Calzones are the ultimate comfort food that combines the best of pizza and handheld meals. This Beef and Cheddar Calzone recipe transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Imagine a golden-brown, crispy exterior giving way to a rich, savory filling of seasoned ground beef and melted cheddar cheese – a combination that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning appetites.
Ingredients
- Dough:
- 3¼ cups / 410g all-purpose flour
- 1 packet / 7g dry active yeast
- 1 tsp / 4g sugar
- 1 tsp / 6g salt
- 2 tbsp / 30ml olive oil
- 1 cup / 240ml warm water
- Filling:
- 10.5 oz / 300g ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp / 15g tomato paste
- 1 tsp paprika or Tex-Mex seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 5.3 oz / 150g shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 egg yolk (for egg wash)
- Olive oil for cooking
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
Begin by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, mix the yeast with warm water and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbling. This step is crucial for ensuring your dough rises properly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the olive oil and activated yeast mixture. Mix thoroughly until a shaggy dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes by hand (or 5 minutes with a stand mixer) until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for approximately 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they become translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is completely browned and no pink remains. Stir in the tomato paste, paprika (or Tex-Mex seasoning), salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to develop the flavors.
3. Assemble the Calzones
Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Punch down the risen dough and divide it into four equal pieces. On a floured surface, roll out each piece into a circular shape about ¼ inch thick.
Distribute the beef mixture evenly in the center of each dough circle. Top with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, and carefully seal the edges by crimping with a fork or pinching with your fingers.
4. Bake to Perfection
Carefully transfer the calzones to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top of each calzone with the egg yolk wash to create a beautiful golden-brown finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the calzones are a deep golden brown and the crust is crispy.
Nutritional Information and Serving Details
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Approximate Nutritional Values per Serving:
- Calories: 550-600
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
Pro Tips
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for the best results
- Don’t overfill the calzones to prevent splitting during baking
- Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping
Enjoy these delicious Beef and Cheddar Calzones – a perfect blend of comfort and flavor that’s sure to become a family favorite!