How to Make Italian Calzone for a Tasty Dinner
If you're looking to spice up your dinner routine, making an Italian calzone is a fantastic idea. Not only are calzones delicious, but they also allow for endless customization depending on your taste preferences. Below, you'll find a step-by-step guide to crafting the perfect calzone, complete with tips for the best results.
Ingredients You'll Need
To make a traditional Italian calzone, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled Italian sausage or your choice of protein
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the olive oil and activated yeast mixture. Stir until a dough begins to form, then knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, cooked sausage (or your chosen protein), oregano, and garlic powder. Stir until well combined. This mixture will provide a rich and flavorful filling for your calzone.
3. Shape the Calzones
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into two or four equal pieces, depending on how large you want your calzones. Roll each piece into a circle about ¼ inch thick.
Place a generous amount of filling on one half of each dough circle, leaving a border around the edges. Be careful not to overfill, as this could cause the calzone to burst open during baking.
4. Fold and Seal
Fold the other half of the dough over the filling. Pinch the edges securely to seal the calzone and prevent any filling from leaking out during cooking. For extra security, you can crimp the edges with a fork.
5. Bake the Calzones
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. For a beautiful golden finish, brush the tops with an egg wash (1 beaten egg mixed with a splash of water).
Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown. The dough should sound hollow when tapped lightly.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Remove the calzones from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice them in half and serve with marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy your homemade Italian calzones with a fresh side salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal!
Tips for Perfect Calzones
For the best results, keep these tips in mind:
- Experiment with fillings! Try adding spinach, peppers, or mushrooms for variation.
- Consider letting the calzones rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set.
- Make a larger batch and freeze extra calzones for a quick future meal.
Making Italian calzones from scratch can be a rewarding and tasty experience. Follow this guide for a delightful dinner that the whole family will love!