Quarterback Calzones

Get ready for game day or a cozy family dinner with these irresistible Quarterback Calzones! Brimming with gooey mozzarella, creamy ricotta, and rich Parmesan cheese, these homemade hand-held delights are loaded with savory fillings like spicy Italian sausage and pepperoni slices, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Encased in golden, flaky pizza dough and brushed with a glossy egg wash for a professional finish, these calzones are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare in under an hour. Perfectly seasoned with garlic, oregano, and a pinch of black pepper, they’re served alongside warm marinara sauce for the ultimate dipping experience. Ideal for sharing, these hearty calzones will be the MVP at any gathering or casual meal.

Nutriscore Rating: 57/100

Prep Time:25 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb Pizza dough
• 2 cups Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Ricotta cheese
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 0.75 cup Pepperoni slices
• 1 cup Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup Marinara sauce
• 1 large Egg, beaten
• 1 tbsp Olive oil
• 0.5 tsp Garlic powder
• 0.5 tsp Dried oregano
• 0.25 tsp Salt
• 0.25 tsp Black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

Divide the pizza dough into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle approximately 6-7 inches in diameter.

Step 3

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well blended.

Step 4

Spread 2-3 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture on one half of each dough circle, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edge.

Step 5

Top the ricotta mixture with an even layer of pepperoni slices and cooked Italian sausage.

Step 6

Fold the empty half of the dough circle over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges tightly to seal, then crimp with a fork to ensure they are secure.

Step 7

Brush the tops of the calzones with the beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish.

Step 8

Optional: Use a sharp knife to cut 2-3 small slits in the top of each calzone to allow steam to escape during baking.

Step 9

Transfer the calzones to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.

Step 10

While the calzones are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over low heat.

Step 11

Once the calzones are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 12

Serve the calzones warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1462.2 grams (1462.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3466

Total Fat 218.40g	280%
Saturated Fat 83.30g	417%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.30g
Cholesterol 746mg	249%
Sodium 9048mg	393%
Total Carbohydrate 221.50g	81%
Dietary Fiber 18.70g	67%
Total Sugars 6.20g
Protein 166.20g	332%

Vitamin D 40IU	200%
Calcium 1701mg	131%
Iron 21mg	118%
Potassium 1943mg	41%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 55.9%

Protein: 18.9%

Carbs: 25.2%