Quick Calzones
Quick calzones filled with creamy ricotta, mozzarella, savory prosciutto, and fresh basil, perfect for a satisfying meal or snack, suitable for family and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, chopped prosciutto, basil, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a bowl. Set aside.
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Brush two large baking sheets with salad oil; set aside.
- Divide each bread dough loaf into 3 equal parts.
- Roll each piece into a 7-inch round.
- Place 1/2 cup of the cheese mixture on half of each dough round, spreading to within 1/2-inch of the edge.
- Beat eggs with 1 tablespoon water and brush over the edges of the dough round.
- Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and pinch the edges to seal.
- Place 3 calzones on each prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the calzones with salad oil.
- Bake for 30 to 40 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try adding sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or peppers to the filling. If you don't have ricotta, cottage cheese can be a suitable substitute. Using fresh basil enhances the flavor, but dried basil works in a pinch. Make sure to seal the calzones well to prevent leakage during baking.
Serving Suggestions
These calzones are delicious on their own but serve well with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Pair them with a fresh salad or a selection of Italian recipes like Roasted Italian Potato Fans for a complete meal. They also make great appetizers for gatherings.
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 warmed through. This helps maintain their crispiness, unlike microwaving which can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Calzones contains roughly 744 calories, with 33g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (69% of the Daily Value), protein (66% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1049mg per serving (46% 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 the calzones before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled calzones before baking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, you can cook them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of prosciutto?
If you prefer a different meat, you can substitute cooked sausage, pepperoni, or even cooked chicken. For a vegetarian option, consider using spinach and ricotta or a mix of sautéed vegetables to enhance the filling while keeping it meat-free.
How do I know when the calzones are done?
Calzones are done when they are golden brown on the outside. You can also tap the bottom; it should sound hollow. If you're unsure, use a food thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
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).