Irresistible Homemade Italian Sausage Calzones: Three Cheeses, Roasted Peppers, and a Zesty Dipping Sauce

Prepare to elevate your homemade Italian food game with this incredible Italian Sausage Calzone recipe. Forget takeout – once you experience the rich flavors of savory Italian sausage, sweet roasted red peppers, crisp red onion, and a decadent blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Pecorino Romano cheeses, all encased in a perfectly golden, chewy crust, you’ll be ruined for every other pizza joint. This recipe, complete with a vibrant, zesty homemade dipping sauce, delivers an unparalleled culinary experience that is surprisingly simple to achieve.

Why You Will Love This Italian Sausage Calzone Recipe

There are countless reasons why this Italian sausage calzone will become a staple in your kitchen. First and foremost, it features our incredibly user-friendly homemade pizza dough. This isn’t just any dough; it’s designed to be pliable, forgiving, and yields an exceptionally delicious crust that’s both tender and crisp in all the right places. The fresh, high-quality dough provides the perfect canvas for a symphony of fillings.

Beyond the fantastic crust, the filling itself is a masterpiece. We’ve combined robust Italian sausage, carefully balanced with the sweetness of roasted red peppers and the subtle bite of red onion. When these ingredients melt into a creamy, stretchy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Pecorino Romano cheeses, every bite is an explosion of authentic Italian flavor. All the ingredients required are readily available at your local grocery store, making this gourmet-level dish surprisingly accessible.

This recipe is also incredibly practical, yielding four generously sized calzones. This makes it ideal for feeding a family, entertaining guests, or preparing delicious meals ahead of time. You can easily bake a few now and freeze the rest for quick weeknight dinners or unexpected cravings. Furthermore, the versatility of calzones means you can effortlessly customize the fillings to suit your personal preferences, experimenting with different meats, vegetables, or cheese combinations.

Finally, we’ve included a phenomenal dipping sauce recipe that truly elevates the entire experience. This rich, savory, and slightly sweet sauce is the perfect accompaniment, adding another layer of flavor and moisture that makes each bite even more satisfying. We highly recommend making this homemade sauce; it’s the secret ingredient that takes these calzones from great to truly unforgettable.

Essential Ingredients for Your Calzones and Dipping Sauce

Crafting the perfect Italian sausage calzone and its accompanying dipping sauce requires a selection of fresh, flavorful ingredients. While you can always get creative with your fillings, certain core components are non-negotiable for achieving that classic, mouth-watering taste. You’ll definitely need a quality pizza dough and a trio of cheeses: creamy ricotta, salty Pecorino Romano, and melty mozzarella. These cheeses form the gooey, irresistible heart of your calzone.

For this particular recipe, we’re crafting a delicious Italian sausage calzone, and the key additions are flavorful Italian sausage, thinly sliced red onion, and tender roasted red peppers. This combination creates a perfect harmony of savory, sweet, and tangy notes that will have you savoring every single bite. The dipping sauce, which we consider almost a requirement, uses crushed tomatoes as its base, along with grated onion, minced garlic, sugar, kosher salt, Italian seasoning, and a touch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Together, these ingredients promise a culinary adventure that will redefine your appreciation for calzones.

How To Make This Amazing Italian Sausage Calzone

Creating these incredible Italian Sausage Calzones involves a few distinct yet straightforward steps: preparing the homemade dipping sauce, making or preparing the calzone dough, assembling the calzones with their delicious filling, and finally, baking them to golden perfection. While there are several components, each step is designed to be simple and enjoyable.

The overall timeline can vary depending on whether you opt for our homemade pizza dough and dipping sauce or choose convenient store-bought alternatives. Making everything from scratch offers the most authentic and flavorful experience, but using pre-made components can significantly reduce your preparation time if you’re in a rush. Regardless of your choice, the result will be a truly satisfying meal.

Crafting the Perfect Calzone Dough

The foundation of any great calzone is, without a doubt, its dough. A truly excellent dough offers the perfect texture – crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and strong enough to hold all the delicious fillings without becoming soggy. While store-bought pizza dough is an acceptable shortcut, we wholeheartedly recommend investing a little time in making our Easy Homemade Pizza Dough From Scratch. It’s designed to be incredibly easy to work with and yields superior results.

