Description
Calzone is a delicious Italian turnover filled with cheese, meats, and vegetables, offering a crispy, golden crust with a gooey, flavorful interior. Originating from Naples, this folded pizza is a versatile meal that can be customized with a variety of fillings. Whether baked or fried, calzones make for a satisfying lunch, dinner, or snack. They are perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or even a fun twist on traditional pizza night.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm water (110°F)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup cooked sausage or pepperoni (optional)
- ½ cup sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers (optional)
For Assembly:
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- ½ cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
Ingredient Highlights
- Pizza Dough: The base of any good calzone, homemade dough gives the best texture and flavor, but store-bought dough works too.
- Cheese Trio: A combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan provides a creamy, melty, and flavorful filling.
- Fillings: Traditional calzones include Italian meats like pepperoni or sausage, but vegetables like spinach and mushrooms add freshness.
- Egg Wash: Brushing with egg wash before baking gives the calzone a beautiful golden crust.
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let it Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling:
- Mix the Cheeses: In a bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
- Add Your Fillings: Mix in cooked sausage, pepperoni, or sautéed vegetables if using.
Shape and Fill the Calzones:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Divide and Roll: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle about ¼ inch thick.
- Fill: Spoon the cheese mixture onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a ½-inch border.
- Fold and Seal: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly and crimp with a fork or twist to seal.
Bake the Calzones:
- Brush with Egg Wash: Lightly brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake: Place calzones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let them cool slightly before serving with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 350-450 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 18g