Air-Frying Leonetti's Calzones: A Tasty Experiment

Calzones are a delicious alternative to pizza, and they can be made in an air fryer! But can Leonetti's calzones be cooked in an air fryer? The answer is yes! Leonetti's calzones can be cooked in an air fryer in the same way as other frozen calzones. Simply preheat your air fryer, place the frozen calzone inside, and cook for around 12-15 minutes. You may want to flip the calzone halfway through to ensure even cooking. Enjoy your crispy, golden-brown air-fried calzone!

Leonetti's calzones: cook time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for Leonetti's calzones in an air fryer will depend on whether they are cooked from frozen or fresh, and whether the calzones are mini or regular-sized.

Frozen Calzones

To cook frozen calzones in an air fryer, first, spray the inside of the air fryer basket with a non-stick cooking spray. Then, place the frozen calzones in the basket and cook at 350°F for 12-15 minutes.

Fresh Calzones

To cook fresh calzones in an air fryer, first, spray the inside of the air fryer basket with a non-stick cooking spray. Place the fresh calzones in the basket and cook at 375°F for 7-10 minutes, turning them halfway through.

Mini Calzones

To cook mini calzones in an air fryer, first, preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper and spray with avocado oil. Place the mini calzones into the basket and mist them with avocado oil. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, turn them over, mist with avocado oil again, and air fry for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Leonetti's calzones: freezing and reheating

Freezing

If you have leftover Leonetti's calzones, you can freeze them for later. First, let them cool down completely. Then, wrap each calzone in plastic wrap or aluminium foil and place them in a freezer bag or container. Label and date the calzones, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Air Fryer

The best way to reheat calzones is in the air fryer. Set the temperature to 350°F to 375°F and reheat for 7-10 minutes, flipping the calzones halfway through. If reheating from frozen, increase the cooking time to 12-15 minutes.

Oven

Reheating calzones in the oven is another popular method. Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the calzones on a baking sheet. Reheat for 10-15 minutes for fresh or refrigerated calzones, and 18-20 minutes for frozen. For optimal results, brush the calzones with olive oil or melted butter before reheating, and allow them to rest for a few minutes after removing from the oven.

Microwave

While not ideal, you can also reheat calzones in the microwave. Wrap the calzone in a damp paper towel and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, being careful not to overheat and dry out the filling.

Stovetop

To reheat calzones on the stovetop, use a skillet and heat over medium-low heat for 2 minutes on each side. If the crust is too dry, add a tablespoon or two of water to the skillet and cover to trap the moisture.

Leonetti's calzones: dough and fillings

Dough

The dough for calzones is similar to pizza dough. It typically consists of lukewarm water, active dry yeast, olive oil, honey, salt, and all-purpose flour. The dough is kneaded on a floured surface until it is soft, smooth, and elastic. It is then shaped into circles, with fillings placed on one half, and folded over to create a half-circle or semicircle. The edges are sealed by crimping or pressing with a fork.

Fillings

Calzone fillings can vary according to preference but typically include an assortment of meats, cheeses, vegetables, and sauces. Here are some common options:

Meats:

• Salami
• Pepperoni
• Canadian bacon
• Ham
• Bacon
• Chicken
• Italian sausage
• Steak strips
• Meatballs

Cheeses:

• Mozzarella
• Parmesan
• Sharp cheddar
• Feta
• Goat cheese
• Ricotta
• Provolone

Vegetables:

• Mushrooms
• Bell peppers
• Pepperoncini
• Marinated artichokes
• Spinach
• Red onions

Sauces:

• Red pizza sauce
• White sauce
• Pesto
• Marinara sauce

Customization

The beauty of calzones is that they can be customized to suit individual tastes. You can experiment with different combinations of fillings and sauces to create your perfect calzone. Additionally, you can sprinkle seasonings like Italian seasoning or Johnny's seasoning inside the calzone to elevate the flavor.

