These tasty sausage calzones are like little stuffed pizzas filled with spicy sausage, gooey cheese, and rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack!
Honestly, who can resist a warm calzone? I love dipping mine in extra sauce—it’s messy but so worth it! Make a bunch; they go fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star of your calzones! You can use mild or spicy depending on your taste. If you want a healthier option, swap it for ground turkey or chicken sausage, which are also flavorful.
Cheese: Mozzarella gives that gooey stretch we love. If you’re out of ricotta, it’s okay to skip it, but I love adding it for creaminess. Use cottage cheese or cream cheese as substitutes if you’re looking for alternatives.
Pizza Dough: I usually use store-bought pizza dough for convenience, but if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade dough is fantastic! You can even use puff pastry for a flaky twist!
How Do I Make Sure My Calzones Are Sealed Properly?
Sealing your calzones is key to keeping all the delicious fillings inside. Here’s how:
- After filling, fold the dough over carefully, making sure not to overstuff it.
- Press the edges firmly to avoid any leaks. If you like, wet your finger with water before pressing to help the dough stick together.
- Use a fork to crimp the edges. This not only seals them but also gives a nice decorative edge!
Don’t rush this step; thorough sealing will prevent any mess in the oven. Happy cooking!
How to Make Delicious Sausage Calzones
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Calzone:
- 1 package (about 1 lb) pizza dough or puff pastry dough
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Marinara sauce, for serving
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This entire recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and another 18-22 minutes to bake, giving you delicious homemade calzones in just about an hour. Perfect for a quick dinner or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper so your calzones don’t stick!
2. Cook the Sausage Filling:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, cooking until it softens—this should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, toss in the minced garlic for about 30 seconds, just until it smells amazing. Add the sausage and cook it through, breaking it up with a spoon. This will take about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat, then remove from heat.
3. Mix It Up:
Stir in the dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper into the sausage mixture and let it cool slightly. In another bowl, mix together the mozzarella, ricotta (if you’re using it), and Parmesan cheese until well combined.
4. Shape the Calzones:
Roll out your pizza dough into a large circle or rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick, on a floured surface. Cut the dough into 6 equal pieces—these can be circles or squares, depending on your preference!
5. Fill and Fold:
Spoon a generous amount of the sausage mixture onto one side of each piece of dough. Top it off with a good amount of the cheese mixture. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape (if using circles) or a triangle (if using squares). Seal the edges well: press them down firmly or use a fork to crimp the edges.
6. Bake It:
Transfer the calzones to your prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a lovely golden crust when baked. Pop them in the oven for 18-22 minutes, or until they are puffed up and beautifully golden.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, let the calzones cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm with marinara sauce for dipping and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil if you like!
Enjoy your delicious homemade sausage calzones, crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor on the inside!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute Italian sausage with ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian sausage. Adjust the seasonings accordingly if the substitute is less flavorful.
Can I Prepare These Calzones in Advance?
Yes! You can assemble the calzones ahead of time and refrigerate them uncooked. Just be sure to cover them well to prevent drying out. Bake them straight from the fridge, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
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 for the best texture.
Can I Freeze Calzones?
Yes, you can freeze calzones before baking! Assemble and freeze them on a parchment-lined baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, adjusting time as needed until golden brown.
