These sausage calzones are like little pockets of joy! Filled with flavorful sausage, gooey cheese, and a crispy crust, they’re perfect for a tasty meal or snack.
Every bite is a delightful surprise! I love to dip them in marinara sauce—it adds a yummy twist! Plus, they’re super fun to make with friends or family! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian sausage: This is the star of the show! You can use spicy or sweet sausage depending on your taste. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey sausage or plant-based sausage works well too.
Cheese: I love the creaminess of ricotta in calzones, but if you don’t have it, you can skip it or substitute with cream cheese. For a stronger flavor, try adding some provolone or even feta!
Pizza dough: Homemade is great, but store-bought saves time. If you want a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free pizza dough. Just make sure it’s pliable enough to hold your fillings!
Herbs: Using fresh herbs can really up your calzone game. If you have fresh oregano or basil, use those instead of dried for a fresher taste.
How Do You Get the Calzone Edges to Seal Properly?
Sealing the edges can be tricky! To make sure your calzones don’t burst open while baking, follow these tips:
- Make sure to press the edges firmly together after folding the dough over the filling.
- You can wet your fingers with a little water and run it along the edge before sealing. This helps them stick better.
- Use a fork to crimp the edges, creating a tight seal and a pretty pattern!
Taking your time here ensures none of that delicious filling escapes!
How to Make Sausage Calzones
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional, for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 (16 oz) package pizza dough or store-bought pizza dough
- 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 10 minutes for prep and 20-25 minutes for baking. So, you’ll need around 35-40 minutes in total. Perfect for a quick dinner or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this will help prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Keep cooking until the sausage is browned and no longer pink. If there’s too much fat, drain it off.
3. Mix the Filling:
After the sausage cools a bit, transfer it to a mixing bowl. Add shredded mozzarella, ricotta (if you’re using it), Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined!
4. Prepare the Dough:
On a floured surface, roll out your pizza dough until it’s about 1/4 inch thick, forming a large circle or rectangle. Use a pizza cutter or knife to cut the dough into 6 equal pieces (or however big you want your calzones).
5. Fill the Calzones:
Take a portion of the sausage and cheese mixture and place it on one half of each dough piece, making sure to leave some space around the edges for sealing.
6. Seal the Calzones:
Now, fold the dough over the filling, making a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together to seal. To be extra sure they stay closed, you can crimp the edges with a fork or twist the dough.
7. Egg Wash:
Beat the egg in a small bowl, then use a pastry brush to apply the egg wash over the tops of each calzone. This will give them a lovely golden color when they bake!
8. Bake the Calzones:
Place the calzones on your prepared baking sheet and pop them in the oven. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the crust is golden and cooked through. The smell will be amazing!
9. Cool & Garnish:
When they are done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for that extra touch.
10. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve these delicious calzones warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy your yummy creation!
Happy cooking! ☺️
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Italian Sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will yield a lighter calzone. Just remember to season it well with Italian herbs to replicate that classic sausage flavor!
How Can I Store Leftover Calzones?
Store any leftover calzones 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. You can also microwave them, but the oven keeps the crust crispy!
Can I Freeze These Calzones?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked calzones! Assemble them as directed, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, you can cook them from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the bake time!
What Should I Serve with the Calzones?
These calzones pair perfectly with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. You could also serve them with a fresh salad or some roasted veggies to balance the meal!
