Real Italian Calzones Recipe

Certainly! Here’s a simple and authentic recipe for Italian calzones. This recipe makes four calzones.

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the filling:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup cooked Italian sausage or pepperoni slices
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For assembling:

• Flour for dusting
• Olive oil for brushing

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
   • Mix until the dough comes together, then knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a bowl, mix together ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, cooked sausage or pepperoni, marinara sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
3. Assemble the Calzones:
   • Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
   • Punch down the risen dough and divide it into four equal portions.
   • On a floured surface, roll out each portion into a 10-inch circle.
   • Place a portion of the filling on one half of each dough circle, leaving a border around the edge.
   • Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and seal the edges by pressing with your fingers or a fork.
   • Transfer the calzones to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake:
   • Brush the tops of the calzones with olive oil.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Serve:
   • Let the calzones cool for a few minutes before serving. You can serve them with additional marinara sauce for dipping if desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Italian calzones!