Baked Spinach & Cheese Calzone Recipe
There is something incredibly comforting and satisfying about a Baked Spinach & Cheese Calzone that makes it one of my absolute favorite dishes to whip up whenever I want a warm, cheesy meal with a fresh veggie twist. This folded pizza dough creation is packed with vibrant sautéed spinach and oozy melted mozzarella, creating a perfect harmony of flavors wrapped in a golden, crisp crust. Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or a fun lunch, the Baked Spinach & Cheese Calzone never fails to impress with its simple ingredients and delightful texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is surprisingly simple but essential to achieve that perfect balance in your Baked Spinach & Cheese Calzone. Each ingredient plays a unique role, from the soft, stretchy mozzarella that brings gooeyness to the tender yet flavorful sautéed spinach that adds a lovely pop of color and nutrition.
- Pizza dough: The foundation of the calzone, it should be fresh and elastic to fold easily and bake to a golden crust.
- 1 cup sautéed spinach: Adds vibrant color, nutrients, and a mild, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with cheese.
- 1 cup mozzarella: The melty cheese that delivers the irresistible, gooey texture every calzone needs.
- 1 egg (for brushing): Brushed on the crust to give it that shiny, golden finish when baked.
How to Make Baked Spinach & Cheese Calzone
Step 1: Prepare the filling
Start by sautéing your spinach until it’s just wilted and tender. This not only enhances the flavor but also removes excess moisture so your calzone doesn’t get soggy inside. Let it cool slightly before mixing it with mozzarella to create that perfect filling blend.
Step 2: Roll out the pizza dough
Take your pizza dough and roll it out into a circle large enough to fold over your filling. You want it thin enough to crisp up nicely but sturdy enough to hold the filling without breaking.
Step 3: Assemble the calzone
Spoon the sautéed spinach and mozzarella over half of the dough circle, leaving a border to seal the edges easily. Carefully fold the other half over the filling, then press the edges together firmly to seal your calzone completely and lock in all those delicious ingredients.
Step 4: Brush and bake
Brush the top of your calzone with beaten egg – this simple step is like magic for creating a gorgeous golden crust. Bake it in a preheated oven at 200°C for about 18 to 20 minutes or until it’s puffed, golden, and irresistibly inviting.
How to Serve Baked Spinach & Cheese Calzone
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a few cracked black peppercorns adds a finishing touch that elevates the Baked Spinach & Cheese Calzone’s flavors. Fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil can add a burst of freshness right before serving.
Side Dishes
This calzone pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a bowl of tangy marinara sauce for dipping. Roasted vegetables or a simple tomato salad compliment the richness of the cheese and the earthiness of the spinach perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your calzone into wedges and serve it as an appetizer platter for entertaining. You can also jazz it up by stuffing it with different cheeses or adding a pinch of crushed red pepper inside for a gentle kick. Serving with a warm, herby tomato sauce on the side instantly turns it into a hearty, restaurant-style treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover Baked Spinach & Cheese Calzone tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. It maintains its flavors well and can be a great quick lunch option the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked assembled calzones by placing them on a tray to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for a fresh-from-the-oven experience anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, pop your calzone into a preheated oven at 180°C for 10–15 minutes to restore that crunchy crust and melty center. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the dough chewy and soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out as much moisture as possible from frozen spinach before sautéing to avoid soggy calzones.
What other cheeses work well in a Baked Spinach & Cheese Calzone?
Cheeses like ricotta, provolone, or fontina all complement the spinach beautifully. Feel free to combine them with mozzarella for extra creaminess and flavor complexity.
How do I prevent the calzone from getting soggy?
Cooking the spinach well and removing excess moisture is key. Also, sealing the edges tightly and baking on a preheated stone or baking sheet helps keep the crust crisp.
Can I make this calzone gluten-free?
Yes, using gluten-free pizza dough works perfectly. Just follow the same steps, and you’ll still get a delicious Baked Spinach & Cheese Calzone without compromise.
Is it possible to add protein to this calzone?
Definitely! Adding cooked chicken, Italian sausage, or even crumbled tofu can turn this vegetarian dish into a more substantial meal without losing its charm.
Final Thoughts
Bringing together simple ingredients with a little love, the Baked Spinach & Cheese Calzone is truly a winner for anyone craving a warm, cheesy, and wholesome meal. It’s easy enough for any home cook to prepare but special enough to feel indulgent. I hope you give this recipe a try and let it become one of your go-to dishes as it has for mine. Happy baking and even happier eating!