If you choose to embark on the rewarding journey of making your own dough, plan for approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. This includes the time needed for mixing, kneading, and allowing the dough to proof, which is crucial for developing its flavor and texture. Once your dough has proofed beautifully, you will divide it into four equal portions. Our pizza dough recipe typically yields enough for two pizzas, but for calzones, we’ll divide it into four smaller, more manageable pieces, perfect for individual servings.

For those opting for the convenience of store-bought pizza dough, simply follow the package instructions for preparation and handling. Ensure it’s brought to room temperature before rolling to make it more pliable.

Preparing the Zesty Dipping Sauce

A truly exceptional calzone deserves an equally impressive dipping sauce. Our homemade sauce is vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, adding a crucial layer of taste to your calzone experience. It’s far superior to any store-bought variety and comes together while your dough is proofing or cooling.

While the onions and garlic are gently cooking, prepare your tomato base. In the can of crushed tomatoes (or a separate bowl if you prefer), blend in the kosher salt, sugar, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. A convenient way to do this is by using an immersion blender directly in the can, ensuring all the flavors are thoroughly combined and the sauce has a smooth consistency.

Once the onions are translucent and tender, pour the blended tomato sauce into the saucepan. Stir everything together well, ensuring the onions and garlic are fully incorporated into the sauce. Bring the sauce to a gentle bubble over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer for approximately 30 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency. You’ll know it’s ready when you can run a spatula through the sauce, and it leaves a distinct trail that doesn’t immediately fill back in.

Once thickened, reduce the heat to its lowest setting to keep the sauce warm until you’re ready to serve your freshly baked calzones. This sauce can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making your calzone assembly even quicker on busy days.

Assembling Your Flavor-Packed Italian Sausage Calzones

Now that your dough is ready and your dipping sauce is simmering, it’s time to bring these delicious calzones to life! The assembly process is where all the wonderful flavors come together. First, we’ll prepare the star filling: the Italian sausage.

Next, add the Italian sausage to the skillet. Initially, break it up into larger clumps, allowing it to brown nicely on one side to develop a deeper flavor. Once browned, break it into smaller, more even pieces. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Continue cooking until the Italian sausage is thoroughly cooked through, with no pink remaining. If there’s any excessive grease, drain it before setting the sausage aside to cool slightly. This cooling step makes it easier to handle when assembling the calzones and prevents it from overheating the dough.

Now, let’s turn our attention to the dough, the delicious wrapper for all our fillings.

A helpful trick to maintain a relatively round shape is to roll the dough from the center outwards in all directions, rotating the dough frequently, similar to how you would prepare a pizza base. Pay particular attention to the edges, ensuring they are not too thick, as they will form the sealed crust, unlike the thicker crust of a traditional pizza.

Carefully spoon one-quarter of the cooked Italian sausage onto one side of the dough, slightly off-center. This typically amounts to about 1/4 to 1/3 cup per calzone. Then, layer approximately 2 tablespoons each of the roasted red peppers and thinly sliced red onion on top of the sausage. Finish with 2 tablespoons of creamy ricotta cheese, 2 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella, and 1 tablespoon of grated Pecorino Romano cheese. Distribute the ingredients evenly to ensure a balanced flavor in every bite.

Firmly press the edges of the dough together to create a tight seal. Then, starting from one end, make small, decorative folds all the way around the curved seam, creating a crimped edge. This not only helps to seal the calzone securely but also adds a beautiful rustic touch. Don’t worry if your crimping isn’t absolutely perfect – it will still look wonderful and taste amazing once baked!

Repeat this assembly process for the remaining three portions of dough until you have four beautifully filled calzones. At this stage, you have the option to freeze them for future enjoyment. To freeze, place the assembled calzones on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

Baking Your Calzones to Golden Perfection

The final step in this culinary journey is baking your calzones until they are golden brown and bubbling with cheesy goodness. This stage ensures a crispy crust and a perfectly melted, flavorful interior.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. For an added layer of texture and a slight crunch on the bottom, you can optionally sprinkle a thin layer of semolina flour onto the parchment paper before placing the calzones. Arrange the assembled calzones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.

