Description
Learn how to make delicious homemade calzones with a golden, crispy crust and melty cheese filling. Perfect for dinner or as an appetizer!
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil, plus more for brushing
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup marinara sauce, plus more for dipping
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
- Add olive oil and warm water. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Meanwhile, mix mozzarella, ricotta, parmesan, spinach, bell peppers, and seasonings in a bowl.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide into 6 equal portions.
- Roll each portion into a 7-inch circle on a floured surface.
- Spread 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce on half of each circle, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
- Top sauce with about 1/3 cup of the cheese mixture.
- Fold the dough over the filling and pinch edges firmly to seal.
- Transfer calzones to the prepared baking sheet, brush with olive oil, and cut a small slit in the top of each to vent.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, until golden brown.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving with extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- You can customize the filling with your favorite pizza toppings.
- For a meat version, add cooked Italian sausage or pepperoni to the filling.
- The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
- Leftover calzones can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 calzone
- Calories: 420
Keywords: calzones, homemade calzones, appetizers, Italian food, pizza pocket
