Pizza Calzone with Beef is the ultimate comfort food that has become a staple in my home. This delicious dish is bursting with seasoned ground beef, gooey mozzarella cheese, and your choice of favorite toppings, all nestled within a golden, crispy crust. It’s perfect for family dinners, game nights, or any time you crave a cozy meal. Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible dish!
Why You’ll Love This Pizza Calzone with Beef
This beef calzone recipe is not just any ordinary meal. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Second, you can customize it with your favorite ingredients, ensuring everyone gets exactly what they love. Third, the combination of seasoned beef and melted cheese creates an explosion of flavor. Fourth, it’s a great way to use leftover ingredients, reducing food waste. Fifth, it makes a filling dinner that’s perfect for satisfying hunger. Lastly, when paired with marinara sauce, every bite becomes a delightful experience. Plus, this dish falls under the Italian cuisine category, giving it a traditional flair!
Ingredients for Pizza Calzone with Beef
Gather these items:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 package refrigerated pizza dough
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- Optional: ½ cup sliced pepperoni
How to Make Pizza Calzone with Beef Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning; add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Step 2: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the pizza dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter.
- Step 3: Spread pizza sauce on half of the dough; top with cooked beef mixture and mozzarella cheese. Fold over the other half and crimp edges to seal.
- Step 4: Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top with beaten egg and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Step 5: Cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with extra pizza sauce for dipping.
Pro Tips for the Best Pizza Calzone with Beef
Keep these in mind:
- Perfect for family dinners or game nights.
- Customize with your favorite toppings.
- When making the calzone dough for beef filling, ensure it’s rolled out evenly to avoid tearing.
- Brush the calzone with olive oil before baking for an extra crispy texture.
- Test for doneness by tapping the bottom; it should sound hollow.
Best Ways to Serve Pizza Calzone with Beef
Here are some delicious ideas:
- Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
- Pair with a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Try adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.
How to Store and Reheat Pizza Calzone with Beef
To store, place any leftover calzone in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This method keeps the crust crispy, making it perfect for meal prep!
Frequently Asked Questions About Pizza Calzone with Beef
What is a calzone?
A calzone is an Italian dish that resembles a folded pizza, usually stuffed with various fillings such as meats, cheeses, and vegetables. The beef-filled calzone is a popular variation that offers a hearty meal option.
Can I make Pizza Calzone with Beef ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the calzone filling in advance and assemble it just before baking. This makes it a convenient option for busy days.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Pizza Calzone with Beef?
Ensure your dough is rolled out evenly to prevent uneven cooking. Avoid overfilling the calzone, as this can cause it to burst during baking. Use the right temperature for baking to achieve a perfectly golden crust.
Variations of Pizza Calzone with Beef You Can Try
Here are a few ideas:
- Try a stuffed calzone with beef and vegetables for added nutrition.
- Make a beef and cheese calzone by adding different types of cheeses.
- For a twist, use BBQ sauce instead of traditional pizza sauce.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to create a unique flavor profile.
For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Creamy Potato Soup for a comforting side dish. If you’re looking for something sweet, don’t miss our Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze.
For a deeper dive into Italian cuisine, you can explore more about calzones and their history.
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Pizza Calzone with Beef: 5 Steps to Perfect Comfort Food
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this delicious Pizza Calzone with Beef! Bursting with seasoned ground beef, gooey mozzarella cheese, and your choice of favorite toppings, all nestled within a golden, crispy crust.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 package refrigerated pizza dough
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- Optional: ½ cup sliced pepperoni
Instructions
- Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning; add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the pizza dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter.
- Spread pizza sauce on half of the dough; top with cooked beef mixture and mozzarella cheese. Fold over the other half and crimp edges to seal.
- Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top with beaten egg and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with extra pizza sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Perfect for family dinners or game nights.
- Customize with your favorite toppings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 calzone
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Pizza Calzone, Beef Calzone, Comfort Food









