Mini Pesto and Cheese Calzones Recipe

If you love the idea of a personal-sized, golden, cheesy package bursting with vibrant, herby pesto, then this Mini Pesto and Cheese Calzones Recipe is about to become your new favorite snack or appetizer. These delightful pockets combine the gooey richness of mozzarella and ricotta with the fresh, aromatic goodness of pesto, all wrapped up in tender, perfectly baked dough. They are not just incredibly delicious but also super fun to make, perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in when you want something satisfying and a little special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a big part in achieving the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Fresh pesto delivers that punch of basil and garlic, cheeses bring creamy richness, and the dough holds it all together with a golden crust that’s irresistible.

• 1 pound of pizza dough: Use storebought or homemade, this is the tender yet sturdy base for your calzones.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella: Melts beautifully and stretches, adding gooey, cheesy goodness.
• ½ cup fresh ricotta: Adds a luscious creaminess and balances mozzarella’s elasticity with softness.
• Filippo Berio Pesto: Choose your favorite flavor to infuse a fresh, herby punch packed with basil and pine nuts.
• 1 egg: Used to brush the calzones for a glossy, golden finish that looks as good as it tastes.
• Flour for rolling dough: Keeps the dough from sticking and ensures easy shaping.

How to Make Mini Pesto and Cheese Calzones Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Dough

Start by lightly dusting your work surface with flour and rolling out the pizza dough into a large rectangle about ¼-inch thick. The light flour dusting will help prevent sticking while giving the dough a nice texture. Think of the dough as your canvas for this savory masterpiece.

Step 2: Mix the Cheese Filling

In a bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella and fresh ricotta, mixing them gently so the textures meld without losing their character. This blend creates the perfect creamy and chewy contrast that’s key to the recipe.

Step 3: Add the Pesto

Spread a generous spoonful of Filippo Berio Pesto over the dough, keeping it within the edges to avoid leaks. The pesto is the star flavor here, so don’t be shy—its vibrant taste makes these mini calzones unforgettable.

Step 4: Assemble the Calzones

Spoon the cheese mixture onto one half of the dough in small circles spaced evenly apart. Carefully fold the dough over the cheese and pesto-covered half, then use a fork to press and seal each calzone’s edges tight. This ensures the delicious filling stays inside during baking.

Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash

Beat the egg and brush it over each calzone for a beautiful golden shine once they’re in the oven. This step adds a lovely color and a slight crispiness to the crust that makes these irresistible.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the mini calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-18 minutes or until golden brown and puffed. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point will have you counting down the minutes.

How to Serve Mini Pesto and Cheese Calzones Recipe

Garnishes

Once out of the oven, sprinkle your mini calzones with freshly grated Parmesan or a little cracked black pepper for an extra flavor kick. A few fresh basil leaves scattered on the plate can brighten the presentation and add a lovely herbal note.

Side Dishes

Mini pesto and cheese calzones pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or even a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping. These sides keep the meal light and vibrant while complementing the richness of the calzones perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve them on a wooden board with small bowls of extra pesto or spicy red pepper flakes for guests to customize their bites. For a fun twist, try skewering the calzones with colorful toothpicks for party platters or alongside a refreshing iced tea with lemon slices.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool leftover mini calzones completely before placing them in an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, they stay fresh for up to 3 days. This makes for an easy grab-and-go snack or addition to lunchboxes.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked calzones in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once solid. They keep their goodness for up to 2 months, letting you enjoy this Mini Pesto and Cheese Calzones Recipe anytime you want without the fuss.

Reheating

Reheat your mini calzones in a 350°F oven covered with foil for about 10-12 minutes to retain moisture and crunch. Avoid microwaving when possible, as the crust can become chewy rather than delightfully crisp.

FAQs

Can I use storebought pesto for this recipe?

Absolutely! Storebought pesto like Filippo Berio offers a quick and delicious shortcut without sacrificing flavor. You can always enhance it with a squeeze of fresh lemon or extra garlic if you want to personalize it.

What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?

You can substitute ricotta with cream cheese or even cottage cheese, although the texture and creaminess will slightly vary. Ricotta adds a light and fluffy feel that complements the mozzarella best.

Can I make these calzones vegetarian-friendly?

This Mini Pesto and Cheese Calzones Recipe is naturally vegetarian but not vegan. For a vegan version, you’d need to use plant-based cheese alternatives and a vegan dough, which can be just as tasty with the right ingredients.

Is it possible to prepare the calzones ahead of time and bake later?

Yes, you can assemble the calzones and keep them refrigerated for a few hours before baking. Just cover them well to prevent the dough from drying out, then proceed with baking as usual.

How do I prevent the calzones from leaking during baking?

Sealing the edges tightly with a fork is key, and avoid overfilling. Keeping the filling away from the edges will make sure your Mini Pesto and Cheese Calzones Recipe turns out neat, with all the cheesy goodness inside.

Final Thoughts

This Mini Pesto and Cheese Calzones Recipe is a wonderful way to celebrate simple, fresh ingredients wrapped up in a cozy, delicious package. Whether you’re serving them for a crowd or indulging solo, these calzones bring smiles and satisfaction every time. Give this recipe a go and watch how these irresistible little pockets quickly become a beloved treat in your kitchen.

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