Sausage & Cheese-Stuffed Calzone Recipe

Nothing beats the comfort of biting into a warm, golden pocket bursting with savory goodness, and that is exactly what the Sausage & Cheese-Stuffed Calzone delivers. This delightful handheld twist on classic pizza brings together a beautifully crisp dough envelope hugging a molten mixture of spicy sausage, creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and fragrant herbs. Every bite carries the perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a meal that feels indulgent but comes together with surprising ease. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or impressing friends, this Sausage & Cheese-Stuffed Calzone is a sure crowd-pleaser that feels like a hug from the inside out.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, familiar ingredients that play vital roles in creating the irresistible taste and texture of the calzones. Each component adds dimension — from the chewy yet crispy outer crust to the creamy, savory filling that melts in your mouth.

• Pizza dough: The foundation of your calzone, providing a soft, chewy crust that crisps up beautifully when baked.
• Ricotta (½ cup): Adds a rich, creamy texture that balances the boldness of the sausage perfectly.
• Mozzarella (½ cup): Melts into luscious gooeyness, creating that classic cheese pull everyone loves.
• Cooked sausage (½ cup): Packed with savory spices, it brings hearty flavor and a satisfying meaty bite.
• Oregano (1 tsp): Sprinkled in for a hint of herbaceous warmth that ties all ingredients together.
• Egg for brushing: Brushed on the crust before baking to achieve that beautiful golden, glossy finish.

How to Make Sausage & Cheese-Stuffed Calzone

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by combining the cooked sausage, ricotta, mozzarella, and oregano in a bowl. Mixing these while the sausage is still warm helps the cheese begin to soften, ensuring a wonderfully creamy filling once baked. This is the heart of your calzone’s flavor, so don’t rush this step—make sure the cheese and herbs are evenly distributed throughout.

Step 2: Shape the Dough

Roll out your pizza dough into circles about 6–8 inches in diameter. This size creates a perfect handheld calzone that’s easy to eat while still being generous enough to hold plenty of filling. A slightly thick border will help with sealing later on, so resist over-rolling to paper-thin perfection here.

Step 3: Fill and Fold

Place a generous spoonful of the sausage and cheese mixture onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a clear border around the edge. Then fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges firmly to seal. Use your fingers or a fork to crimp the edges for extra security and a decorative touch. This step is essential to keep all that lovely molten filling inside.

Step 4: Egg Wash and Bake

Before popping your calzones into the oven, brush each one with beaten egg. This will give your Sausage & Cheese-Stuffed Calzone that irresistible golden sparkle and a slight crunch on the outside. Bake in a preheated 200°C oven for approximately 25 minutes, or until the crust is beautifully browned and crisp.

How to Serve Sausage & Cheese-Stuffed Calzone

Garnishes

A light sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil adds a burst of color and freshness right before serving. For the brave, a drizzle of chili oil or a side of marinara sauce can elevate your calzone to a whole new level of flavor fun.

Side Dishes

Pair your calzones with a crisp garden salad or a bowl of minestrone for a balanced meal. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread also complement the rich, cheesy filling perfectly and create a hearty, well-rounded plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice each calzone diagonally and fan out the pieces on a rustic wooden board to showcase the melty cheese and sausage filling. Serve with small ramekins of marinara or pesto sauce for dipping, turning your meal into a hands-on, interactive eating experience that’s as fun as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Sausage & Cheese-Stuffed Calzone can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep them whole to prevent the filling from drying out and enjoy them cold or reheated.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked calzones by wrapping each one tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from frozen but expect to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time for thorough baking.

Reheating

Reheat leftover calzones in a preheated oven at 180°C for 10-12 minutes to restore that fresh-baked, crispy crust while warming the filling to gooey perfection. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in this Sausage & Cheese-Stuffed Calzone?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like provolone, fontina, or parmesan to add different flavor notes. Just make sure to keep a good melting cheese like mozzarella for that classic gooey effect.

Is it possible to use store-bought pizza dough for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought pizza dough works wonderfully and can save time. Just make sure to thaw it completely if frozen and handle it gently when rolling out.

Can I make these calzones vegetarian?

Definitely! Substitute the sausage with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even a medley of roasted vegetables to keep things savory and delicious without meat.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking out during baking?

Sealing the edges firmly and crimping them well is key. Avoid overfilling and leave a clear border around the edges when folding so the dough can stick properly.

What’s the best way to achieve a crisp crust?

Brushing the dough with beaten egg before baking creates a beautiful golden crust, while baking at a high temperature helps it become crisp without drying out.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a satisfyingly hearty meal that combines the best of pizza flavors in a fun, portable form, the Sausage & Cheese-Stuffed Calzone is your new go-to. Its balance of crispy crust, savory sausage, and creamy cheese creates a comforting dish that everyone will love. Go ahead and give this recipe a try—you may just find your new favorite way to enjoy pizza!