Authentic Italian Calzones Recipe

Learn how to make authentic Italian calzones from scratch with this easy-to-follow recipe. These homemade calzones are filled with a flavorful combination of cheese, meats, and vegetables, and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives
• 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper
• 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/4 cup diced onion
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Mix well.
2. Add in the warm water and olive oil. Stir until the dough comes together.
3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
6. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 4 equal portions.
7. On a floured surface, roll out each portion of dough into a circle about 8 inches in diameter.
8. Spread 1/4 cup of marinara sauce over half of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges.
9. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
10. Top with pepperoni, black olives, green bell pepper, mushrooms, and onions.
11. Sprinkle dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes on top of the fillings.
12. Fold the dough over the fillings to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges by pressing them together.
13. Place the calzones on a baking sheet and brush the tops with olive oil.
14. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the calzones are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
15. Serve hot with additional marinara sauce for dipping.

Interesting Facts