Leonetti's calzones: sealing the edges

Leonetti's calzones can be cooked in an air fryer, and sealing the edges is a critical step in the process. Here is a detailed guide to sealing calzones:

Preparing the Dough and Filling:

Start by preparing the calzone dough and allowing it to rise. Divide the dough into equal portions, with each portion typically using about 4-6 ounces of dough. Roll out each piece of dough on a floured surface to create a circular shape, ensuring the edges are slightly thicker than the center to prevent tearing during sealing.

Adding the Filling:

Place your desired fillings on one half of the dough circle, leaving about a 1-inch space around the edge for sealing. This space is crucial for a secure seal. Common fillings include sauces, cheeses, meats, and vegetables. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the calzone to leak or burst.

Moistening the Edges:

Before sealing the calzone, it is important to moisten the edges of the dough with water. You can use your finger or a brush to apply the water. This step ensures a stronger bond when pressing the edges together and helps create a secure seal.

Sealing Techniques:

Now, carefully fold the empty half of the dough over the filled half, creating a semi-circular or half-moon shape. Use your fingers or a fork to press and crimp the edges firmly together, sealing in the fillings. The fork crimp method is simple and effective, giving a decorative edge to your calzone. For a more rustic look, you can elongate and twist the edges, creating a braided effect.

Egg Wash (Optional):

Applying an egg wash to the surface of the calzone is optional but can enhance the color and texture. Brush the calzone with the egg wash before baking for a golden-brown finish.

Baking:

Place the sealed calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

Tips for Success:

• Ensure your dough is at room temperature for optimal flexibility and ease of sealing.
• Do not skip the moistening step, as it is crucial for creating a strong seal.
• Avoid overstuffing the calzone to prevent bursting or leakage.
• Allow your dough to rest for a few minutes before rolling to make it more pliable and easier to work with.

By following these steps and techniques, you will be well on your way to creating perfectly sealed Leonetti's calzones, ready to be cooked in your air fryer!

Leonetti's calzones: serving suggestions

What to Serve with Leonetti's Calzones

Leonetti's calzones can be served as a delicious standalone meal or with a variety of sides and dips. Here are some suggestions:

• Marinara Sauce: This is a classic dip for calzones and can add extra flavour to your meal.
• Ranch Dressing: A tangy and creamy dip that pairs well with the calzone.
• Salads: Try a refreshing zucchini radish salad or a parmesan pea salad with cherry tomatoes on the side.
• Air Fryer Roasted Brussels Sprouts: A tasty and healthy vegetable side dish.
• Italian Meatballs: For an extra protein boost to your meal.

Customising Your Calzones

You can get creative and customise your Leonetti's calzones with different fillings and dips to suit your taste preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Meat: Italian sausage, pepperoni, salami, prosciutto, ham, steak, or chicken. Remember to cook the meat fully before stuffing the calzone to avoid any issues with undercooked meat or soggy dough.
• Vegetables: Sautéed onions, spinach, mushrooms, roasted red peppers, black olives, or any other vegetables of your choice. Just ensure they are cooked to your desired texture before adding them to the calzone, as they will not cook further inside.
• Cheese: In addition to mozzarella, you can use ricotta, parmesan, provolone, or asiago cheese.
• Dips: Experiment with different dips like easy alfredo sauce, BBQ sauce, chimichurri sauce, or light ranch dressing.

Reheating and Storing Leonetti's Calzones

If you have leftover Leonetti's calzones, you can reheat them in the air fryer to restore their crispy texture. Here are some tips:

• Reheating Fresh Calzones: Place the leftover calzones in the air fryer basket coated with cooking spray. Heat at 375°F for 3-5 minutes to regain their crispy and gooey texture.
• Reheating Frozen Calzones: Coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray and place the frozen calzones inside. Cook at 375°F for 7-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are heated through.
• Storing: You can store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the fridge for a few days or freeze them for up to three months.

Frequently asked questions