Real Italian Calzones

Make a restaurant-worthy Italian dinner in the comfort of your own kitchen with this top-rated calzone recipe.?

What Is a Calzone? 

A calzone is a savory Italian turnover. It traditionally consists of a cheesy filling in a leavened dough and is served with marinara sauce on the side. The calzone originated in Naples in the 18th-century.?

Calzone vs. Stromboli

Although ?calzone? and ?stromboli? are often used interchangeably, the two dishes are actually quite different. Here?s how:?

• Calzones have Italian origins and are sealed with a fork. The sauce is traditionally served on the side.?
• Stromboli, meanwhile, originated in the U.S. and are rolled into a spiral. The sauce is usually included in the filling.?

Learn more: What’s the Difference Between a Calzone and a Stromboli?

How to Make Calzones

You?ll find the full, step-by-step recipe below — but here?s a brief overview of what you can expect when you make homemade calzones:?

1. Make the dough, knead, and let rise.
2. Make the filling and chill in the fridge.?
3. Punch the dough down and divide into two pieces.?
4. Roll the dough out into circles and fill.?
5. Fold the dough and use a fork to seal.
6. Brush with a beaten egg and bake until golden brown.?

What to Serve With Calzones

Serve these calzones with your favorite marinara sauce for dipping. They will also pair well with a fresh Italian side salad.  

How to Store Calzones

Store your leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for up to three months.?

Cookdap Community Tips and Praise 

?The dough turned out delicious,? raves Elizabeth Currier. ?Just the right amount of salt and crunch; it had everything you’d want in a crust.?

?This is a marvelous recipe,? according to ozarkdaisygirl. ?I have made it twice and we love it! The first time I didn’t have ricotta cheese but it was still great! The next time I did add it and it was wonderful!?

?By far my favorite calzone recipe,? says Camille Brandenburg. ?It tastes better than the calzones in restaurants. We always add in olives, spinach, garlic and it?s one of our favorite midweek meals.?