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Pizza Calzone Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 66 reviews

This homemade Pizza Calzone recipe features a delicious Italian sausage and cheese filling enclosed in a tender, crispy dough pocket. Made from scratch with a homemade yeast dough and a rich, flavorful tomato sauce with sausage and a blend of mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, and fresh basil, these calzones are perfect for a comforting meal or sharing with friends.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

  • 3 1/2 cups (420g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water (105-115°F)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing

For the Filling:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups (about 6 ounces) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in warm water. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy, confirming the yeast is active and ready for dough making.
  2. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add olive oil to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing with a spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the Dough: On a floured surface, knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Adjust flour or water as necessary to achieve the right consistency.
  4. First Rise: Lightly grease a bowl with olive oil. Place dough inside, turning to coat. Cover and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
  5. Cook the Sausage: While the dough rises, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook onion until softened (~5 minutes), add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
  6. Brown the Sausage: Add the sausage, break it up, and cook until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
  7. Simmer the Sauce: Stir in oregano and red pepper flakes if using. Add crushed tomatoes, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to thicken and develop flavors.
  8. Cool the Filling: Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly to avoid soggy dough during assembly.
  9. Combine the Cheeses: In a bowl, mix mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, and chopped fresh basil until well combined.
  10. Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  11. Divide the Dough: Punch down dough to release air. Turn onto floured surface and divide into 4 equal portions.
  12. Roll Out the Dough: Roll each piece into a 10-12 inch circle. Thinner dough will yield a crisper crust.
  13. Add the Filling: Spread about 1 cup of sausage mixture on one half of dough circle, leaving a 1-inch border. Top with 1 cup cheese mixture, careful not to overfill.
  14. Fold and Seal: Fold dough to form a half-moon. Pinch edges tightly and crimp with a fork for a secure seal and decorative touch.
  15. Egg Wash and Vent: Brush tops with beaten egg to achieve golden color. Cut a few small slits on top for steam to escape during baking.
  16. Bake: Place calzones on baking sheet and bake 20-25 minutes until golden brown and filling is heated through.
  17. Cool Slightly: Let calzones rest for a few minutes to let filling set before serving.
  18. Serve: Enjoy warm with marinara sauce for dipping or alongside a fresh salad.

Notes

  • Be sure the yeast is foamy before proceeding to ensure dough rises well.
  • Allow filling to cool slightly before assembling to prevent soggy dough.
  • Rolling dough thinner results in crispier calzone crusts.
  • Use a fork to crimp edges to ensure calzones stay sealed during baking.
  • Cutting slits in the dough allows steam to escape and prevents bursting.
  • Serve calzones warm for the best texture and flavor experience.

Keywords: Pizza calzone, Italian calzone, sausage calzone, homemade calzone, baked calzone recipe

Find it online: https://www.cheftara.com/pizza-calzone-recipe/