Classic Italian Calzone

A Classic Italian Calzone is a delicious, golden-baked turnover filled with creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and savory marinara sauce. This comforting dish is essentially a folded pizza, with a crispy crust on the outside and a cheesy, flavorful filling inside. Perfect for pizza night, this homemade calzone is easy to customize and makes a great meal or snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cheesy and Satisfying – A perfect balance of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan for an indulgent bite.
• Crispy and Golden – Baked to perfection with a flaky, golden crust.
• Easy to Make – Uses simple ingredients and comes together quickly.
• Customizable – Add meats, vegetables, or extra spices to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb pizza dough
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Fresh basil for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a large circle, about 1/4 inch thick.
3. On one half of the dough, spread ricotta cheese evenly.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the ricotta.
5. Add a few spoonfuls of marinara sauce on top of the cheese.
6. Season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt.
7. Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges firmly to seal. Use a fork or crimp with your fingers for a decorative edge.
8. Brush the top with egg wash for a golden crust.
9. Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
10. Garnish with fresh basil and serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Meat Lover’s Calzone – Add pepperoni, cooked sausage, or ham for a heartier filling.
• Veggie Calzone – Include sautéed spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions.
• Spicy Calzone – Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
• Pesto Calzone – Swap marinara for basil pesto for a fresh, herby flavor.
• Mini Calzones – Divide the dough into smaller portions for individual-sized calzones.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap uncooked calzones tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the cook time.
• Reheating: Warm in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes or in an air fryer for 5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to maintain crispiness.

FAQs

What is the difference between a calzone and a stromboli?

A calzone is a folded, stuffed pizza, while a stromboli is rolled and baked into a log shape.

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, pre-made pizza dough works well and saves time.

What type of cheese is best for calzones?

A combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates the best texture and flavor.

How do I prevent my calzone from getting soggy?

Avoid overfilling and ensure the edges are sealed tightly to prevent leaks.

Can I make this calzone without an egg wash?

Yes, but the egg wash gives the crust a beautiful golden color. You can substitute with melted butter or milk.

Can I air-fry a calzone?

Yes, air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What dipping sauces go well with calzones?

Marinara, garlic butter, ranch dressing, or pesto are great options.

Can I prepare calzones ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

How can I make a gluten-free calzone?

Use gluten-free pizza dough and follow the same instructions.

What side dishes go well with calzones?

A fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair well with calzones.

Conclusion

This Classic Italian Calzone is a comforting, cheesy, and crispy dish that’s perfect for any pizza lover. Whether you enjoy it as a quick dinner, a party snack, or a weekend treat, this homemade calzone is sure to impress. Try different variations and serve with your favorite dipping sauces for the ultimate Italian experience!