Wondering how to reheat calzone? I’ve tested 6 different methods so you can choose which one is right for you. This article discusses how to properly store, freeze, and reheat calzone.
It’s always a fun week when you can make and eat a bunch of calzone for research purposes.
Of course, I technically knew how to reheat a calzone. But, I wanted to determine the best method for reheating calzone. And what better way to do that than a side-by-side comparison?
In preparation for this experiment, I made a couple of spinach and cheese calzones. Then, I cut them up and stored them in my refrigerator for 24 hours or so. I also froze a piece of calzone so I could test reheating it from frozen in the oven.
In the end, I decided that the oven is the best method for reheating a calzone. However, the other methods also have their pros and cons. So, if you’re trying to determine the best way to reheat your leftover calzone, keep reading to learn everything you need to know.
>> Need a tasty homemade calzone recipe? Give my Eggplant Parmesan Calzone recipe a try!
Some links throughout this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. If you’re willing to use them, it helps fund this site and allows me to continue to provide content. I appreciate your support!
Table of Contents -
What is the Best Way to Reheat Calzone?
How to Reheat Calzone
Oven
Toaster Oven
Skillet
Microwave
Air Fryer
Gas Grill
How Long Does Calzone Last?
How to Store Leftover Calzone
Can You Freeze Calzone?
How to Thaw Calzone
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Let’s Connect!
Related Articles
What is the Best Way to Reheat Calzone?
Calzone makes great leftovers and is easy to reheat. Crispiness, freshness, convenience, and time are all factors to consider when choosing which method is best to reheat your calzone.
After testing several reheating methods, I believe that the oven is the best way to reheat calzone.
Reheating calzone in the oven leads to a cheesy, fresh-tasting, crispy calzone in just a few minutes. Plus, it’s an easy way to reheat a large amount of leftover calzone. Additionally, you can reheat calzone directly from frozen in the oven.
How to Reheat Calzone
Here are 6 tested methods for reheating leftover calzone.
Oven
The oven was by far my favorite method for reheating calzone. Not only did the crust get super crispy, but the inside was beautifully melted and evenly warmed through. In my opinion, the oven-reheated calzone tasted better than the day it was made.
Additionally, the oven is the best method for reheating frozen calzone. Reheating a calzone from frozen in the oven only takes about 10 minutes longer than a refrigerated calzone.
All things considered, the oven is my go-to method for reheating leftover calzone.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Evenly warmed through | Takes longer than other methods |
| Melted interior | Not energy-efficient for smaller quantities |
| Crispy exterior | |
| Good for large quantities | |
| Can reheat from frozen |
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
- Evenly distribute the calzone pieces on the prepared baking sheet.
- Fridge: Warm calzone pieces for 8-10 minutes.
- Freezer: Warm calzone pieces for 18-20 minutes.
Toaster Oven
If you don’t want to heat up your whole oven for one or two pieces of calzone, a toaster oven is a great option. Similar to the oven method, the toaster oven results in a crispy crust and evenly melted interior.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Evenly warmed through | Crust can burn quickly |
| Melted cheese | Not good for larger quantities |
| Crispy exterior | |
| Good for smaller quantities |
Instructions
- Preheat the toaster oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Line the toaster oven tray with aluminum foil.
- Heat for 8-10 minutes or until fully warmed through.
Quick Tip: If the crust is beginning to burn before the interior is warmed through, cover the calzone with a piece of aluminum foil.
Skillet
Using the stovetop to reheat calzone was one of my least favorite methods.
While the outer crust warmed through and crisped up nicely, the interior stayed cold. I found it tricky to fully warm through the center of the calzone before the exterior began to overcook.
Steaming the calzone with a little water seemed to help melt the cheese. But overall, I was not impressed with this method and probably wouldn’t use it unless necessary.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Crispy exterior | Interior is hard to warm through |
| Energy-efficient | Bread can end up soggy if too much water is used |
| Good for reheating a few pieces of calzone at a time |
Instructions
- Heat one teaspoon of olive oil or butter in a seasoned cast iron skillet or non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Place the pieces of calzone in a single layer in the frying pan and cover with a lid.
- Cook the calzone for 2 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add ½ to 1 tablespoon of water to the skillet and quickly re-cover it with the lid to create steam. Allow the calzone to cook until the middle is fully warmed through.
Microwave
If you’re really short on time or have no other options, the microwave can be used to reheat calzone in a pinch.
However, I will say that this method results in a far inferior calzone than any of the other methods. The crust was soft and became chewy after cooling off a bit. And while the interior was warmed through, the cheese had melted out onto the plate in the microwave.
But, if you’re in a rush and only need to reheat one or two pieces of calzone, the microwave is an okay choice.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Quick and convenient | Soft and soggy |
| Good for small quantities | Chewy crust |
| May lose some cheese if it oozes out |
Instructions
- Place a piece of leftover calzone on a microwave-safe dish.
- Cover the calzone with a damp paper towel.
