Description
Homemade Calzones Recipe
Ingredients:
1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 cup pizza sauce (optional, for dipping)
1/2 cup pepperoni slices or cooked sausage (optional)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 egg (for egg wash)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare Filling:
In a bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Add in pepperoni or sausage if using.
Assemble Calzones:
Roll out the pizza dough into 6-8 inch circles.
Spoon the filling onto one half of each circle, leaving a border.
Fold over and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
Add Egg Wash & Bake:
Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden crust.
Sprinkle with extra cheese and parsley if desired.
Bake for 15-18 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
Serve:
Let cool for a few minutes and serve with pizza sauce for dipping.
Crispy, cheesy, and delicious!
#HomemadeCalzones #CheesyGoodness #ComfortFood
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Fold in any optional meats.
2. Shape: Divide dough into 4 equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into an 8-inch circle.
3. Fill: Spoon 1/4 of the cheese mixture onto one half of each circle, leaving a 1-inch border. Avoid overfilling.
4. Seal: Fold the empty dough half over the filling. Crimp the edges firmly with your fingers, then press with a fork to ensure a tight seal.
5. Finish & Bake: Transfer calzones to the baking sheet. Cut 2-3 small slits in the top for steam. Brush with beaten egg wash. Bake for 15-18 minutes until deeply golden brown.
6. Rest: Let calzones cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your calzones with warm marinara or pizza sauce for dipping. For a complete meal, pair with a crisp green salad with Italian dressing or a bowl of minestrone soup. They are perfect for game day, a fun family dinner, or as a make-ahead lunch—simply reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
How-to Summary
Roll pizza dough into circles, fill one side with a cheesy ricotta mixture, fold, and seal. Brush with egg wash, bake at 425°F for 15-18 minutes until golden. Let cool briefly and serve with sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make calzones ahead of time? Yes. Assemble them, place on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
How do I prevent a soggy bottom? Ensure your filling isn’t too wet (drain ricotta if necessary) and use parchment paper. Preheating the baking sheet in the oven can also help create a crispier crust.
What other fillings can I use? Get creative! Sautéed mushrooms and spinach, cooked Italian sausage, ham and pineapple, or a blend of different cheeses all work wonderfully.
Why did my calzone burst open? This is usually due to overfilling or not sealing the edges tightly enough. Leave a good border, seal well, and don’t skip the steam vents on top.
Can I use this recipe for a single large calzone? Absolutely. Use the entire pound of dough, roll it into one large circle, fill, and bake. You will likely need to increase the baking time by 5-7 minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling: This is the top cause of leaks and bursts. Less is more.
- Not Sealing Properly: Press edges firmly and use the fork crimp for a double seal.
- Skipping the Egg Wash: The egg wash is crucial for that beautiful, golden-brown, professional-looking crust.
- Cutting Immediately: Letting the calzones rest allows the molten cheese filling to set slightly, preventing a messy eruption when you cut in.
Conclusion
Homemade calzones are a versatile and deeply satisfying meal that proves gourmet comfort food is within easy reach. By mastering the simple techniques of filling, sealing, and baking, you can create endless variations to suit any taste. Remember the key tips: seal tightly, vent the top, and let them rest. With this reliable recipe, you’re equipped to deliver hot, crispy, cheesy perfection straight from your own oven.