These sausage calzones are like little pizza pockets filled with yummy sausage, gooey cheese, and tasty veggies. They’re perfect for a quick meal or snack!
Making calzones is so much fun! I love adding extra cheese and dipping them in marinara sauce. It feels like a pizza party every time I whip them up! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: Choose between mild or spicy, depending on your heat preference. If you want a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausage works well too. Just remember to check the seasoning!
Pizza Dough: I love using store-bought dough for convenience, but homemade is always nice if you have time. You can also try using whole wheat dough for a healthier twist.
Cheeses: Mozzarella is a must for that stretchy pull! For a deeper flavor, mix in some provolone or fontina. Don’t have Parmesan? Grated Romano is a great substitute.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh is best, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use onion powder and garlic powder for convenience. Fresh herbs are always a plus if you have them on hand!
How Do I Ensure My Calzones Stay Sealed During Baking?
Sealing calzones is super important to keep all that delicious filling inside. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to leave a little border around the edge of the dough when adding the filling.
- Firmly press the edges together before crimping them. You can also moisten the edges with a bit of water to help seal.
- Crimping or twisting the edges creates a secure seal, so don’t skip this step!
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly sealed calzones that hold all that tasty goodness inside. Enjoy your cooking!
Sausage Calzones
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casing removed)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup marinara sauce, plus extra for dipping
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Calzones:
- 1 package (about 16 oz) pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Olive oil, for cooking
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh basil leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 22 minutes of baking time. So, you’re looking at roughly 40 minutes from start to finish—a perfect time frame for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Filling:
In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
3. Brown the Sausage:
Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks until browned and fully cooked, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if you like it spicy!). Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the marinara sauce, then set this mixture aside to cool slightly.
4. Prepare the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, divide the pizza dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle that’s about 6-7 inches in diameter.
5. Fill the Calzones:
On one half of each dough circle, spoon an even amount of the sausage mixture. Then, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top while leaving a small border around the edge for sealing.
6. Seal the Calzones:
Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal them shut, then crimp or twist the edges to ensure they don’t open during baking.
7. Bake:
Place the calzones on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a lovely golden crust and, if desired, sprinkle with a little extra Parmesan cheese and cracked black pepper.
8. Final Touches:
Bake in your preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown. Once done, remove from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
9. Serve Warm:
Enjoy your homemade sausage calzones warm, with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired for an added touch!
These calzones are not only cheesy and flavorful, but they’re also great for sharing or as a cozy meal for yourself. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a great leaner alternative. Just be sure to season adequately since they have less fat and flavor compared to traditional sausage. You can add some extra herbs or spices to enhance the taste!
How Can I Store Leftover Calzones?
Once cooled, store any leftover calzones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for the best texture.
Can I Freeze Calzones for Later?
Yes, calzones freeze beautifully! Just let them cool completely before wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven!
What Are Some Good Dipping Sauces for Calzones?
Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but you can also try ranch dressing, garlic butter, or even a spicy aioli for a twist. Experimenting with different sauces can add an extra layer of flavor to your calzones!
