Golden Baked Homemade Calzones
The ultimate comfort food, Golden Baked Homemade Calzones are savory pockets filled with a blend of melty cheeses and flavorful meats. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun party snack, they are sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy these easy-to-make calzones tonight!
Equipment
- Skillet
- Whisk
- Oven
- Chef's Knife
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
- 8 ounces mild Italian sausage
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1 unit Homemade Pizza Dough or store bought
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 unit egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial for ensuring your calzones are perfectly baked.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. This prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup!
- In a small skillet over medium-high heat, add 8 ounces mild Italian sausage. Cook and crumble it until it’s evenly browned and fully cooked. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s nice and golden.
- Next, take 1 Homemade Pizza Dough (or store-bought) and cut it into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into an 8-inch round. Aim for a thickness that will hold the fillings without tearing.
- Divide ½ cup ricotta cheese among the rounds, spreading it evenly on one half of each calzone. Make sure to leave a ¼-inch border of dough exposed.
- On top of the ricotta, lay 1 cup sliced pepperoni and sprinkle the cooked sausage. Then, add 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for that gooey goodness!
- Now it’s time to fold the calzones! Fold them in half, covering the fillings. Pinch and fold the edges together to seal tightly. This ensures none of the deliciousness escapes during baking.
- Place the assembled calzones on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure there’s enough space between them.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1 egg and 1 tablespoon water to create an egg wash. Brush this egg wash over each calzone for that golden finish.
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese and 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning evenly on each calzone. This step adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Finally, cut 3 slits in the top of each calzone. This allows steam to escape during baking.
- Bake the calzones for 15 to 18 minutes until they are golden brown and beautifully baked through. The smell will drive you wild!
- Once they’re done, let the calzones rest for a few minutes before enjoying. This step is essential to allow the cheese to set a bit.
Notes
- Make-Ahead: Assemble calzones (no egg wash or toppings), cover, and chill up to 2 hours. Add egg wash, toppings, and 3 slits right before baking.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen at 375°F for 25–30 minutes.