Can You Make Calzone in Advance? The Secret to Effortless Weeknight Dinners
What To Know
- Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
- Place the assembled calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for long-term storage or refrigerate for shorter storage.
- Reheat calzones in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) or in a microwave until heated through.
In the realm of culinary delights, calzones reign supreme as a savory and portable treat. However, the thought of making calzones from scratch can often deter home cooks due to time constraints. But fear not, for the answer to the question “Can you make calzone in advance?” is a resounding yes!
Advance Preparation: A Step-by-Step Guide
To embark on this time-saving journey, follow these simple steps:
1. Prepare the Dough and Filling: Craft your desired dough and filling as usual.
2. Assemble the Calzones: Divide the dough and roll out each portion into a circle. Fill each circle with your prepared filling.
3. Fold and Seal: Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Seal the edges tightly using a fork or your fingers.
4. Freeze or Refrigerate: Place the assembled calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. For long-term storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. For shorter storage, refrigerate them for up to 2 days.
Baking Your Advance Calzones
When you’re ready to enjoy your culinary masterpiece, follow these instructions:
1. Thaw Frozen Calzones: If frozen, thaw the calzones overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
2. Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to the temperature specified in your dough recipe.
3. Brush with Egg Wash: Brush the calzones with an egg wash (1 egg whisked with 1 tablespoon of water) for a golden-brown crust.
4. Bake: Bake the calzones according to the dough recipe‘s instructions.
Benefits of Advance Calzone Preparation
The benefits of making calzone in advance are undeniable:
- Time-Saving: Prepare your calzones ahead of time and save precious time on busy weeknights.
- Meal Planning: Plan your meals in advance by making calzones and storing them for later use.
- Convenience: Have a delicious and satisfying meal ready to go whenever you need it.
- Party-Perfect: Prepare calzones in advance for parties or gatherings to reduce last-minute stress.
Make-Ahead Calzone Tips
- Use a sturdy dough: Choose a dough that will hold up well to freezing and thawing.
- Avoid overfilling: Overfilling the calzones can make them difficult to seal and bake evenly.
- Label and date: Clearly label and date your calzones for easy identification when thawing.
- Thaw thoroughly: Ensure the calzones are fully thawed before baking to avoid undercooked areas.
- Reheat carefully: Reheat the calzones in a preheated oven or microwave until heated through.
Creative Calzone Fillings
- Classic: Mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, pepperoni, and basil
- Meat Lovers: Ground beef, sausage, bacon, ham, and mushrooms
- Veggie Delight: Spinach, artichoke hearts, bell peppers, onions, and sun-dried tomatoes
- Spicy Fiesta: Chicken, black beans, corn, cilantro, and jalapeños
- Seafood Sensation: Shrimp, crab, scallops, and cream sauce
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make calzone dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
2. How do I store assembled calzones before baking?
Place the assembled calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for long-term storage or refrigerate for shorter storage.
3. How long can I store frozen calzones?
Frozen calzones can be stored for up to 3 months.
4. Can I bake calzones without thawing them?
It’s not recommended as the calzones may not cook evenly.
5. What temperature should I reheat calzones at?
Reheat calzones in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) or in a microwave until heated through.