How to Make the Perfect Calzone: A Step-by-Step Guide

January 16, 2025

Calzones are a delicious, stuffed Italian delight that combines the crispy, golden crust of a pizza with the mouth-watering fillings of your choice. Whether you want a meat-filled calzone or a cheesy vegetarian version, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into making the perfect calzone!

How to Make the Perfect Calzone: A Step-by-Step Guide
πŸ₯• Ingredients (Serves 4–6):

For the Dough:

  • 2 1/4 tsp Active Dry Yeast
  • 1 1/2 cups Warm Water (about 110Β°F)
  • 3 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour (plus more for dusting)
  • 1 1/2 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Sugar

For the Filling:

  • 1 1/2 cups Ricotta Cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups Mozzarella Cheese (shredded)
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
  • 1/2 cup Italian Sausage (cooked and crumbled)
  • 1/4 cup Pepperoni (sliced)
  • 1/2 cup Spinach (fresh, chopped)
  • 1/4 cup Bell Pepper (diced)
  • 1/4 cup Onion (diced)
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Italian Seasoning
  • Salt and Pepper to taste

For the Tomato Sauce (Optional):

  • 1 cup Marinara Sauce

🍲 Instructions:

Make the Dough: Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy. In a larger bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until it forms a dough, then knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise for 1 hour.

Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, mix together the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian sausage, pepperoni, spinach, bell pepper, onion, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Make sure everything is well combined.

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475Β°F (245Β°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.

Assemble the Calzones: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it into a circle about 6-8 inches in diameter. Spoon the filling onto one half of each circle, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. Fold the other half over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Seal the edges by pressing down with a fork or pinching the dough together.

Bake the Calzones: Place the calzones on the prepared baking sheet. Optionally, you can cut a small slit in the top of each to allow steam to escape. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the calzones are golden brown and crisp.

Serve: Let the calzones cool for a few minutes before serving. If you’d like, serve with marinara sauce for dipping.

πŸ“¦ Amazon Must-Haves to Help You Make the Perfect Calzone

  • πŸ• Pizza Stone – Achieve that crispy, golden crust just like your favorite pizzeria.
  • 🍴 Pizza Cutter – Get clean, effortless slices every time.
  • πŸ§€ Ricotta Cheese – The creamy, authentic base of a classic calzone filling.
  • πŸ§€ Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully for that gooey, cheesy center.
  • πŸ₯„ Mixing Bowls – Great for preparing and combining your delicious fillings.
  • πŸ• Pizza Peel – Makes transferring calzones in and out of the oven safe and simple.

With these tools and this simple, delicious recipe, you’re ready to make your own perfect calzone from home. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to please!