Ah, cheesesteak calzone—where classic comfort meets hands-on fun. If you've ever stood in line at a Philly food truck, inhaling the fragrance of sizzling steak, grilled onions, and melted cheese, you’re in good company.
This dish marries all those beloved cheesesteak flavors within a golden crust, making it all the more tempting. It’s great for family dinners, game nights, or a simple indulgence at home. I’ve prepared countless meals in my kitchen, but there’s something special about taking the best parts of a cheesesteak and wrapping them in dough.
Stick around, and I’ll take you through how to make your own. You may just find it becomes a staple in your home!
At its core, a cheesesteak calzone is a fun twist on the traditional Philly cheesesteak sandwich. It consists of thinly sliced steak, sautéed vegetables, and gooey cheese, all enveloped in a soft, golden pizza dough.
Imagine breaking open that crisp crust to reveal warm, melty goodness hidden within. It’s a dish that embodies comfort food while letting you get creative in the kitchen. Perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself - I won’t judge!
When you take your first bite of a cheesesteak calzone, you’ll notice an explosion of flavors. The sweet caramelization of onions mingles with the umami richness of the steak. Provolone cheese adds that delightful stretch and creaminess, while fresh mushrooms contribute an earthy note.
A splash of balsamic vinegar lifts everything, balancing the richness beautifully. If you choose to sprinkle in some red pepper flakes, it’ll bring a cozy warmth without overwhelming the dish. The harmony of these ingredients makes every bite worth savoring, and trust me, they play together well.
You might wonder why this dish deserves a spot on your dining table. First, it’s immensely satisfying. Seriously, you won’t leave the table hungry. Second, it’s customizable. Not a fan of green peppers? Swap them out! Prefer a different cheese? Go for it!
Finally, it’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for guests. You get that perfect mix of ease and elegance. Plus, who doesn’t love a calzone? They’re like little pockets of joy!
Here’s what you need to make a cheesesteak calzone that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Start by heating that olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the thinly sliced steak. Sear it briefly until it's browned, about 2 to 3 minutes for a medium-rare result.
Next, add in the onions, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Stir them around and let everything cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the veggies are tender. Don’t forget the minced garlic; toss it in and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Drizzle in the balsamic vinegar and season with salt and pepper.
Now, time to get the oven roaring. Preheat it to 400°F (200°C). This way, once we assemble the calzones, we can pop them right in for that gorgeous golden finish.
While the oven heats up, roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface. You want it about 1/4 inch thick. Using a round cutter or a large bowl, cut out circles (about 6-8 inches in diameter). You can typically get 4 to 6 circles per tube.
Here’s where it gets fun! Place a generous scoop of your cheesy steak mixture onto one half of each dough circle. Don’t be shy! Now sprinkle shredded provolone cheese generously over the top. Fold the other half over to create a pocket.
Using your fingers or a fork, crimp the edges to seal them tightly. Transfer the calzones onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper sprinkled with cornmeal for a crisp base.
Whisk the egg and water in a small bowl. Brush this egg wash over the calzones. This little trick gives them that beautiful golden color once they’re done baking. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and a dusting of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Slide those pockets of goodness into your preheated oven and let them bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re deeply golden brown.
Once they’re out of the oven, let them sit for a few minutes. Then serve with marinara sauce for dipping and, if you want to add a touch of greenery, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top!
If you find yourself with leftovers (which isn’t likely), here’s how to store them:
Sometimes, things don’t go as planned during shopping or cooking. Don’t sweat it! Here are a few alternatives you can consider:
Making cheesesteak calzones is more than just dinner; it’s an experience. From shopping for fresh ingredients to assembling those delightful pockets of flavor, each step is filled with joy.
Whether you follow the recipe to a tee or let your culinary creativity flow, I hope this dish becomes a favorite in your home. It’s easy, satisfying, and will impress anyone who takes a bite. So go ahead: roll up your sleeves, embrace the mess, and create something truly delicious. You’ll be glad you did!
Before diving into the juicy details of making a cheesesteak calzone, let's chat about what pairs perfectly with this delectable dish. Think crunchy and refreshing salads or perhaps a side of crispy, seasoned fries.
A bright Italian salad with fresh greens, tomatoes, and olives provides a satisfying crunch, complementing the rich, cheesy goodness of the calzone. Or, if you're feeling indulgent, serve it with sweet potato fries seasoned with paprika and garlic powder for that extra kick.
And let's not forget about beverages! A crisp lager or a fruity Italian red wine can accentuate the savory flavors of the calzone. If you're in the mood for something non-alcoholic, a sparkling lemon soda completes the culinary experience beautifully. So, grab your calzone and a side dish, and let’s get into the fun stuff!
Start by heating that olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the thinly sliced steak. Sear it briefly until it's browned, about 2 to 3 minutes for a medium-rare result.
Next, add in the onions, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Stir them around and let everything cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the veggies are tender. Don’t forget the minced garlic; toss it in and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Drizzle in the balsamic vinegar and season with salt and pepper.
Here’s where it gets fun! Place a generous scoop of your cheesy steak mixture onto one half of each dough circle. Don’t be shy! Now sprinkle shredded provolone cheese generously over the top. Fold the other half over to create a pocket.
Using your fingers or a fork, crimp the edges to seal them tightly. Transfer the calzones onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper sprinkled with cornmeal for a crisp base.
Whisk the egg and water in a small bowl. Brush this egg wash over the calzones. This little trick gives them that beautiful golden color once they’re done baking. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and a dusting of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Slide those pockets of goodness into your preheated oven and let them bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re deeply golden brown.
Servings 6
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
I’m Irene Adkins, a registered dietitian and creator of Delicious Meal Ideas. Growing up in Syracuse, NY, I developed a passion for simple, flavorful cooking in my grandmother’s kitchen. Through my blog, I share easy, healthy recipes that bring joy to everyday meals, making home cooking fun and accessible for everyone.