Homemade Italian Calzone

The dish in the image appears to be a Classic Italian Calzone — a golden-brown folded pizza stuffed with melted cheese, cured meats, vegetables, and savory tomato sauce.

Ingredients

Dough

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 cup warm water

• 2 tbsp olive oil

Filling

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

• ½ cup ricotta cheese

• ½ cup pepperoni or salami slices

• ½ cup cooked chicken or Italian sausage (optional)

• ½ cup sautéed mushrooms

• ½ cup bell peppers, sliced

• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

• ½ cup pizza sauce

Topping

• 1 egg, beaten

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Italian seasoning

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

1. Combine warm water, yeast, and sugar.

2. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

3. Add flour, salt, and olive oil.

4. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth.

5. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.

2. Prepare the Filling

1. Mix mozzarella and ricotta.

2. Cook vegetables until tender.

3. Prepare meats and allow them to cool slightly.

3. Assemble the Calzones

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Divide dough into 4 portions.

3. Roll each portion into a circle.

4. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce on one half.

5. Add cheese, meats, and vegetables.

6. Fold dough over and seal edges tightly.

7. Crimp with a fork.

4. Bake

1. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.

2. Brush with egg wash.

3. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning.

4. Bake for 18–22 minutes until golden brown.

5. Serve

1. Cool for 5 minutes.

2. Slice and serve with warm marinara sauce.

Nutrition (Approximate Per Calzone)

• Calories: 500–650

• Protein: 25–35 g

• Carbohydrates: 45–55 g

• Fat: 20–30 g

Flavor Profile

🧀 Gooey melted mozzarella and ricotta
🍕 Classic pizza-inspired flavors
🥩 Savory meats and vegetables
🥖 Crispy golden crust with soft interior

Variations

• Chicken Alfredo Calzone

• Spinach & Ricotta Calzone

• BBQ Chicken Calzone

• Four Cheese Calzone

• Mediterranean Veggie Calzone

Serving Suggestions

• Marinara dipping sauce

• Caesar salad

• Garlic knots

• Roasted vegetables

Yield

• 4 calzones

• Prep Time: 25 minutes

• Rise Time: 1 hour

• Bake Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: About 1 hour 45 minutes

A delicious Italian favorite that combines everything you love about pizza into a portable, golden-baked pocket overflowing with melted cheese and flavorful fillings. 🍕🧀🥖✨