Sausage calzones are like little pockets of joy! These savory treats are filled with delicious sausage, gooey cheese, and a bit of sauce, all tucked inside warm, doughy bread.
When I make these, I can’t help but feel like a pizza chef! They’re perfect for a movie night or a quick lunch. Plus, you can dip them in extra sauce for that flavorful kick—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: You can choose either mild or spicy Italian sausage based on your taste. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey sausage works great too!
Pizza Dough: Store-bought pizza dough is a time-saver, but if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade dough adds a special touch. Gluten-free dough can also be used if you or guests have dietary restrictions.
Cheeses: Mozzarella is a must for that melty goodness. Ricotta adds creaminess, but you can skip it if you’re avoiding dairy. Try vegan cheese alternatives if you want a plant-based version.
Marinara Sauce: You can use store-bought marinara for convenience, but homemade or even pesto can make for a tasty twist. Feel free to add extra herbs or spices to enhance the flavor.
How Do I Get a Perfectly Sealed Calzone?
Sealing your calzone correctly ensures that all that tasty filling stays inside. Here’s how to do it:
- After placing the filling on one half of the dough, gently fold the other half over. Don’t overfill—less is more!
- Press the edges together firmly. A little water on your fingers can help to moisten the dough for a better seal.
- To really lock it in, crimp the edges with a fork—this gives it that classic look too!
Taking these steps helps ensure you won’t lose any delicious filling while they bake. Happy cooking!
How to Make Sausage Calzones
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 package (about 1 lb) pizza dough or homemade dough
- 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce, plus extra for dipping
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil or 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- Olive oil (for brushing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 20 minutes for baking. That means you can whip up these delicious calzones in about 35-40 minutes total—perfect for a quick dinner that your family will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it’s heating, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it. This will help prevent your calzones from sticking!
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage. Use a spatula to break the sausage into smaller pieces as it cooks. Keep an eye on it until it’s perfectly browned and cooked through. Add the minced garlic in the last minute of cooking to infuse that delicious flavor. Once done, drain any excess fat and set the mixture aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage with 1 cup of marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella, ricotta cheese (if you’re using it), Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and dried basil. Mix everything well, and don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
4. Roll Out the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a large circle or rectangle about 1/4-inch thick. Cut the dough into 4-6 equal portions, depending on how big you want your calzones.
5. Fill the Dough:
Take a generous spoonful of the sausage and cheese filling and place it on one half of each piece of dough, leaving a small border around the edges to help seal them later.
6. Create the Calzones:
Fold the dough over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal them shut. To make sure they stay sealed while baking, you can crimp the edges with a fork for a nice touch!
7. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer your calzones to the prepared baking sheet. Beat the egg in a small bowl and use it to brush the tops of each calzone. This will give them a fantastic golden color when they bake!
8. Bake Them Up:
Bake the calzones in your preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The scent will be irresistible!
9. Let Them Cool:
Once they’re baked, remove the calzones from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This will make them easier to handle and eat!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the calzones warm, alongside extra marinara sauce for dipping. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!
Now you have a delicious homemade treat that everyone will rave about. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Meats in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the Italian sausage with ground beef, turkey, or even shredded chicken. For a vegetarian option, consider adding vegetables like mushrooms or spinach instead of meat.
How Do I Store Leftover Calzones?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave them for a quick option.
Can I Freeze Calzones?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked calzones! Just assemble them, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake them directly from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time!
How Do I Ensure the Dough is Cooked Through?
To ensure that the dough is fully cooked, look for a deep golden brown color on the outside. You can also insert a toothpick into the calzone; if it comes out clean without any raw dough, it’s ready to eat!
