what’s the difference between a calzone and a stromboli?
The main difference between a calzone and a stromboli is their shape and preparation. A calzone is a crescent-shaped, folded pizza filled with cheese, meat, and vegetables, often served as an individual portion with sauce on the side.
In contrast, a stromboli is a rolled log of dough filled with similar ingredients, cut into portions, and usually with sauce inside or on the side. Both are baked, but their origins and serving styles differ.
Stromboli vs. Calzone
Two delicious cousins of pizza
Pizza lovers often find themselves at a crossroads when it comes to choosing between two popular Italian-inspired dishes: stromboli and calzone. These folded or rolled light pizza ingredients take pizza ingredients to the next level, offering new textures and flavors.
While they share similarities, their differences are equally compelling. This article explores what they are, where to eat them, how to make them, and their versatility, especially for occasions like children’s birthday parties.
What is Stromboli?
Stromboli
Stromboli is a rolled, oven-baked dish that originated in Italian-American cuisine. It is often compared to a rolled-up pizza. A flat piece of pizza dough is topped with meat, cheese, and sometimes vegetables, then tightly rolled, sealed, and baked until golden brown.
Its name comes from the Italian island of Stromboli, although the dish itself is an American creation.
Common fillings for Stromboli include:
Cheese: Mozzarella is a great choice for its melty texture.
Meat: Pepperoni, salami, ham, or sausage are common.
Toppings: Spinach, roasted peppers, or other vegetables can also be added.
Stromboli is sliced after baking, making it great for sharing, and is often served with marinara sauce for dipping.
What is a calzone?
calzone
A calzone is a traditional Italian dish that originated in Naples. It is essentially a folded pizza, shaped like a crescent or turnover, with the edges sealed shut. Unlike stromboli, calzones are usually single-serving, making them ideal for personal meals.
Calzone fillings typically include:
Cheese: A mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan is common.
Meat: Ham, salami, or sausage.
Toppings: Vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms may be added.
Calzones are served hot, often with marinara or tomato sauce for dipping. They are a popular takeaway food, especially in Italy.
Where to eat stromboli and calzones?
These dishes are widely available in Italian-American restaurants, pizzerias, and bakeries.
In Italy: Calzones are part of traditional Italian cuisine and can be found in most pizzerias.
In the United States: Stromboli is a staple in Italian-American establishments, especially in New York and Philadelphia. Many restaurants and food trucks serve stromboli as a snack or meal.
Fast food chains: Some pizza chains offer their own versions of calzones and stromboli, which are often sold as pizza turnovers or rolls.
Homemade versions: These dishes are becoming increasingly popular to make at home thanks to their simple ingredients and easy preparation.
How to Make Stromboli at Home?
How to Make a Stromboli
Ingredients:
Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup marinara or pizza sauce (optional, for dipping)
1 cup chopped pepperoni, salami, or ham
1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions:
Prepare the dough: Roll the pizza dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface.
Add the fillings: Spread a layer of shredded mozzarella, followed by the meat, leaving a one-inch border all around. Sprinkle Italian seasoning on top.
Roll the stromboli: Starting at one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch to seal the seams and ends.
Brush and bake: Brush the log with egg wash and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Slice and serve: Let the stromboli cool slightly before cutting into portions. Serve with marinara sauce on the side.
How to Make Calzones at Home?
How to Make a Calzone
Ingredients:
Pizza Dough (Store-Bought or Homemade)
1 Cup Ricotta Cheese
1 Cup Shredded Mozzarella
½ Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
1 Cup Cooked Sausage or Ham
1 Tbsp Dried Oregano
1 Egg (For Egg Wash)
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough: Roll the pizza dough into a circle or oval.
Add the Fillings: Spread ricotta cheese over half of the dough, leaving a border. Add the mozzarella, Parmesan, and cooked meat. Sprinkle oregano on top.
Fold and Seal: Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges together firmly to seal and crimp them with a fork.
Brush and bake: Brush the top with egg wash and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Serve: Serve hot with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Easy to Make at Home
Both Stromboli and Calzone are easy to make at home, requiring a basic pizza dough and a custom filling. They are beginner-friendly, especially if you use store-bought dough.
Stromboli are a bit easier because they don’t require the precise sealing that calzones do. Both can be made in under an hour, making them perfect for a quick meal or a party snack.
Serving at birthday parties of children
Both Stromboli and Calzones are great choices for kids’ birthday parties:
Smaller versions
Make smaller, individual-sized stromboli or calzones so kids can easily handle them.
Customizable fillings
Offer a “build your own” station where kids can choose their favorite toppings and fillings.
Dipping sauces
Provide a variety of dipping sauces, such as marinara, ranch, or garlic butter, for added fun.
Easy to Eat
Both dishes are less messy than traditional pizza, making them easy to serve at parties.
Conclusion
Stromboli and calzones are popular dishes that bring the flavors of pizza to new, creative forms. While Stromboli offers a rolled, shareable option, Calzone provides a personal, crescent-shaped meal. Both are versatile, easy to make at home, and perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to kids’ birthday parties.
With their delicious fillings and customizable nature, these dishes are a sure hit with pizza lovers everywhere. Whether you cook a Stromboli to share or fold a calzone for yourself, you’re in for a delicious, indulgent experience!