Reheating a calzone doesn’t have to result in a soggy, unappetizing mess. With the right techniques, you can restore your leftover calzone to its former glory, achieving a crispy exterior and warm, gooey interior. The best way to reheat a calzone is in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
While the oven method produces optimal results, there are other options for reheating calzones. An air fryer can crisp up the crust nicely in just a few minutes, while a skillet on the stovetop offers a quick solution for those short on time. Even a microwave can work in a pinch, though it may sacrifice some of the calzone’s signature crispiness.
Whether you’re dealing with refrigerated or frozen leftovers, proper reheating can make your calzone taste almost as good as when it was freshly baked. By choosing the right method and following a few simple steps, you can enjoy your favorite Italian turnover at its best, even on the second day.
Preparation for Reheating Calzones
Proper preparation is crucial for achieving the best results when reheating calzones. This involves thawing frozen calzones and bringing refrigerated ones to room temperature.
Thawing Frozen Calzones
Frozen calzones require thawing before reheating to ensure even warming. The safest method is to transfer the frozen calzone from the freezer to the refrigerator. Allow it to thaw overnight or for 8-12 hours. This gradual thawing process helps maintain the calzone’s texture and flavor.
For quicker thawing, use the microwave’s defrost setting. Place the frozen calzone on a microwave-safe plate and defrost in 30-second intervals. Rotate the calzone between intervals for even thawing. Be cautious not to start cooking the calzone during this process.
Bringing Calzones to Room Temperature
For refrigerated calzones or those freshly thawed, letting them reach room temperature before reheating is beneficial. Remove the calzone from the refrigerator 30-60 minutes before reheating. This step helps the calzone heat more evenly, preventing a cold center and overcooked exterior.
Place the calzone on a clean plate or cutting board while it warms up. If time is limited, 15-20 minutes at room temperature can still improve reheating results. Always ensure food safety by not leaving calzones at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Reheating Calzones in the Oven
The oven method is ideal for restoring a calzone’s crispy exterior while ensuring the filling is heated through. This technique works well for both homemade and store-bought calzones.
Preparing the Oven and Baking Sheet
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature allows for even heating without burning the crust. Place a baking sheet in the oven while it preheats. A hot baking sheet helps crisp up the bottom of the calzone.
For best results, use a pizza stone if available. The stone retains heat exceptionally well, creating a crispier crust. If using a stone, place it in the oven during preheating.
Remove the calzone from any packaging and let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes. This step prevents thermal shock and promotes even reheating.
Using Aluminum Foil for Crispiness
Aluminum foil can be a useful tool when reheating calzones. Wrap the calzone loosely in foil, leaving the top partially open. This technique traps heat to warm the filling while allowing moisture to escape.
For a crispier result, unwrap the calzone during the last few minutes of reheating. This exposes the crust directly to the oven’s heat, creating a golden-brown exterior.
If the calzone is already crispy, keep it fully wrapped in foil to prevent over-browning. The foil will protect the crust while allowing the filling to heat thoroughly.
Oven Timing and Temperature
Place the prepared calzone on the preheated baking sheet or pizza stone. Reheat for 15-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Larger or thicker calzones may require additional time.
Check the calzone after 10 minutes. If the crust is browning too quickly, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue heating.
Use oven mitts to carefully remove the baking sheet or stone. Let the calzone cool for 2-3 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the filling to set and reduces the risk of burns.
For an extra crispy crust, brush the calzone with olive oil before reheating. This technique enhances browning and adds flavor to the pizza dough exterior.
Using the Skillet Method
The skillet method offers precise control over heat and texture when reheating calzones. This approach allows for a crispy exterior while maintaining a warm, melty interior.
Choosing the Right Skillet
Select a non-stick skillet or well-seasoned cast iron pan for best results. The non-stick surface prevents the calzone from adhering to the pan and makes cleanup easier. Ensure the skillet is large enough to accommodate the calzone without overcrowding.
A heavy-bottomed pan distributes heat more evenly, reducing the risk of hot spots that could burn the calzone. If using a cast iron skillet, preheat it gradually to prevent thermal shock and ensure consistent heating.
Reheating Calzone on Medium Heat
Place the skillet on the stovetop and set the heat to medium. Allow the pan to warm up for a few minutes before adding the calzone. This preheating step ensures even cooking from the start.
Place the calzone in the center of the skillet. Cover with a lid to trap heat and steam, which helps warm the filling thoroughly. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, checking periodically to prevent burning.
For larger calzones, consider cutting them in half to ensure even heating throughout. This also reduces the overall reheating time.
Adding Crispness with Oil or Butter
To enhance the calzone’s crispness, add a small amount of oil or butter to the skillet before reheating. Use about 1 teaspoon of olive oil or butter per calzone.