Brush the tops of the calzones generously with the egg wash. This promotes a rich, golden-brown crust and a lovely glossy finish. Then, using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors, carefully cut a few small vents into the top of each calzone. These vents are essential as they allow steam to escape during baking, preventing the calzones from bursting and ensuring they cook evenly. For an extra touch of flavor, you can sprinkle a little more Pecorino Romano cheese over the tops before baking. Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven.

Bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the calzones are beautifully golden brown all over. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time, as oven temperatures can vary. Once baked, remove the calzones from the oven and allow them to rest on the baking sheet for about 4-5 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the cheese and fillings to set, preventing them from oozing out when cut and ensuring every bite is perfect.

Expert Tips for the Best Italian Sausage Calzones

To ensure your Italian Sausage Calzones turn out perfectly every time, here are some invaluable tips gathered from experience:

• Speed Up the Process: While homemade dough and sauce are highly recommended for the best flavor, don’t hesitate to use quality store-bought pizza dough and a good jarred marinara sauce if you’re short on time. This will significantly cut down on prep time without sacrificing too much on taste.
• Perfectly Cooked Onions: For the filling, slice the red onion thinly. This ensures it cooks down sufficiently within the calzone, becoming tender and sweet rather than retaining a raw, crunchy texture. Alternatively, you can pre-sauté the diced red onion with the sausage for a few minutes before adding it to the calzone to ensure it’s perfectly soft.
• Make Ahead Dipping Sauce: The dipping sauce can be prepared a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to serve. Making it ahead allows the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in an even more delicious sauce.
• Don’t Overfill: It’s tempting to stuff your calzones with as much filling as possible, but overfilling is the primary cause of leaks and soggy crusts. Stick to the recommended amounts to ensure proper sealing and even cooking.
• Ensure Sausage is Drained: After cooking the Italian sausage, make sure to thoroughly drain any excess fat. Too much grease can make the calzone crust greasy and heavy.
• Room Temperature Dough: Always work with dough that has come to room temperature. Cold dough is stiff and difficult to roll out evenly, making it prone to tearing.
• Proper Sealing is Key: Take your time when sealing the edges of the calzone. A firm, crimped seal prevents the filling from escaping and keeps the moisture inside, resulting in a more flavorful and visually appealing finished product.
• Rest Before Slicing: Allow the baked calzones to rest for 4-5 minutes after removing them from the oven. This brief rest period allows the internal temperature to stabilize and the melted cheese to set, preventing it from oozing out excessively when you cut into it.

Delicious Variations to Explore

While this Italian Sausage Calzone recipe is incredibly satisfying on its own, the beauty of calzones lies in their versatility. The filling possibilities are endless, allowing you to customize them to your heart’s content. Here are some other tasty variations to inspire your culinary creativity:

• Classic Pepperoni Calzone: For a beloved classic, swap out the Italian sausage for thinly sliced pepperoni. Enhance this traditional choice by adding some black olives, sautéed mushrooms, and finely diced green bell peppers. This combination offers a familiar yet incredibly satisfying flavor profile that’s perfect for pizza lovers.
• Four Cheese Calzone: If you’re a true cheese connoisseur, this variation is a must-try. Combine creamy ricotta, melted mozzarella, sharp provolone, and grated Parmesan cheese for an incredibly rich and decadent cheese calzone. For an extra burst of fresh flavor, mix in fresh herbs like chopped basil and oregano.
• Spinach and Feta Calzone: For a delightful Mediterranean twist, combine fresh or thoroughly thawed and drained frozen spinach with crumbled feta cheese, ricotta, and mozzarella. Add a touch of minced garlic to deepen the flavors. The tangy feta pairs wonderfully with the earthy spinach, creating a lighter yet incredibly flavorful calzone.
• Chicken & Broccoli Calzone: Use cooked, shredded chicken breast along with blanched and chopped broccoli florets. Add a mixture of mozzarella and cheddar cheese, seasoned with a hint of garlic powder and onion powder for a comforting and hearty option.
• Vegetable Lover’s Calzone: Load up your calzone with your favorite sautéed vegetables. Think mushrooms, bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and black olives. Use a mix of mozzarella and provolone for a gooey, veggie-packed delight.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Other Delicious Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed crafting these homemade Italian Sausage Calzones, you’re in for a treat with these other fantastic recipes that celebrate simple, flavorful cooking. From more delicious dough creations to comforting pasta dishes, these recipes are perfect for expanding your culinary repertoire and satisfying those hearty Italian cravings.

