Ingredients
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2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active Dry yeastFor the dough
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1 1/2 cups (about 110°F/45°C) Warm waterFor the dough
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4 cups All-purpose flourFor the dough
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1 teaspoon SaltFor the dough
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2 tablespoons Olive OilFor the dough
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1 cup Marinara sauceFor the filling
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2 cups Mozzarella CheeseFor the filling
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1/2 cup, grated Parmesan CheeseFor the filling
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1 cup, chopped (such as bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, spinach, etc.) VegetablesFor the filling
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1/2 cup, sliced Pepperoni, cooked sausage, or cooked chickenFor the filling
Directions
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Add more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat as well.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten each ball into a 1/4-inch thick circle.
- Place a spoonful of marinara sauce in the center of each dough circle, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Add your desired fillings on top of the sauce, such as shredded mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped vegetables, and any meats you’re using.
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Use your fingers to crimp and seal the edges of the calzones.
- Transfer the calzones to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased baking sheet.
- Use a sharp knife to make a few small slits in the top of each calzone to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Bake the calzones in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
- Remove the calzones from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your homemade calzones!
