Sausage calzones are like little pockets of happiness! They’re filled with yummy sausage, cheese, and a blend of Italian spices, all wrapped in a tasty dough.
Who doesn’t love a good calzone? I always make extra so I can enjoy them for lunch the next day. They’re perfect for sharing (or not—no judgment here)! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: The star of this dish! You can use mild or spicy sausage based on your taste. If you want a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage works great too.
Cheese: Mozzarella gives that melty goodness, while ricotta adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a vegan option, try a mix of cashew cheese and tofu instead of ricotta.
Pizza Dough: Store-bought dough is super convenient, but homemade is even better! If avoiding gluten, consider using gluten-free pizza dough.
Spices: Oregano, garlic, and onion powders boost flavor significantly. Feel free to add Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like basil for a fresh taste.
How Do You Seal Calzones Properly?
Sealing the calzones well is crucial to keep the filling from spilling out while baking. Here’s how to do it:
- After placing the filling on one half, fold the dough over carefully.
- Press the edges together firmly to make a good seal.
- Use a fork to crimp the edges or pinch the dough together to secure. This makes for a fun and decorative touch too!
Taking care with this step will make sure you have perfectly stuffed calzones without any mess. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Sausage Calzones
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casing removed
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Dough and Toppings:
- 1 package refrigerated pizza dough (or homemade pizza dough, about 1 lb)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Marinara sauce, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake, totaling around 30-35 minutes. It’s a quick and fun meal to whip up, perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this will help your calzones not stick!
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Cook for about 6-8 minutes or until the sausage is no longer pink. Drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside to cool slightly.
3. Mix the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes (if using), and a little salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
4. Roll Out the Dough:
Lightly flour your workspace and roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle or circle about 1/4 inch thick. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into 4 to 6 equal pieces, depending on how big you want your calzones.
5. Fill the Calzones:
On one half of each piece of dough, place a generous amount of your sausage and cheese filling. Be sure to leave a small border on the edges so you can seal them properly!
6. Seal the Calzones:
Gently fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal them, then crimp the edges with a fork or pinch them tightly to prevent any filling from escaping during baking.
7. Prepare for Baking:
Place the calzones on the prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, beat the egg, then brush the tops of each calzone with the egg wash. This will give them a beautiful, golden crust!
8. Bake the Calzones:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake the calzones for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up nicely.
9. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the calzones from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle some chopped basil or parsley on top for a fresh touch!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious sausage calzones warm, with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy every bite!
These calzones make for a fantastic meal or snack that everyone will love—happy cooking!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Pork Sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner option. Just make sure to season it well, as turkey can be less flavorful than pork sausage.
How Can I Make These Calzones Vegetarian?
To make the calzones vegetarian, simply omit the sausage and add your favorite vegetables, like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers. You could also include some cooked lentils or beans for added protein!
Can I Freeze Leftover Calzones?
Yes! After baking, let the calzones cool completely. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Calzones?
Calzones are best served warm and can be enjoyed on their own or with marinara sauce for dipping. You can also pair them with a fresh salad or some sliced vegetables for a complete meal!