Italian Sausage Calzone Recipe

Whip up a delicious Italian Sausage Calzone filled with three cheeses, roasted red peppers, and onions. Easy to make and perfect for any craving!

5 from 1 vote

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Course:
Main

Cuisine:
American, Italian

Prep Time:

10 minutes
minutes

Cook Time:

30 minutes
minutes

Homemade Dough Option:

2 hours
hours
30 minutes
minutes

Servings:
4

Calories:

883
kcal

Ingredients

 

Italian Sausage Calzone

• 
  
  1
  Pizza dough
  
  
• 
  
  1
  lb
  Italian sausage
  
  
• 
  
  1
  tbsp
  Olive oil
  
  
• 
  
  1/2
  Onion
  diced
  
  
• 
  
  1/2
  cup
  Roasted red peppers
  patted dry and diced
  
  
• 
  
  1/2
  cup
  Red onion
  sliced or diced
  
  
• 
  
  1/2
  cup
  Ricotta cheese
  
  
• 
  
  1/2
  cup
  Mozzarella cheese
  
  
• 
  
  4
  tbsp
  Romano cheese
  
  

Dipping Sauce

• 
  
  28
  oz
  Crushed tomatoes
  
  
• 
  
  1/2
  Onion
  grated
  
  
• 
  
  3
  Garlic cloves
  minced
  
  
• 
  
  1
  tbsp
  Sugar
  
  
• 
  
  1
  tsp
  Kosher salt
  
  
• 
  
  1
  tbsp
  Italian seasoning
  
  
• 
  
  1/4
  tsp
  Red pepper flakes
  
  

Egg Wash

• 
  
  1
  Egg
  
  
• 
  
  1
  tbsp
  Water
  
  

Instructions

• Prepare Dough: Make homemade pizza dough or use store-bought. Divide into 4 equal pieces and let it proof.
  1 Pizza dough
• Make Dipping Sauce: Sauté grated onion and garlic in olive oil. Blend tomatoes, salt, sugar, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Add to the pan and simmer for 30 minutes until thickened.
  28 oz Crushed tomatoes,
  1/2 Onion,
  1 tbsp Sugar,
  1 tsp Kosher salt,
  1 tbsp Italian seasoning,
  1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes,
  3 Garlic cloves
• Cook Sausage: Heat olive oil in a skillet, cook onions for 2 minutes. Add sausage, break into pieces, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
  1 lb Italian sausage,
  1 tbsp Olive oil,
  1/2 Onion
• Assemble Calzones: Roll each dough piece into an 8-9 inch circle. Add sausage, roasted red peppers, red onion, ricotta, mozzarella, and Romano cheese, leaving a 1-inch border.
  1/2 cup Roasted red peppers,
  1/2 cup Red onion,
  1/2 cup Ricotta cheese,
  1/2 cup Mozzarella cheese,
  4 tbsp Romano cheese
• Fold and Seal: Fold dough over filling to form a half-circle. Press edges to seal and crimp with a fork.
• Bake: Preheat oven to 450°F. Place calzones on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with egg wash, cut vents, and bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.
  1 Egg,
  1 tbsp Water
• Serve: Let cool for 4-5 minutes, then serve with dipping sauce.

Notes

Store calzones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes for best texture, or microwave for a quick option.

Nutrition

Calories:
883
kcal

|

Carbohydrates:
73
g

|

Protein:
36
g

|

Fat:
51
g

|

Saturated Fat:
19
g

|

Polyunsaturated Fat:
6
g

|

Monounsaturated Fat:
21
g

|

Cholesterol:
118
mg

|

Sodium:
2797
mg

|

Potassium:
1038
mg

|

Fiber:
7
g

|

Sugar:
20
g

|

Vitamin A:
830
IU

|

Vitamin C:
33
mg

|

Calcium:
319
mg

|

Iron:
8
mg