Name: Homemade Calzone Recipe: Cheesy and Golden
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 98 min
Ingredients: 1 cup warm water (110°F); 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast; 1 tsp sugar; 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella; ½ cup ricotta cheese; ½ cup diced pepperoni; ½ cup diced bell pepper; ¼ cup finely diced red onion; ½ tsp dried oregano; ¼ tsp garlic powder; ¼ tsp black pepper; 1 large egg (beaten); 1 tbsp grated Parmesan; Optional: Marinara (fresh basil)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Homemade Calzone is a cheesy, golden pocket, perfect as a main dish for family dinners, game nights, or gatherings. This Italian-inspired recipe, featuring a soft, pillowy dough stuffed with melty mozzarella, savory fillings, and a crisp exterior, delivers bold, crowd-pleasing flavors with a fun, handheld twist. Baked until golden and presented on a white ceramic platter, optionally garnished with fresh basil or a side of marinara, this Homemade Calzone offers a rustic, inviting aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a straightforward dough and assembly method with customizable ingredients, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a go-to meal that brings warm, satisfying charm to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

1 cup warm water (110°F)
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
1 tsp granulated sugar
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp kosher salt
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Filling:

1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup ricotta cheese
½ cup pepperoni, diced (or cooked sausage, ham)
½ cup bell pepper, diced
¼ cup red onion, finely diced
½ tsp dried oregano
¼ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp black pepper

Assembly:

1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
1 tbsp grated Parmesan
Optional: Marinara sauce for dipping

Serving:

Optional: Fresh basil, extra marinara
Suggested Accompaniments: Side salad, garlic knots
Suggested Pairings: Red wine, sparkling water
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve on a white ceramic platter
Suggested Equipment: Mixing bowl, baking sheet, parchment paper, rolling pin, pastry brush

Step-by-Step Process

Activate Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Make Dough: Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth. Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour until doubled.
Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare Filling: In a bowl, mix mozzarella, ricotta, pepperoni, bell pepper, onion, oregano, garlic powder, and pepper.
Assemble Calzones: Punch down the dough and divide into 4 equal pieces. Roll each into an 8-inch circle. Spoon ¼ of the filling onto one half, leaving a 1-inch border. Fold the dough over, crimp the edges with a fork to seal. Cut 2–3 slits on top for steam. Transfer to the baking sheet.
Bake: Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with Parmesan. Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden brown.
Adjust Flavor: Taste a small piece of filling before sealing (if desired) and adjust with more oregano or salt for balanced savoriness.
Serve: Cool for 5 minutes. Present on a white ceramic platter with marinara for dipping and fresh basil. Serve warm with a side salad or garlic knots, paired with red wine or sparkling water.

Tips for Better Homemade Calzone

Don’t overfill to prevent leaks; ¾ cup filling per calzone is ideal.
Seal edges tightly with a fork to keep cheese inside.
Use warm (not hot) water for the yeast to activate properly.
Let the dough rise fully for a light, airy texture.
Present on a white ceramic platter to highlight the golden crust and melty filling.
Make ahead: Assemble calzones up to 1 day in advance; refrigerate and bake when ready (add 3–5 minutes).
Brush with egg wash for a shiny, professional finish.
Enhance aesthetic: Serve with a warm marinara ramekin for a vibrant, appetizing pop.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Homemade Calzone: Use gluten-free 1:1 flour; adjust water as needed.
Vegetarian Homemade Calzone: Replace meat with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or artichokes.
Low-Carb Homemade Calzone: Use fathead dough (mozzarella, cream cheese, almond flour).
Pizza Calzone: Add ¼ cup pizza sauce inside with toppings.
Breakfast Calzone: Fill with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheddar.
Four-Cheese Calzone: Use mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, and provolone.
Mini Calzones: Divide dough into 8 pieces for appetizer-sized portions.
Air Fryer Calzone: Cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.
Freeze baked or unbaked calzones (wrapped tightly) for up to 2 months; bake from frozen at 400°F for 20–25 minutes.
Serve warm for the best gooey cheese and crisp crust.
Use as a main dish or appetizer for dinners or gatherings.
Pair with red wine or sparkling water to complement the savory, cheesy flavors.
Presented on a white ceramic platter with marinara for a rustic, inviting charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 4 servings (1 calzone each):

Calories: 580 kcal
Total Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 105mg
Sodium: 980mg
Total Carbohydrates: 62g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 28g
Vitamin A: 20% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 40% Daily Value
Calcium: 35% Daily Value
Iron: 25% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (vegetarian or gluten-free options adjust carbs or sodium). High in protein and calcium.

Conclusion

This Homemade Calzone recipe delivers a cheesy, golden pocket perfect for family dinners or game nights. It transforms simple ingredients into a fun favorite. Its straightforward preparation and rustic presentation make it a go-to. The melty filling and crisp crust delight with every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its warm, crowd-pleasing charm.