Classic Cheese Calzone

Ingredients

• 1 pound pizza dough, store-bought or homemade
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for brushing
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, for dusting
• 1 cup marinara sauce, for dipping

Method

1. 1

   Remove the pizza dough from the refrigerator and let it rest at room temperature, covered, until pliable.

   30:00 · Dough resting
2. 2

   Preheat the oven to 450°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

3. 3

   In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, parsley, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly combined.

4. 4

   Divide the rested dough into 4 equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll or stretch each portion into a 7-inch round about 1/4 inch thick.

5. 5

   Spoon about 1/2 cup of the cheese filling onto one half of each dough round, leaving a 3/4-inch border.

6. 6

   Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together and crimp with a fork to seal tightly.

7. 7

   Transfer the calzones to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil and cut two small slits in each for steam to escape.

8. 8

   Bake until the crust is deep golden brown and firm to the touch, 18 to 20 minutes.

   18:00 · Baking calzones
9. 9

   Remove from the oven and let the calzones rest for 5 minutes before serving.

   5:00 · Resting before serving
10. 10

    Meanwhile, warm the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.

    5:00 · Warming marinara
11. 11

    Serve the calzones hot with warmed marinara sauce for dipping.