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Pioneer Woman Calzones Recipe

Pioneer Woman Calzones Recipe

Olivia Brooks
Try this Pioneer Woman Calzones Recipe with gooey mozzarella, ricotta, pepperoni, and fresh basil. Crispy, cheesy, and perfect for family dinners!
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian-American Inspired
Servings 4
Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Rolling Pin
  • Baking sheet
  • Pastry brush
  • Knife or pizza cutter
  • Small bowl
  • Cooling rack

Ingredients
  

For the dough:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 packet 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
  • ¾ cup warm water 110°F
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the filling:

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup ricotta cheese
  • ½ cup diced cooked ham
  • ½ cup sliced pepperoni
  • ½ cup cooked Italian sausage crumbled
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
  • ¼ cup fresh basil chopped
  • ½ cup marinara sauce for dipping or spreading inside

For the topping:

  • 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese optional

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means the yeast is active and ready to give your calzones the perfect rise.
  • Mix and Knead: Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until it forms a dough. Transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for 4–5 minutes.
  • Let Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
  • Prepare the Filling: While the dough rises, mix mozzarella, ricotta, ham, pepperoni, Italian sausage, garlic powder, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and chopped basil in a medium bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Roll Out the Dough: Punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Divide it into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle about 8 inches in diameter.
  • Fill the Calzones: Spoon a generous amount of filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Add a spoonful of marinara sauce if desired.
  • Seal the Calzones: Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press edges firmly and crimp with a fork to seal completely.
  • Apply Egg Wash: Brush the top of each calzone with beaten egg for a golden, glossy finish. Sprinkle grated Parmesan if desired.
  • Bake to Perfection: Place calzones on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
  • Cool and Serve: Let the calzones cool for 5 minutes on a wire rack. Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Keyword Pioneer Woman Calzones Recipe