If you are craving something comforting, cheesy, and utterly delicious, then this Cheese-filled Calzones with Ricotta, Mozzarella, and Parmesan Recipe is exactly what you need. These golden pockets of goodness combine the creamy smoothness of ricotta, the gooey stretch of mozzarella, and the sharp nuttiness of Parmesan, all wrapped in a perfectly baked dough. They are the ideal meal for sharing with friends or keeping all to yourself because once you taste them, they’ll quickly become a favorite go-to recipe in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is simple but crucial, as each one plays a big role in creating a balanced flavor and irresistible texture. From the tender dough to the flavorful cheeses and tangy sauce, every component has its place.
- Prepared pizza dough: Use homemade or store-bought dough, which serves as the soft, chewy base for the calzone.
- Mozzarella cheese (1 cup shredded): Melts beautifully to give that classic stringy, gooey texture inside.
- Ricotta cheese (1 cup): Adds creaminess and lightness, balancing the richer cheeses.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance all the cheesy flavors.
- Pizza sauce (1/2 cup plus extra for dipping): Brings a bright, herby tomato note that cuts through the richness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled inside and on top for a salty, nutty finish.
- Olive oil for brushing: Gives the crust a golden color and a slight crispness.
How to Make Cheese-filled Calzones with Ricotta, Mozzarella, and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to a sizzling 450 degrees Fahrenheit. If you have a pizza stone, place it inside now to get it hot and ready—this helps the calzones cook evenly and develop that beautiful, crisp bottom crust.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
Divide the prepared pizza dough into two equal parts. Lightly flour your surface, then roll each piece out into a circle about one-quarter inch thick. This gives you enough dough to envelope the filling without being too bulky.
Step 3: Layer on the Sauce
Spread a thin, even layer of pizza sauce over half of each dough circle, stopping about half an inch from the edge. This tomato base adds moisture and flavor, ensuring each bite has that familiar pizza tang.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses and Season
Divide the ricotta cheese evenly over the sauced half, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella on top. Finish by scattering grated Parmesan over everything and seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. This combination brings the perfect mix of creamy, melty, and sharp notes.
Step 5: Seal the Calzone
Fold the empty half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal, then roll and crimp them with your fingers for a tight closure that keeps all the cheesy filling inside while baking.
Step 6: Prep for Baking
Brush the tops of your calzones with olive oil, which helps them brown beautifully. Sprinkle a little more Parmesan on top for added flavor and a lovely crust finish.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Carefully transfer the calzones onto the hot pizza stone or a baking sheet if you don’t have one. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and crisp. This high heat baking seals in all the warmth and flavor.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the calzones rest for a few minutes so the cheese inside sets slightly and is safe to enjoy. Serve warm, accompanied by extra pizza sauce for dipping. The moment you bite in, you’ll taste why this Cheese-filled Calzones with Ricotta, Mozzarella, and Parmesan Recipe is such a crowd-pleaser.
How to Serve Cheese-filled Calzones with Ricotta, Mozzarella, and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves or a light sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes add a burst of aroma and gentle heat that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheeses. A drizzle of good quality olive oil over the top can elevate the flavors even more.
Side Dishes
To round out your meal, serve these calzones alongside a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables or a simple bowl of marinara for extra dipping also make excellent companions that keep the meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the calzones into smaller, appetizer-sized wedges for parties. You can also experiment with tossing in fresh herbs or sautéed spinach inside the filling to add pops of green for both color and nutrition.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover calzones tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days, making a fantastic next-day lunch or quick dinner solution.
Freezing
To freeze, place the uncooked calzones on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. This prevents them from sticking. They can be frozen for up to one month and baked directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
Reheat your calzones in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 to 12 minutes to retain that crispy crust. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the dough soggy and the cheese rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use other cheeses in this Cheese-filled Calzones with Ricotta, Mozzarella, and Parmesan Recipe?
Absolutely! While ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan create a perfect trio, feel free to mix in fontina, provolone, or even a bit of goat cheese for different flavor profiles.
Is it necessary to use pizza dough, or can I substitute with other dough?
Pizza dough works best for its texture and elasticity, but you can use bread dough or even puff pastry if you prefer a different crust style, though the final texture will change.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
Try swapping the cheeses with plant-based alternatives and use a vegan pizza dough. There are many rich, creamy vegan cheeses available that melt nicely and can replicate the flavor balance.
Do I need a pizza stone to bake calzones?
Not at all. A pizza stone helps achieve a crispier bottom crust but a regular baking sheet works perfectly fine. Just preheat your oven fully to get the best results.
Can I add fillings other than cheese?
Definitely! Adding sautéed mushrooms, pepperoni, cooked sausage, or even fresh spinach can add extra flavor and texture, making the calzones more substantial.
Final Thoughts
This Cheese-filled Calzones with Ricotta, Mozzarella, and Parmesan Recipe is such a joy to make and eat, bringing warmth and cheesy comfort in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or impressing guests with a homemade treat, these calzones will not disappoint. Give this recipe a try—you might just find yourself making it over and over again!
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Cheese-filled Calzones with Ricotta, Mozzarella, and Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 calzones
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This classic calzone recipe features a crispy, golden-brown crust filled with creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, tangy pizza sauce, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a comforting Italian-inspired meal, these calzones are easy to prepare and deliver a delicious combination of flavors with every bite. Ideal for a quick dinner or a fun weekend cooking project.
Ingredients
Calzone Dough
- 1 prepared pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
Filling
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce (plus extra for dipping)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for filling and topping)
Finishing
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F (232 degrees C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven during preheating to get it hot and ready for baking.
- Roll Dough: Divide the prepared pizza dough into two equal parts. On a floured surface, roll each piece into a circle about 1/4-inch thick, ensuring an even thickness for proper cooking.
- Add Sauce: Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce on one half of each dough circle, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edge to seal the calzone later.
- Layer Cheeses and Season: Evenly spread half of the ricotta cheese over the sauce, followed by half of the shredded mozzarella. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Fold and Seal: Carefully fold the dough over the cheese and sauce to form a semi-circle. Press the edges firmly together, then roll and crimp the edges with your fingers to ensure a tight seal and prevent filling from leaking out while baking.
- Prepare for Baking: Brush the top of each calzone with olive oil for a golden finish and sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese over the top for added flavor.
- Bake: Transfer the calzones onto the preheated pizza stone if using, or place them on a baking sheet. Bake in the oven for about 15 minutes, or until the calzones develop a golden-brown crust.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the calzones to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with extra pizza sauce on the side for dipping, and enjoy your homemade calzone delight.
Notes
- Using a pizza stone helps achieve a crispier crust but is optional.
- Make sure to seal the edges well to prevent filling leakage during baking.
- Calzones can be filled with other ingredients like cooked vegetables, pepperoni, or sausage according to your preference.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven for best results.
