Golden-Baked Homemade Calzones
Golden-Baked Homemade Calzones are the ultimate comfort food, bringing together the mouthwatering flavors of Italian sausage, pepperoni, and gooey cheese all wrapped in a golden, flaky crust. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner or a fun meal to share with friends, these calzones are sure to impress. Easy to make and customize, they are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Imagine biting into a warm, golden-baked calzone, the crust perfectly crisp and the filling a delightful mix of savory meats and creamy cheese. The best part? You can easily prepare these calzones at home, and they are far tastier than any takeout option. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and create some satisfying Golden-Baked Homemade Calzones!
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because it combines a few key elements that create a perfect calzone. The filling is a delightful blend of flavors, featuring mild Italian sausage and pepperoni, which is balanced by the creaminess of ricotta and the meltiness of mozzarella. Using homemade pizza dough gives you the flexibility to control the texture and flavor of the crust, ensuring it’s just right. The addition of Italian seasoning brings a burst of herby flavor that ties everything together. Each calzone is golden-baked to perfection, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite.
The Essentials
To make Golden-Baked Homemade Calzones, you will need the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces mild Italian sausage: Provides a savory base with just the right amount of spice.
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni: Adds a classic pizza flavor that everyone loves.
- 1 Homemade Pizza Dough or store-bought: The foundation of your calzone; homemade is preferred for the best texture.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Creamy and rich, it adds a delightful texture to the filling.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey, melty cheese that binds everything together.
- 1 egg: Used for an egg wash to give the calzones a beautiful golden color.
- 1 tablespoon water: Combined with the egg for the wash.
- 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese: Adds an extra layer of flavor and richness.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that enhances the overall taste.
Equipment at a Glance
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the filling ingredients.
- Rolling Pin: To roll out the pizza dough into rounds.
- Baking Sheet: To place the calzones on for baking.
- Pastry Brush: For applying the egg wash.
- Oven: To bake the calzones until golden and bubbly.
Golden-Baked Homemade Calzones — Do This Next
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, crumble and cook the mild Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease and remove from heat. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, sliced pepperoni, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Pizza Dough
If you are using homemade pizza dough, prepare it according to your favorite recipe. If using store-bought dough, allow it to come to room temperature before rolling it out. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a circle about 8 inches in diameter.
Step 3: Fill the Calzones
Spoon a generous amount of the filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edge. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the calzone to burst during baking.
Step 4: Seal the Calzones
Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal. For an extra secure seal, you can crimp the edges with a fork.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the calzones with the egg wash and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Bake
Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
Step 7: Serve
Once baked, remove the calzones from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.
Texture-Safe Substitutions
If you need to make some substitutions for the filling or dough, consider the following options:
- Ground turkey or chicken: Use in place of Italian sausage for a leaner option.
- Vegetarian sausage: A great alternative for those avoiding meat.
- Spinach and feta: A delicious vegetarian filling option.
- Gluten-free pizza dough: Perfect for gluten-sensitive diets.
Cook’s Commentary
- Feel free to get creative with the fillings! You can add chopped vegetables, different cheeses, or even switch up the meats.
- For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for a little heat.
- These calzones are great for meal prep; you can make a larger batch and enjoy them throughout the week.
- Don’t hesitate to experiment with dipping sauces. Pesto or a creamy garlic sauce can elevate your calzone experience.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
Leftover calzones can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap each calzone tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them for a quicker option, but the oven will keep the crust crispier.
Handy Q&A
Can I make the calzone filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the calzones.
What can I serve with calzones?
Calzones pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, garlic bread, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with a variety of dipping sauces for added flavor.
How do I know when my calzones are done baking?
Calzones are done when they are golden brown on the outside and have puffed up. You can also tap the bottom; it should sound hollow when fully cooked.
Can I use different types of cheese in my calzones?
Yes! Feel free to mix and match cheeses such as provolone, cheddar, or even goat cheese for a unique flavor profile.
Quick Weeknight Wins
- Quick Pizza Dough – Fast and easy dough recipe.
- 5-Ingredient Pasta Sauce – A simple sauce to accompany your calzones.
- Vegan Pizza Dough – A plant-based dough alternative.
- Simple Margherita Pizza – A classic pizza recipe for inspiration.
See You at the Table
Your journey to creating the perfect Golden-Baked Homemade Calzones is just a recipe away! Gather your friends and family, and enjoy the deliciousness that comes from making these delightful calzones. Whether you stick to the classic filling or experiment with your own twists, these calzones are sure to become a favorite in your home. Remember, the joy of cooking comes from sharing your creations with others. So, roll up your sleeves, get in the kitchen, and enjoy the process of making these irresistible Golden-Baked Homemade Calzones!
Golden-Baked Homemade Calzones
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a skillet over medium heat, crumble and cook the mild Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease and remove from heat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, sliced pepperoni, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined and set aside.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a circle about 8 inches in diameter.
- Spoon a generous amount of the filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edge.
- Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the calzones with the egg wash and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
- Once baked, remove the calzones from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.
Notes
- Feel free to get creative with the fillings! Add chopped vegetables or different cheeses.
- For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the filling.
- These calzones are great for meal prep; make a larger batch to enjoy throughout the week.
