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Meatball Calzones with Cheese and Herbs contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Meatball Calzones with Cheese and Herbs contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Meatball Calzones with Cheese and Herbs are a good source of calcium, iron, and vitamin A.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy and gluten. Please be cautious if you have allergies to these ingredients.

Summary

Meatball Calzones with Cheese and Herbs are a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious and satisfying option for dinner.

Summary

Meatball Calzones with Cheese and Herbs are a delicious and comforting meal that is easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in. With a flaky crust, juicy meatballs, gooey cheese, and fragrant herbs, these calzones are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Meatball Calzones with Cheese and Herbs. It was a chilly autumn day, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that I had inherited from my grandmother. As I turned the pages, a faded and splattered piece of paper fell out from between the pages. It was a handwritten recipe for the most delicious-looking calzones I had ever seen.

The recipe was simple, yet intriguing. It called for homemade meatballs, a blend of cheeses, and a medley of fresh herbs. I could almost taste the savory flavors just by reading the ingredients. I knew right then and there that I had to try making these calzones for myself.

I spent the next few days gathering all the necessary ingredients. I made a trip to the local butcher for some ground beef and Italian sausage, and I picked up a variety of cheeses from the market. I also raided my herb garden for some fresh basil, oregano, and parsley. With everything in hand, I was ready to begin.

I started by making the meatballs. I mixed the ground beef and sausage with breadcrumbs, eggs, and a generous amount of herbs. I rolled the mixture into small balls and baked them in the oven until they were golden brown and cooked through. The aroma that filled my kitchen was heavenly – a tantalizing blend of garlic, herbs, and meat.

Next, I prepared the dough for the calzones. I kneaded the dough until it was soft and elastic, then rolled it out into thin circles. I spooned a generous amount of marinara sauce onto each circle, then topped it with the meatballs and a mixture of cheeses. I folded the dough over the fillings and crimped the edges to seal in the deliciousness.

As the calzones baked in the oven, the scent of bubbling cheese and herbs filled the air. I couldn't wait to taste the finished product. When the timer finally dinged, I eagerly pulled the calzones out of the oven and placed them on a platter. They were golden and crispy on the outside, and oozing with melty cheese and savory meatballs on the inside.

I took a bite, and my taste buds exploded with flavor. The combination of the juicy meatballs, gooey cheese, and fragrant herbs was a match made in culinary heaven. I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen.

Over the years, I have made these Meatball Calzones with Cheese and Herbs countless times. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, and each time I make them, they are met with rave reviews. There is something truly special about the way the flavors come together in this dish – it's comforting, satisfying, and utterly delicious.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that fateful day when I first discovered the recipe for Meatball Calzones with Cheese and Herbs, I am filled with gratitude. Gratitude for the generations of cooks who came before me, passing down their knowledge and love of food. Gratitude for the simple pleasures of cooking and sharing a meal with loved ones. And most of all, gratitude for the joy and fulfillment that comes from creating something delicious from scratch.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a comforting and satisfying meal, I urge you to give this recipe a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, perhaps this recipe will become a cherished favorite in your own kitchen, just as it has in mine. Bon appétit!