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Savory Calzones Filled with Cheese and Spinach

Savory Calzones Filled with Cheese and Spinach

Savory calzones are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party snack. These golden-brown delights are packed with a rich filling of cheeses and leafy spinach, all encased in a crispy crust. Plus, they’re incredibly satisfying to make and even better to eat—ideal for when you crave something hearty and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These savory calzones are not only easy to whip up but also offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures. With a crispy exterior and a gooey, cheesy filling, they’re sure to please everyone at the table. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

  • Quick and simple preparation.
  • Versatile filling options to suit your taste.
  • Perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
  • Kid-friendly and fun to eat!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 pound Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for brushing

How to Make Savory Calzones

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, chopped spinach, and crumbled Italian sausage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large circle about 1/4 inch thick. Cut the dough into 6 equal pieces, forming circles.
  4. Spoon a generous amount of the cheese and spinach filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edge.
  5. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a semi-circle. Press the edges together to seal, then crimp with a fork for an extra secure seal.
  6. Brush the tops of the calzones with the beaten egg and sprinkle sesame seeds over them for added crunch and flavor.
  7. Place the calzones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
  8. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Tips for the Best Results

  • Ensure your dough is at room temperature for easy handling.
  • Don’t overfill the calzones; a generous spoonful of filling is perfect.
  • If using homemade dough, let it rest for at least 30 minutes before rolling out.
  • Experiment with different cheeses or add herbs for extra flavor.

Easy Variations

  • Swap the Italian sausage for ground turkey or omit meat for a vegetarian option.
  • Add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a heartier filling.
  • Use different cheese combinations like feta, gouda, or provolone for a unique twist.

What to Serve With It

  • A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
  • Marinara sauce for dipping.
  • Garlic breadsticks for an extra indulgent meal.
  • A side of roasted vegetables for a balanced plate.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the oven method keeps the crust crispier.

Recipe Card

Recipe Name: Savory Calzones Filled with Cheese and Spinach
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield/Servings: 6 calzones
Ingredients:

  • 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 pound Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for brushing

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, chopped spinach, and crumbled Italian sausage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large circle about 1/4 inch thick. Cut the dough into 6 equal pieces, forming circles.
  4. Spoon a generous amount of the cheese and spinach filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edge.
  5. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a semi-circle. Press the edges together to seal, then crimp with a fork for an extra secure seal.
  6. Brush the tops of the calzones with the beaten egg and sprinkle sesame seeds over them for added crunch and flavor.
  7. Place the calzones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
  8. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Notes: Customize your filling with your favorite ingredients for a personal touch!

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