Sausage calzones are tasty pockets of joy! Filled with savory sausage and melted cheese, they are perfect for a meal or a fun snack.
They’re like little surprises waiting to be bitten into! I love adding some marinara sauce on the side for dipping—it makes them even more delicious! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: Your choice of mild or spicy sausage really shapes the flavor. If you want a leaner option, turkey sausage is a great substitution!
Cheeses: I love using mozzarella for its meltiness and Parmesan for a salty kick. If you’re lactose intolerant, you can swap these for vegan cheese alternatives or even use ricotta for a creamier texture!
Pizza Dough: Store-bought dough is super convenient, but if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade dough is a fun project! Gluten-free dough is also available if you need an alternative.
Herbs: Dried oregano and basil are classic, but fresh herbs add a lovely brightness. You can substitute Italian seasoning if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do You Ensure Your Calzones Are Perfectly Sealed?
Sealing the calzones properly is crucial to keep the filling from leaking out. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to leave about a 1-inch border around the edge of the dough when adding the filling.
- Press the edges firmly together after folding the dough over. A fork can help crimp the edges and add a decorative touch.
- For extra security, you can brush a little water or egg wash on the edges to act like glue!
Following these tips will help keep all that cheesy deliciousness inside! Enjoy your 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 marinara sauce (plus extra for dipping)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Dough:
- 1 batch pizza dough (about 1 lb; store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes for baking. So in total, plan for about 50 minutes. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that the whole family will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the calzones from sticking and make clean-up easier.
2. Cooking the Filling:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until you can smell its delicious aroma.
Now, crumble in the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the sausage is browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Once done, stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to enhance the flavors, then remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Rolling Out the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large circle (roughly 12 inches in diameter). If you’re using a large ball of dough, go ahead and cut it into 4 equal-sized circles.
4. Filling the Calzones:
Now, take about 1/4 of the sausage mixture and spoon it onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Don’t forget to sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the sausage mixture for that gooey, cheesy goodness!
5. Sealing the Calzones:
Carefully fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly. You can crimp them with a fork to ensure they’re sealed tightly, which also gives them a nice look.
6. Baking:
Place the calzones on the lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a beautiful golden crust once baked. Pop them in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
7. Serving:
Once baked, remove the calzones from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Enjoy your homemade, crispy, cheesy sausage calzones fresh out of the oven! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a healthier alternative to traditional sausage. Just make sure to season it well with herbs and spices to enhance the flavor!
Can I Make These Calzones Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make vegetarian calzones! Substitute the sausage for sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach. You could also use plant-based sausage for a similar experience.
How Do I Store Leftover Calzones?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through. If reheating in the oven, a quick 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C) can help retain their crispness!
Can I Freeze Uncooked Calzones?
Yes! You can freeze uncooked calzones. Assemble them, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time!
