Easy Homemade Pizza Dough Calzones

Try this Easy Homemade Pizza Dough Calzones recipe, or contribute your own.

Easy Homemade Pizza Dough Calzones
Easy Homemade Pizza Dough Calzones

Try this Easy Homemade Pizza Dough Calzones recipe, or contribute your own.

  • Preparing Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Served Person: 3
  • Carbohydrate 4.18080222222222 g
  • Cholesterol 0 mg
  • Fat 2.47472444540934 g
  • Fiber 1.94722215101454 g
  • Protein 2.03336666666667 g
  • Saturated Fat 0.340764444577677 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 large calzones or 4 smaller (234g)
  • Sodium 432.60811111113 mg
  • Sugar 2.23358007120768 g
  • Trans Fat 0.123681111137241 g
  • Calories 42 calories

Step-by-step

  • Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
  • Pizza dough: In a large bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes or until it turns foamy.
  • Add remaining ingredients and mix well.
  • Remove dough and knead it with flour (enough so it doesn't stick).
  • Let sit for about 10 minutes.
  • Divide dough into 3 or 4 (depending on size you'd like) balls.
  • On a well-floured surface (I used two baking sheets), take each ball and roll it out into a circle.
  • Place pasta sauce on the middle of the dough leaving a one inch space from the edge.
  • Place your pizza fillings over the pasta sauce, fold the dough in half and fold the edges over and pinch them together (see photo).
  • Bake for 15-20 minutes.
  • Enjoy!

My Go-To Weeknight Meal: Easy Homemade Calzones

As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Finding quick, delicious, and satisfying meals that don't involve takeout is a constant quest. That's why I've developed a love affair with homemade calzones. They're far more manageable than a whole pizza, offering a perfect balance of convenience and culinary satisfaction. This recipe, for easy homemade pizza dough calzones, has become a staple in our weekly meal rotation, a true lifesaver on those chaotic evenings. The best part? My kids adore them!

The beauty of this calzone recipe lies in its simplicity. Forget fussy techniques and complicated ingredients; this recipe is designed for the everyday cook. The dough comes together quickly, and the filling options are limitless, making it incredibly versatile. One night we might enjoy classic pepperoni and mozzarella, while another night we might experiment with roasted vegetables and pesto. The possibilities truly are endless. I often let the kids help with the assembly—it's a fantastic way to involve them in the cooking process and get them excited about trying new flavors. The sense of accomplishment they feel after creating their own mini-pizzas is priceless.

Beyond the convenience, this recipe offers a welcome opportunity for creativity. I love experimenting with different sauces, cheeses, and vegetables. Using leftover roast chicken or other cooked meats allows for a quick and delicious meal. The wonderful thing about calzones is that they are completely customizable. You can even get creative with the dough itself, adding herbs or spices for an extra layer of flavor. It’s a testament to its adaptability that this recipe can easily cater to different tastes and dietary needs—from vegetarian options to meat-lover's delight.

More than just a meal, making calzones together has become a cherished family ritual. The process of kneading the dough, assembling the fillings, and watching them bake in the oven creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. It's a reminder that even amidst the chaos of everyday life, there's always time for simple pleasures and shared experiences. The aroma alone is enough to transform a busy weeknight into something special.

So, if you're looking for a quick, easy, and delicious meal that the whole family will enjoy, I highly recommend giving this homemade calzone recipe a try. It's a weeknight winner that's sure to become a family favorite—just like it has in my home. The ease of preparation, the delicious results, and the shared experience of cooking together make it a recipe worth cherishing.

Tips and variations for your calzones:

  • Dough variations: Experiment with different types of flour, adding herbs or spices to the dough for extra flavor.
  • Sauce options: Try different sauces like pesto, Alfredo, or even a spicy marinara.
  • Cheese choices: Don't be afraid to get creative with your cheese choices; mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan all work beautifully.
  • Veggie options: Use your favorite vegetables like onions, peppers, mushrooms, spinach, and more.
  • Meat options: Cooked ground beef, sausage, or even leftover chicken can add protein and flavor.
  • Make it ahead: The dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Enjoy the process and the delicious results! Happy cooking!