If you love pizza, you’ll fall in love with calzones! In this complete guide, you’ll learn how to make a calzone recipe that’s easy, customizable, and baked to golden perfection.
🧀 What is a Calzone?
A calzone is a folded Italian pizza that originated in Naples. It resembles a half-moon pocket filled with a mix of cheeses, meats, vegetables, and tomato sauce. Unlike pizza, the toppings are wrapped inside, creating a portable meal that's crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside.
Calzones are often mistaken for strombolis, but the main difference lies in the folding technique and shape. Calzones are folded once (like a taco), while strombolis are rolled.
🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you need to make a delicious homemade calzone:
For the Dough (or use store-bought pizza dough):
2½ cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
¾ cup warm water
1 tsp sugar
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
For the Filling:
½ cup pizza sauce or marinara
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup ricotta cheese (optional for creaminess)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup sliced pepperoni, cooked sausage, or your favorite meat
¼ cup chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach
1 tsp dried Italian herbs
For Topping:
1 egg (for egg wash) or 1 tbsp olive oil
Sprinkle of Parmesan and dried oregano (optional)
👨🍳 How to Make Calzone Recipe – Step-by-Step
Follow these simple steps to create the perfect homemade calzone:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough (Skip if using store-bought)
1. Mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Knead into a soft dough.
3. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour in a warm spot.
Step 2: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 3: Roll the Dough
Divide dough into 2 or 4 equal balls.
Roll each into a circle, around ¼ inch thick.
Step 4: Add the Filling
On one half of each circle, spread pizza sauce.
Layer with mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, and your desired meats or veggies.
Leave a 1-inch border for sealing.
Step 5: Fold and Seal
Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
Press the edges firmly and crimp with a fork.
Cut 2–3 small slits on top to let steam escape.
Step 6: Add Topping and Bake
Brush the top with egg wash or olive oil.
Sprinkle with Parmesan and herbs.
Bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm with extra pizza sauce or garlic butter for dipping.
🥘 Calzone Variations to Try
You can customize your calzone based on your preference:
Vegetarian Calzone: Mushrooms, spinach, olives, zucchini, ricotta
Meat Lovers Calzone: Pepperoni, Italian sausage, ham, ground beef
Cheese Explosion: Mozzarella, ricotta, provolone, Parmesan
Breakfast Calzone: Scrambled eggs, bacon, cheese, and onions
💡 Tips for the Perfect Calzone
Don’t overfill the calzone – it will leak or tear.
Use low-moisture mozzarella to avoid sogginess.
Seal the edges tightly to prevent filling from escaping.
For a crispier crust, bake on a pizza stone or preheated tray.
Allow to cool slightly before cutting to keep the cheese intact.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping the vent holes – steam buildup can cause bursting.
Using raw veggies with high water content – always sauté or drain first.
Undercooking – ensure the calzone is deep golden brown.
Not letting the dough rest – rushed dough results in a chewy texture.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze calzones?
Yes! Wrap cooled calzones in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until hot.
What’s the best cheese for calzone?
Mozzarella is classic, but ricotta adds creaminess, and Parmesan boosts flavor. Mix for the best result.
Can I make calzones in an air fryer?
Absolutely. Air fry at 180°C (350°F) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden.
How long do calzones last in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster for best texture.
📄 Printable Recipe Card
How to Make Calzone Recipe
Prep Time Cook Time Total Time Servings
20 mins 15 mins 35 mins 2–4
Ingredients:
(See full list above)
Instructions:
1. Make or prepare pizza dough.
2. Roll into circles and fill with sauce, cheese, and toppings.
3. Fold, seal, and vent.
4. Brush and bake until golden.
5. Serve warm with dipping sauce.
🎥 Watch the Recipe in Action
https://youtu.be/Br1dVzIXbaQ?si=Ph9OcnX7oDNS6gpO
🧁 Final Thoughts
Learning how to make calzone recipe at home is easier than you think—and it’s endlessly customizable. Whether you're making a family dinner or prepping for the week, calzones are a flavorful, filling, and fun meal that everyone will love.
👉 Tried this recipe? Leave a comment and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to share it on Pinterest or tag us on Instagram!
