Italian > Calzones

Ricotta and Sausage Calzone Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound pizza dough
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled sausage
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten

Special Equipment Needed:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a large circle or rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cooked sausage, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

4. Spread the ricotta mixture over half of the pizza dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.

5. Fold the other half of the pizza dough over the ricotta mixture and press the edges together to seal.

6. Use a fork to crimp the edges of the calzone.

7. Brush the beaten egg over the top of the calzone.

8. Cut a few slits in the top of the calzone to allow steam to escape.

9. Place the calzone on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the calzone is golden brown and crispy.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature:
400°F (200°C)
Serving size:
4-6 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 410
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 20g
Sodium: 790mg

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of sausage, you can use cooked and crumbled bacon or ham.
- Instead of ricotta cheese, you can use cottage cheese or cream cheese.
- Instead of mozzarella cheese, you can use provolone or cheddar cheese.

Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers to the ricotta mixture.
- Use different herbs, such as oregano or thyme, instead of basil.
- Make a vegetarian version by omitting the sausage and adding more vegetables, such as spinach or roasted red peppers.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to seal the edges of the calzone well to prevent the filling from leaking out.
- Let the calzone cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
- Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.

Storage Instructions:
- Store leftover calzone in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat, place the calzone in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the calzone on a large cutting board or platter.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves or grated Parmesan cheese.

Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread.

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the calzone is not browning evenly, rotate the baking sheet halfway through the cooking time.
- If the calzone is leaking filling, make sure to seal the edges well and cut fewer slits in the top.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to cook the sausage thoroughly before adding it to the ricotta mixture.
- Store leftover calzone in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.

Food History:
- Calzone is a traditional Italian dish that originated in Naples. It is similar to pizza, but folded over and sealed to create a pocket filled with cheese and other ingredients.

Flavor Profiles:
- The ricotta and sausage calzone is savory and cheesy, with a hint of garlic and basil.

Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the calzone hot and fresh from the oven, with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

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Region: Italian

Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Meaty, Tangy, Herbal, Spicy