- Microwave on half-power (50%) for 45-60 seconds.
- If not fully warmed through, continue microwaving on half-power in 30-second intervals.
Air Fryer
I love using my air fryer as a quick and convenient way to reheat leftovers when I don’t want to heat up my oven. If you have an air fryer, you might already be aware of its ability to bring life back to leftovers. And calzone is no different.
Reheating calzone in the air fryer gives it a crispy, slightly chewy crust with a warm, melted interior. You can reheat several pieces of calzone at a time in the air fryer and it only takes a few minutes.
The air fryer method was my second favorite after the oven. It’s quick, convenient, and does a good job of getting the crust nice and crispy. So, if you have an air fryer, definitely give this method a try.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Quick | Slightly chewy crust |
| Energy-efficient | Not good for large quantities |
| Crispy crust | |
| Warm, evenly melted interior | |
| Good for reheating a few pieces |
Instructions
- Place calzone pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Turn the air fryer on and set it to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Heat the calzone for 4-5 minutes or until fully warmed through.
Gas Grill
While not your typical method for reheating leftovers, a gas grill is another great option for reheating calzone. I would consider using a gas grill to reheat calzone if you’re already cooking other food on the grill or if you’re experiencing a power outage.
A gas grill reheats calzone similarly to an oven. The crust gets super crispy and the interior reheats evenly. I used the top rack of my grill to avoid placing the calzone directly over the flame.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Crispy crust | Temperature of the grill needs to be monitored |
| Melted, evenly warmed through interior | Not convenient in the winter or if you’re not already using the grill |
| Good for large quantities | |
| Perfect if you’re already using the grill or experiencing a power outage |
Instructions
- Preheat your grill over high heat until it reaches 450-500 degrees Fahrenheit. This is to account for heat loss when you open the lid.
- Place the calzone onto a piece of aluminum foil and put it on the top rack of the grill.
- Quickly close the lid and turn the burners to medium-low. You want the grill to maintain a temperature between 400-425 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Heat calzone for 8-10 minutes or until fully heated throughout.
Note: I tested this method when it was 35 degrees Fahrenheit outside. Your grill may run hotter and reheat the calzone more quickly if it’s warmer outside.
How Long Does Calzone Last?
Calzones are an excellent make-ahead meal. They make great grab-and-go lunches or quick and easy weeknight dinners. How long a calzone lasts depends on how it’s stored.
Since many calzone recipes contain cheese, leftover calzone will typically only last for a few days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, calzone can be kept in the freezer.
How to Store Leftover Calzone
Here is how to properly store leftover calzone.
- Room Temperature- If serving calzone at a party, keep in mind that it can only be left at room temperature for a maximum of 2 hours. Properly storing leftovers prevents the growth of harmful bacteria that can make you sick.
- Refrigerator- Wrap leftover calzone tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
- Freezer- Store leftover calzone in a freezer-safe plastic bag or container in the freezer for 1 to 2 months.
Can You Freeze Calzone?
Yes, storing calzone in the freezer is a great way to save leftovers that you won’t be able to eat within a few days. When I make calzones, I often make an extra one to store in the freezer for nights I don’t feel like cooking.
Follow these steps to properly freeze your leftover calzone:
- Allow the calzone to cool completely.
- Cut the calzone into individual or family-sized portions.
- Wrap the pieces of calzone tightly in plastic wrap.
- Store the wrapped calzone in a freezer bag or container, or double-wrap it in aluminum foil.
- Label and date the calzone.
- Store it in the freezer for up to 2 months.
How to Thaw Calzone
If you plan on enjoying your leftover calzone later in the week, it’s best to plan ahead and thaw it in the refrigerator. Thawing calzone in the refrigerator is as simple as transferring it from the freezer to the refrigerator approximately 24 hours before you want to eat it.
However, if you’re forgetful or just need a last-minute dinner, you can thaw and reheat frozen calzone in the oven just as easily. It takes about 20 minutes in a 400 degree Fahrenheit oven to fully reheat a calzone directly from the freezer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you reheat calzone the next day?
Yes, absolutely! In fact, I prefer my calzone reheated in the oven the next day. It’s so crispy and delicious. Calzone can safely be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Do you eat calzones hot or cold?
Calzones are typically enjoyed hot or warm with a dipping sauce. However, leftover calzone, just like leftover pizza, can be enjoyed cold in front of the refrigerator at 1 A.M.
How do you keep calzones from getting soggy?
The best way to prevent calzones from getting soggy is to reheat them in the oven, in the air fryer, or on the grill. Calzones reheated in the microwave or in a skillet are more likely to end up soggy.
What to serve with calzone?
Calzones are rich and filling so I like to pair them with a light side dish, such as a leafy green salad, roasted vegetables, steamed vegetables, or a brothy soup. Garlic bread, fries, onion rings, pasta, and meatballs are also tasty side dishes to serve with a calzone.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many options to consider when reheating your leftover calzone. The best method will depend on how many pieces of calzone you want to reheat, how much time you have, and your preference for a crispy exterior and well-melted interior.
