Sausage calzones are tasty pockets of joy filled with flavorful sausage, gooey cheese, and zesty tomato sauce. They’re like pizza, but way more fun to eat!
Perfect for a quick dinner or a fun snack, I love how easy it is to toss in any extra veggies I have around. Plus, who doesn’t love grabbing a warm, cheesy calzone with their hands? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: You can choose between mild or spicy sausage based on your flavor preference. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey sausage or chicken sausage works great, too!
Cheeses: Mozzarella gives that classic stretchy-cheese effect, while ricotta adds creaminess. If you want a lighter option, try using part-skim ricotta. In a pinch, cottage cheese can work, though the texture will vary a bit.
Pizza Sauce: Store-bought sauce is convenient, but homemade sauce can elevate the flavor tremendously. If you’re low on toppings, try using pesto, barbecue sauce, or even a simple olive oil drizzle instead.
Pizza Dough: Refrigerated pizza dough is easy to use, but if you want to make it from scratch, it’s worth the effort! Alternatively, crescent roll dough can provide a flaky texture if you’re looking for a shortcut.
How Do I Get the Perfect Seal on My Calzones?
Sealing your calzones properly is key to keeping all that delicious filling inside. Here’s how to do it:
- After adding the filling, leave a small border around the edge about 1/2 inch wide.
- Moisten the edges with a little water before folding; this helps them stick better.
- Press the edges firmly together to seal. Use a fork to crimp, which not only seals but adds a nice design!
Taking these steps ensures your calzones don’t burst open during baking, keeping everything nice and contained for a perfect bite!
How to Make Sausage Calzones
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dough:
- 1 package refrigerated pizza dough (about 16 oz) or homemade pizza dough
For Topping:
- Olive oil for brushing
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 cup pizza sauce (plus extra for dipping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time and another 20-25 minutes of baking time. So, in total, you should set aside about 45-50 minutes to make these delicious calzones from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to preheat. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so the calzones won’t stick, and easy cleanup is guaranteed!
2. Cook the Sausage Mixture:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. When the sausage is half-cooked, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the sausage is fully browned and the onions are soft, then drain any excess fat.
3. Season the Mixture:
Stir in the oregano, basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Give it a good mix, then take it off the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
4. Make the Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled sausage mixture with the mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, and 1 cup of pizza sauce. Mix everything until well combined—this will be your delicious filling!
5. Prepare the Dough:
Pull out your pizza dough and roll it out on a floured surface until it’s about 12 inches in diameter. Then, cut the dough into four equal circles, which will serve as the pockets for your filling.
6. Fill the Calzones:
Take one of the dough circles and spoon 1/4 of the sausage and cheese mixture onto one half of the circle. Be sure to leave a small border around the edge, so you can seal it properly.
7. Seal the Calzones:
Fold the dough over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal them shut, and use a fork to crimp the edges if you like. This will help keep all that wonderful filling inside!
8. Bake the Calzones:
Place your filled and sealed calzones on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil to achieve a nice golden crust during baking.
9. Timing is Everything:
Bake the calzones in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and the dough is cooked through.
10. Cool and Serve:
Once baked to perfection, remove the calzones from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil for extra flavor and color!
11. Dip and Enjoy:
Serve your warm, cheesy sausage calzones with extra pizza sauce for dipping. Enjoy every delicious bite!
With simple steps, you’ve made a delightful meal that’s sure to please everyone. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Sausage?
Yes, you can! If you prefer ground beef, just swap it in for the sausage. You may want to adjust the seasoning slightly since beef can be less flavorful on its own. Add more herbs or some Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor!
What Should I Do If My Dough Is Sticky?
If your pizza dough is sticky, simply sprinkle a bit more flour on your work surface and your hands while rolling it out. You want it to be manageable but still soft, so don’t overdo it with the flour.
How Can I Make These Calzones Vegetarian?
To make vegetarian calzones, swap the sausage for sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach. You can also add more cheese or use a plant-based sausage for added flavor!
How to Store Leftover Calzones?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through, for the best results!