Learn how to make authentic Italian calzones with this easy-to-follow recipe. These folded pizzas are stuffed with savory fillings and baked to perfection, making them a satisfying meal or snack. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, homemade calzones are sure to impress with their delicious flavors and versatility.
Ingredients for Real Italian Calzones
For the Dough:
- All-Purpose Flour – 3 cups
- Active Dry Yeast – 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- Warm Water – 1 cup
- Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons
- Salt – 1 teaspoon
- Granulated Sugar – 1 teaspoon
For the Filling:
- Ricotta Cheese – 1 cup
- Mozzarella Cheese – 1 1/2 cups, shredded
- Parmesan Cheese – 1/2 cup, grated
- Italian Sausage – 1/2 pound, cooked and crumbled
- Marinara Sauce – 1 cup
- Fresh Basil – 1/4 cup, chopped
- Salt and Pepper – to taste
For the Egg Wash:
- Egg – 1 large
- Water – 1 tablespoon
How to Make Real Italian Calzones
1. Prepare the Dough
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until dough forms, then knead on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic.
- Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
2. Prepare the Filling
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, cooked Italian sausage, marinara sauce, chopped basil, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside.
3. Assemble and Bake
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Divide Dough: Punch down dough and divide into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle about 8-10 inches in diameter.
- Add Filling: Spoon filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a border around the edge. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling, pressing edges firmly to seal.
- Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat egg with water. Brush over the tops of calzones.
- Bake: Place calzones on prepared baking sheets and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
- Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with additional marinara sauce for dipping.
About the Main Ingredients
Dough
Structure: The dough for calzones is similar to pizza dough, made with flour, yeast, water, olive oil, salt, and a touch of sugar. It forms a sturdy yet tender crust that holds the delicious fillings inside.
Versatility: This dough can also be used for pizzas and other Italian baked goods, making it a versatile base for many recipes.
Cheese
Melting Properties: Mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, creating a gooey, stringy texture that contrasts with the creamy ricotta and sharp Parmesan.
Flavor: Ricotta and Parmesan add richness and depth of flavor to the filling, enhancing the overall taste of the calzones.
Italian Sausage
Seasoning: Cooked and crumbled Italian sausage brings savory, spicy flavors to the filling. It complements the cheeses and marinara sauce, adding a hearty meaty element.
Marinara Sauce
Tomato Base: Marinara sauce serves as both a binder and a flavor enhancer for the filling. Its tangy tomato base balances the richness of the cheeses and sausage, tying the flavors together.
Now that you know how to make real Italian calzones, you can enjoy this classic dish at home anytime. Whether you serve them for dinner, as a party snack, or even pack them for lunch, these calzones are sure to be a hit. Experiment with different fillings and enjoy the delicious flavors of Italy right in your kitchen. Buon appetito!