Overall, I prefer the oven for reheating my leftover calzone with the air fryer being a close second. And I recommend only using the microwave as a last resort.
Let’s Connect!
Be sure to leave a comment below if you have any questions. You can also connect with me onInstagram,Facebook,Pinterest, or via email at[emailprotected].
Related Articles
- How to Reheat Cornbread
FAQs
What is the best way to reheat a calzone? ›
It recommends preheating the oven to 400 degrees F. Then place the calzone on a baking sheet and spritz it with cooking oil. The oil provides a golden, crispy crust when it bakes. Bake the pizza pocket for 20 minutes if refrigerated and up to 30 minutes if frozen.
How long does it take to reheat a calzone? ›- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Take the calzone out of the fridge and place it on a baking sheet on a tray.
- Next, spritz some oil on the calzone. ...
- Place the calzone in the oven and allow it to bake for about 20 minutes.
- Start by preheating your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Then, place the calzone in the air fryer basket and cook for about 5 minutes, or until heated through.
- If you find that the calzone is not heated through after 5 minutes, you can cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Spray the inside of the air fryer basket with a non-stick cooking spray. Place the frozen calzone in the air fryer basket and cook at 350F for 15 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!
How do you keep calzone from getting soggy? ›The best way to prevent calzones from getting soggy is to reheat them in the oven, in the air fryer, or on the grill. Calzones reheated in the microwave or in a skillet are more likely to end up soggy. What to serve with calzone?
How do you keep calzones from exploding? ›Be sure to maintain an even thickness of the dough, as the calzone will burst if the dough is too thin. If the dough shrinks back and is difficult to roll, let it rest for 5 minutes and try again. Repeat with the remaining pieces of dough.
Should I flip a calzone in the oven? ›Place your shaped calzone on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes. Then, turn the oven down to 450°F (230°C), rotate the pan 180°, and bake until the exterior crust is a deep golden brown, about 10 to 15 minutes more.
Do you have to flip a calzone in the oven? ›Place the two pastries in the oven for 10 to 12 minutes, then rotate the pan and cook for another 10 minutes. The crust should appear a light golden brown. Remove from oven and serve hot.
How do you reheat pizza without getting soggy? ›- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Don't add oil – the oil from the pizza will be enough to crisp the crust.
- Place a pizza slice in the pan. ...
- Sprinkle a few drops of water in the pan, avoiding the slice itself. ...
- Remove the pan from the heat, cool, and enjoy your perfect slice.
It is absolutely safe to use aluminum foil in your air fryer. In fact, it can make cooking with the air fryer easier.
How do you reheat pizza in an air fryer to make it crispy? ›
Place foil or perforated parchment sheet to base on air fryer basket, rack or tray. Place the pizza on top. If needed, lightly spray the top of pizza so that the toppings don't burn or dry out (optional). Air Fry at 360°F/180°C for 3-6 minutes or until cooked to your desired crispness.
What is the best temperature to reheat pizza in an air fryer? ›Air fry the pizza at about 350˚ and start by heating for three minutes before checking on the progress. Thin slices of pizza will reheat faster than doughier slices (like, say, a deep-dish pizza). If you think the crust could be crispier, air fry for another minute before checking again.
How long do you cook a frozen calzone? ›Microwave from frozen or thawed, until warm. Unbaked calzones: place prepared calzones on a baking sheet and flash freeze for 1 hour. Transfer partially frozen calzones to a freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 400 degrees for 30-45 minute, or until warmed through and golden.
How long is a calzone good for in the fridge? ›According to the FDA Food Code, all perishable foods that are opened or prepared should be thrown out after 7 days, maximum. No leftovers should survive in your fridge for longer than that.
How do you reheat a Little Caesars calzone? ›Yes, you can reheat frozen Little Caesars pizza directly, but it's not recommended. The best way to reheat frozen pizza is to preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, place the pizza on an oven-safe baking sheet, and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Should calzones have sauce inside? ›Calzones' fillings do not include sauce; marinara is served on the side for dipping. Stromboli portions can also be dipped, but they can also be baked with the sauce inside.
Why do you cut slits in calzone? ›Cut 3 slits in the top of the calzone to help it vent during the cooking process. Place calzone on a tray or stone bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
How do you know when a calzone is done? ›Place the calzone side by side on a floured baking sheet, (use 2 if needed), pizza stone or granite slab. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes on the bottom of the preheated oven until the dough is puffed up and golden on top and the filling is hot.
How do you reheat pizza without it getting hard? ›- Place slices of cold pizza on a rimmed baking sheet.
- Cover the sheet tightly with aluminum foil.
- Place the sheet on the lowest rack of a cold oven.
- Set the oven temperature to 275 degrees.
- Let the pizza warm until bottom is crisp and cheese has melted, 25 to 30 minutes.