Spread the oil or butter evenly across the pan’s surface. This creates a thin layer that promotes browning and adds flavor to the crust. For a healthier option, use a cooking spray instead.
As the calzone reheats, the oil or butter will help create a golden, crispy exterior. Rotate the calzone every minute to ensure even browning on all sides. This method results in a satisfying crunch with each bite.
Reheating with an Air Fryer
Air fryers offer a quick and effective method for reheating calzones. This technique ensures a crispy exterior while maintaining a warm, gooey interior.
Adjusting Air Fryer Settings
Preheat the air fryer to 380-400°F (193-204°C) for optimal results. Place the calzone in the basket, ensuring it doesn’t touch the sides. Cook for 5-8 minutes, depending on the calzone’s size and filling.
For thicker calzones, reduce the temperature to 350°F (177°C) and extend cooking time to 8-10 minutes. This prevents burning the outside while thoroughly heating the inside.
Check the calzone halfway through reheating. If needed, flip it over for even crisping. Use tongs to handle hot calzones safely.
Benefits of Hot Air Circulation
Air fryers use rapid hot air circulation to reheat food evenly. This technology mimics deep-frying without excess oil, resulting in a crispy calzone crust.
The circulating hot air penetrates the calzone, reheating fillings thoroughly. This method prevents soggy spots often encountered with microwave reheating.
Air fryers also retain the calzone’s original texture better than other reheating methods. The crust becomes crisp and golden, while cheese melts perfectly inside.
For best results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Reheating calzones in batches ensures proper air circulation and even heating.
Microwave Reheating Tips
Reheating calzones in the microwave requires careful techniques to maintain texture and flavor. Proper methods can help preserve moisture while avoiding sogginess.
Avoiding Sogginess
Use a medium power setting between 50-70% to prevent overcooking and drying out the calzone. Cover the calzone loosely with a damp paper towel or microwave-safe lid to retain moisture. This creates a steaming effect, keeping the filling moist and helping melt the cheese evenly.
Microwave in short bursts of 30-45 seconds, checking between intervals. This allows for more control over the reheating process and prevents hot spots. Place the calzone on the outer edge of the turntable for more even heat distribution.
For a crispier crust, use a microwave crisper tray if available. Alternatively, finish reheating in a toaster oven for 1-2 minutes to crisp up the exterior.
Using Microwave-Safe Tools
Select a microwave-safe plate that won’t retain excessive heat. Ceramic or glass dishes work well. Avoid metal containers or aluminum foil, which can cause sparking and damage the microwave.
Consider using a microwave-safe cover or inverted plate over the calzone. This traps steam while allowing some to escape, preventing sogginess. For larger calzones, a microwave splatter guard can be useful.
If reheating multiple calzones, space them evenly on the plate. This ensures proper heat circulation and even warming. Use microwave-safe utensils to check the internal temperature, aiming for at least 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Post-Reheating Considerations
Properly reheating a calzone is only part of the process. Ensuring even heat distribution and choosing appropriate serving suggestions can elevate your reheated calzone experience.
Checking for Even Heat Distribution
A food thermometer is essential for verifying even heat distribution in reheated calzones. Insert it into the thickest part of the calzone, aiming for the center. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
If some areas are cooler, return the calzone to the heat source for a few more minutes. Pay attention to the gooey interior, as cheese pockets may heat unevenly.
For leftover calzones with a crispy outer crust, check that the exterior isn’t burning while the inside warms. If needed, lower the heat and extend cooking time slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Enhance your reheated calzone with complementary sides and presentations. A fresh green salad provides a crisp contrast to the warm, savory calzone. Consider a light vinaigrette dressing to balance the rich flavors.
Slice the calzone diagonally for an appetizing presentation. This cut reveals the gooey interior, creating an inviting visual.
Offer marinara or pizza sauce on the side for dipping. This adds moisture and flavor, especially if the reheated calzone seems slightly dry.
For a complete meal, pair the calzone with roasted vegetables or a cup of minestrone soup. These additions create a well-rounded Italian-inspired dining experience.
Best Practices for Storing Calzones
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality of calzones. When storing in the refrigerator, place calzones in an airtight container to prevent moisture loss and absorption of other food odors. Consume refrigerated calzones within 3 days for optimal freshness and taste.
For longer-term storage, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap each calzone individually in aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. Place the wrapped calzones in a freezer-safe bag or container for added protection.
Label the package with the date to keep track of storage time. Frozen calzones can maintain quality for up to 3 months when stored properly. To thaw, transfer from the freezer to the refrigerator overnight.
When reheating a frozen calzone, it’s best to use the oven method. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the calzone directly on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
For quick reheating of refrigerated calzones, the oven method is also recommended. Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 8-10 minutes. This ensures a crispy crust and evenly heated filling.