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!

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🥕 Ingredients (Serves 4–6):

For the Dough:

• 2 1/4 tsp Active Dry Yeast
• 1 1/2 cups Warm Water (about 110°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

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🍲 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 475°F (245°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.

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📦 Amazon Must-Haves to Help You Make the Perfect Calzone

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

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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!

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