Homemade Pizza Calzones are the ultimate comfort food, delivering all the flavors of pizza tucked neatly into a golden, handheld pocket. With melty mozzarella, creamy ricotta, and savory parmesan sealed inside a warm crust, every bite feels indulgent yet perfectly balanced. Plus, they’re versatile enough to fill with your favorite meats or vegetables, making them a family-friendly favorite.
What makes calzones so fun is their history—originating in Naples, Italy, they were created as a “walkable pizza” for people on the go. Today, they’ve become a beloved dish around the world, often enjoyed as a quick dinner or hearty snack.
Because they’re baked rather than fried, these calzones are lighter but still satisfyingly crisp on the outside. Better yet, the dough is simple to make, and the filling can be customized to suit everyone at the table. Serve them fresh out of the oven with a side of marinara for dipping, and you’ll have a dish that’s sure to please.
Recipe Yield: 4 servings
INGREDIENTS
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp instant yeast
1 tsp salt
1 tsp sugar
¾ cup warm water
2 tbsp olive oil
½ cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
½ cup marinara sauce (plus extra for dipping)
½ cup sliced pepperoni or cooked sausage (optional)
½ cup sautéed vegetables (mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers)
1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Make the dough:
In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Stir in warm water and olive oil until a dough forms. Knead for 5–6 minutes until smooth, then cover and let rest for 1 hour until doubled.
2. Prepare the filling:
In a medium bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, and marinara. Stir in meat or vegetables if using.
3. Shape the calzones:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down dough, then divide into 4 pieces. Roll each into a 6–7 inch circle.
4. Fill and fold:
Spoon filling onto half of each circle, leaving edges clean. Fold dough over to form a half-moon and press edges firmly. Seal by crimping with a fork.
5. Bake until golden:
Place calzones on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush tops with beaten egg. Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
6. Serve warm:
Cool slightly before serving with extra marinara for dipping.
Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe
- Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can cause the calzones to burst. Leave space around the edges for sealing.
- Seal Well: Press edges with a fork or twist slightly to keep the filling from leaking during baking.
- Customize Flavors: Swap in pesto, roasted veggies, or different cheeses to create your favorite calzone style.
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