Calzone
A savory handheld calzone filled with spicy sausage, melted mozzarella, green pepper, and onion, perfect for casual dinners or parties, combining Italian flavors in a portable form.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown sausage with sliced green pepper and onion.
- Rinse and drain well.
- Mix meat with cheese.
- Chill the mixture.
- Divide each loaf into 4 pieces, making a total of 8 pieces.
- Roll each piece into a circle.
- Put approximately 1/2 cup of meat mixture on one half of the circle.
- Fold the other half over the meat.
- Pinch the ends together well to seal.
- Place on a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 425°F for 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using Italian sausage or mixing in some crushed red pepper flakes for heat. If you can't find frozen bread dough, homemade pizza dough works well as a substitute. You can also experiment with different fillings like spinach and ricotta for a vegetarian option. Chill the mixture well before filling to make handling easier.
Serving Suggestions
Serve calzones with marinara sauce on the side for dipping, which adds a delicious flavor contrast. A fresh green salad or garlic knots make excellent side dishes that complement the meal well. For a heartier option, pair with Pasta Sausage Bake for a satisfying feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. For a crispier crust, you can also use an air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Calzone contains roughly 519 calories, with 11g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 540mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze calzones before baking?
Yes, you can freeze assembled but unbaked calzones. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What other fillings can I use for calzones?
You can customize calzones with a variety of fillings. Options include pepperoni, mushrooms, spinach, ricotta cheese, or even leftovers from dishes like Sausage Lasagna Wraps. Just make sure the fillings are not too wet to prevent sogginess.
How do I know when the calzones are done baking?
Calzones are done when they are golden brown and have puffed up slightly. You can also check by tapping the bottom; it should sound hollow. If you're unsure, use a food thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).