Savoring Cheesy Jalapeño Bacon Calzones: A Flavorful Treat
If you’re looking for a mouthwatering dish that combines the rich taste of cheese, the crunch of bacon, and a fiery kick from jalapeños, look no further than cheesy jalapeño bacon calzones. This modern twist on the Italian classic offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that are sure to please the palate of any foodie. Grab your apron and let’s indulge in this culinary adventure!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To get started, gather the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces of diced bacon
- 3 cloves of garlic, peeled and minced
- ¼ cup of diced yellow onion
- 1 fresh jalapeño, seeded and diced
- ½ cup of pickled jalapeño slices
- 1 pound of raw pizza dough (thawed if frozen)
- 1 cup of ricotta cheese
- 2 cups of grated mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon of Italian herb seasoning
- ½ teaspoon of salt (only if the Italian seasoning does not contain salt)
- 1 egg, beaten (for an egg wash)
- ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 cups of warmed pizza sauce (for dipping)
Crafting the Perfect Calzone
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin your culinary journey by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This will prevent the calzones from sticking to the surface while they bake.
Step 2: Sizzling Bacon
Cook the diced bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow it to sizzle until it becomes crispy, roughly 5-8 minutes. The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible!
Step 3: Drain the Grease
Once crisped to perfection, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the skillet, placing it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Set aside.
Step 4: Flavor Infusion
In the same skillet, add minced garlic, diced onion, fresh jalapeño, and pickled jalapeño slices. Sauté until the mixture becomes tender, about 3 minutes. The delightful smell of this medley will transport you straight to flavor town!
Step 5: Mix Your Fillings
After draining the jalapeño mixture, it’s time to assemble your filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed jalapeño blend with ricotta, mozzarella, and Italian herbs. The combination of cheeses and spices will create a creamy, savory filling.
Step 6: Shape Your Calzones
Divide your pizza dough into four equal parts. Roll each piece into circles approximately ¼ inch thick, leaving a nice edge around each piece. Spoon the cheesy filling onto half of each dough circle, ensuring to leave about ½ inch of space.
Step 7: Seal the Deal
Fold the dough in half, encasing the filling within. Crimp the edges tightly to seal in all the deliciousness. This step is crucial for preventing any leakage while baking.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the calzones to your prepared baking sheet. Brush each one with the beaten egg for a glorious golden finish. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and crushed red pepper flakes before placing them in the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes until they are beautifully golden brown and cooked through.
Enjoying Your Calzones
Once out of the oven, allow your cheesy jalapeño bacon calzones to cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed hot, paired with warmed pizza sauce for dipping. The gooey cheese, crispy bacon, and zesty jalapeños create an unforgettable flavor experience.
These calzones not only work as a delightful family dinner, but they can also be transformed into mini appetizers for game nights or parties. Simply divide your dough further to create bite-sized versions, and your guests will be raving about your culinary skills.
Final Considerations
Embracing the balance of fresh and pickled jalapeños in this recipe elevates its flavors, offering a spicy yet refreshing kick that tantalizes the taste buds. The addition of bacon adds another layer of richness, ensuring every bite is packed with savory goodness.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to these scrumptious cheesy jalapeño bacon calzones. Bon appétit!
