Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Calzone

Imagine sinking your teeth into a golden, flaky calzone that’s bursting with the creamy richness of mac ‘n’ cheese and the savory crunch of crispy bacon. This recipe takes two beloved comfort foods—mac ‘n’ cheese and calzones—and combines them into a single, mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a unique weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing game-day snack, or a fun twist on traditional Italian fare, this Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Calzone has you covered. The gooey cheese, smoky bacon, and tender pasta are all wrapped up in a doughy embrace, making every bite an explosion of flavor. Best of all, it’s easy to make and can be customized with your favorite cheeses or even a hint of spice. Let’s dive into how you can create this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen!

Ingredients

• For the Mac ‘n’ Cheese:
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Calzone:
  • 1 lb pizza dough
  • 8 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (extra for topping)
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)

Directions

1. Prepare the Mac ‘n’ Cheese: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, stir in the flour, and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat, add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan, and stir until the cheese is fully melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Assemble the Calzone: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a large circle. Spread the mac ‘n’ cheese over half of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and extra mozzarella over the mac ‘n’ cheese. Fold the dough over to cover the filling and crimp the edges to seal. Brush the top with egg wash and sprinkle a little extra cheese if desired.
3. Bake: Transfer the calzone to a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy. Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

How to Prepare

The preparation of this Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Calzone involves a few key steps, but the process is straightforward and worth every moment. First, you’ll whip up a batch of creamy mac ‘n’ cheese, which forms the heart of the filling. The key to a rich, velvety sauce is creating a roux with butter and flour, then slowly adding milk before melting in the cheeses. Once the mac ‘n’ cheese is ready, it’s combined with crispy bacon inside a rolled-out pizza dough. The dough is folded over, sealed, and baked to perfection, creating a calzone with a gooey, cheesy center and a crispy, golden exterior.

Preparation Time

• Mac ‘n’ Cheese Preparation: 20 minutes
• Calzone Assembly and Baking: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes

Servings

• Serves: 4

FAQs

Q1: Can I use store-bought mac ‘n’ cheese for this recipe?
A: Yes, if you’re short on time, store-bought mac ‘n’ cheese can be used as a shortcut. However, homemade provides a richer flavor.

Q2: Can I make this calzone ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the mac ‘n’ cheese and even assemble the calzone a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and bake when ready to serve.

Q3: What other fillings can I add to the calzone?
A: Feel free to add ingredients like sautéed onions, mushrooms, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Q4: Can I freeze the calzone?
A: Yes, you can freeze the unbaked calzone. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

Q5: What sides pair well with this calzone?
A: A fresh green salad or a side of marinara sauce for dipping are great options to complement the rich flavors of the calzone.

Conclusion

The Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Calzone is the ultimate fusion of two comfort food favorites, bringing together the best of both worlds in a single, satisfying dish. The combination of creamy, cheesy pasta and crispy bacon, all encased in a golden, crunchy crust, is nothing short of irresistible. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, impressing guests, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to be a hit. And with its versatile filling options, you can customize the calzone to suit your personal taste preferences. So, next time you’re in the mood for something indulgent and comforting, give this Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheese Calzone a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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