Calzones are delicious, folded pizza pockets filled with cheese, meats, and vegetables. Here’s a classic calzone recipe for you:
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cooked Italian sausage or pepperoni (optional)
- 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Olive oil, for brushing
- Marinara sauce, for serving
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Dough: Add olive oil, salt, and 3 1/2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
- Knead Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Rise Dough: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- Mix Cheeses: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Add Fillings: Stir in cooked Italian sausage or pepperoni and sautéed vegetables, if using.
3. Assemble the Calzones:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Divide Dough: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 4 equal pieces.
- Roll Dough: On a floured surface, roll each piece into a 10-inch circle.
- Add Filling: Place a generous amount of filling on one half of each dough circle, leaving a 1-inch border around the edge.
- Fold and Seal: Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together and crimp with a fork to seal.
4. Bake the Calzones:
- Egg Wash: Brush the top of each calzone with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake: Place the calzones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
5. Serve:
- Let the calzones cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Enjoy your homemade calzones!