Reheating a calzone can be tricky, but with the right method, you can enjoy a perfectly warmed meal that tastes just as delicious as when it was first made. The best way to reheat a calzone for perfectly even warmth is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping it halfway through.
This method ensures the filling heats evenly while maintaining the crispy texture of the crust. It’s important to place the calzone on a preheated baking sheet to help achieve an evenly heated result. For those short on time, a skillet can be used as an alternative, though it requires more attention to prevent burning.
Food safety is crucial when reheating any dish, including calzones. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) to eliminate any potential harmful bacteria. By following these guidelines, you can savor your leftover calzone with confidence, knowing it’s both safe and delicious.
Understanding Calzones
Calzones are folded pizza-like creations with a golden crust encasing savory fillings. Proper storage and knowledge of their structure are key to enjoying these Italian treats at their best.
Anatomy of a Calzone
A calzone consists of a circular pizza dough folded in half and sealed to create a crescent shape. The outer layer is a crisp, golden crust that protects the fillings inside. Typical ingredients include mozzarella cheese, ricotta, and various meats or vegetables.
The sealed edge is often crimped to prevent leakage during cooking. This design allows the fillings to steam and meld together, creating a unique flavor profile distinct from traditional pizza. The interior remains moist and gooey, while the exterior crust develops a satisfying crunch.
Storing Leftover Calzones
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality of leftover calzones. Allow the calzone to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess. Wrap individual calzones tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
For short-term storage, place wrapped calzones in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the wrapped calzones in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen calzones can last up to 3 months.
When ready to eat, thaw frozen calzones in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This ensures even warming and prevents a soggy crust.
Prepping the Calzone for Reheating
Proper preparation is crucial for achieving optimal results when reheating a calzone. Taking the right steps beforehand ensures food safety and even warming throughout.
Thawing Frozen Calzones
If your calzone is frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator for 6-8 hours or overnight. This slow thawing method helps maintain the texture and flavor of the calzone.
For quicker thawing, use the defrost setting on your microwave. Place the calzone on a microwave-safe plate and defrost in 30-second intervals, rotating it each time.
Once thawed, pat the calzone dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step prevents a soggy crust during reheating.
Safety Considerations Before Reheating
Check the calzone for any signs of spoilage before reheating. Discard if there’s an off odor, mold, or discoloration.
Ensure your calzone reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any potential bacteria. Use a food thermometer to verify.
If reheating in the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). This temperature allows for even heating without burning the crust.
Consider wrapping the calzone in aluminum foil to prevent the crust from drying out. Leave a small opening for steam to escape.
Reheating Methods Examined
Several techniques can be used to reheat calzones effectively, each with its own advantages. The key is to restore the crispy exterior while ensuring the filling is heated thoroughly.
Oven Method
Preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) is essential for optimal results. Place the calzone on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper. For an extra-crispy crust, use a pizza stone if available.
Heat the calzone for 10-15 minutes, flipping it halfway through. This ensures even heat distribution and prevents one side from becoming too crispy. Check the internal temperature with a food thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
For larger calzones, cover them loosely with foil to prevent overcooking of the crust while the filling heats through. Remove the foil for the last few minutes to crisp up the exterior.
Microwave Method
While not ideal for maintaining crispiness, the microwave offers a quick reheating option. Place the calzone on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, depending on size. Check and rotate the calzone, then heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Let it rest for a minute before eating to allow the heat to distribute evenly.
To improve texture, finish the calzone in a toaster oven or under the broiler for 1-2 minutes to crisp up the crust.
Toaster Oven Method
Toaster ovens provide a balance between speed and quality. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the calzone directly on the rack or on a small baking sheet.
Heat for 5-8 minutes, checking frequently to prevent burning. Flip the calzone halfway through for even heating. This method is particularly effective for smaller calzones or individual portions.
Use the “toast” setting for the last minute to achieve a golden-brown, crispy exterior. Let it cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth.
Air Fryer Method
Air fryers offer a quick and efficient way to reheat calzones with excellent results. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the calzone in the basket, ensuring it’s not overcrowded.
Cook for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This method provides a crispy exterior while maintaining a moist interior. For larger calzones, increase the cooking time slightly.
Avoid using oil or cooking spray, as the calzone’s existing fat content is usually sufficient. Let it cool for a minute before serving to allow the filling to set.
Stovetop Method
The stovetop method works well for maintaining a crispy crust. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the calzone in the pan and cover with a lid.
Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, using a spatula to press it gently. This helps distribute heat evenly and crisp up the exterior. For thicker calzones, reduce heat and cook longer to ensure the center warms through.
Add a few drops of water to the pan and cover immediately to create steam, which helps melt the cheese and heat the filling thoroughly. Be cautious when removing the lid to avoid steam burns.
Achieving Consistent Heat
Achieving even warmth throughout a reheated calzone requires careful attention to temperature and cooking methods. Proper techniques ensure a crispy exterior while maintaining a hot, gooey interior.
Using a Pizza Stone for Even Heat Distribution
A pizza stone is an excellent tool for reheating calzones. Preheat the stone in the oven at 375°F for about 30 minutes before use. This allows the stone to absorb and retain heat effectively. Place the calzone directly on the hot stone. The stone’s porous surface helps draw out moisture, resulting in a crisp bottom crust.
For those without a pizza stone, a preheated baking sheet can serve as an alternative. While not as effective, it still provides better results than placing the calzone on a cold surface.
Cooking Times and Temperature Tips
Reheating time varies based on the calzone’s size and filling. Generally, 10-15 minutes at 375°F works well for most calzones. Larger or frozen calzones may need up to 20 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a food thermometer into the center. It should read at least 165°F.
To prevent burning, cover the calzone with foil if the crust browns too quickly. Remove the foil for the last few minutes to crisp up the exterior. For extra crispiness, brush the crust with olive oil before reheating.
Final Touches for a Perfectly Reheated Calzone
After reheating your calzone using your preferred method, a few final touches can elevate it to perfection. Let the calzone rest for 1-2 minutes before cutting or biting into it. This allows the internal temperature to even out and prevents burning.
For a crispy crust, brush the exterior lightly with olive oil before reheating. This enhances browning and adds a delightful crunch. If desired, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top during the last minute of reheating for extra flavor.
To revive a slightly dry calzone, serve it with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping. This adds moisture and complements the flavors inside. For frozen calzones, ensure they are fully thawed before reheating to achieve even warming throughout.
Check the internal temperature with a food thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure safe consumption. If needed, return it to the heat source for additional warming.
Serve the calzone on a warm plate to maintain its temperature. Cut it in half to release steam and prevent soggy spots. With these final touches, your reheated calzone will taste nearly as good as freshly made.
