Calzone Recipe

A calzone is one of Italy’s most comforting and satisfying creations—a folded pizza pocket stuffed with gooey cheese, savory fillings, and baked until perfectly golden.

It’s portable, customizable, and surprisingly easy to make at home.

Whether you fill it with classic pepperoni, fresh vegetables, or gourmet meats, this calzone recipe guarantees a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or meal prep, homemade calzones deliver restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.

Calzone Recipe

This homemade calzone recipe features soft, chewy pizza dough filled with melty mozzarella, ricotta, herbs, and your choice of meats or vegetables.

The dough is folded over like a half-moon, sealed tightly, brushed with olive oil, and baked until bubbly and golden brown.

You can prepare a batch quickly using store-bought dough or go fully homemade for a richer flavor. Serve your calzones warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

Ingredients

For the Dough (or use store-bought pizza dough):

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup warm water
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Filling:

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• ¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated
• ½ cup pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, or preferred filling
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Assembly:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 egg (optional, for egg wash)
• Marinara sauce for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

1. In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
2. Combine flour and salt in a large bowl.
3. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

(Skip this step if using store-bought dough.)

2. Make the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan.
2. Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Gently fold in your preferred meats or vegetables.
4. Mix until well combined and set aside.

3. Shape the Calzones

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions.
3. Roll each portion into an 8–9 inch circle.
4. Spoon the filling onto one half of each dough circle—leaving space around the edges.

4. Seal and Prepare for Baking

1. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape.
2. Press the edges together, then crimp with a fork or twist for a tight seal.
3. Cut 2–3 small slits on top to allow steam to escape.
4. Brush with olive oil or egg wash for a glossy finish.

5. Bake

1. Place the calzones on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
3. Remove from the oven and cool slightly before serving.

Conclusion

Homemade calzones are an incredibly satisfying meal that blends the best elements of pizza into a convenient handheld pocket.

With customizable fillings, easy prep, and a deliciously crispy result, this calzone recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

Serve with warm marinara sauce and enjoy an Italian classic right from your kitchen.