There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of a warm breakfast calzone wafting through the house. It takes me back to lazy Sunday mornings, where the only thing on the agenda was enjoying a hearty meal with family. This breakfast calzone is not just a treat; it’s a quick solution for those busy weekdays when you need something delicious and filling. Packed with cheese, sausage, and spinach, it’s a dish that will impress your loved ones and keep you fueled for the day ahead. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Breakfast Calzone
This breakfast calzone is a game-changer for your morning routine. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just 45 minutes from start to finish. The taste? Absolutely mouthwatering! With a crispy exterior and a cheesy, savory filling, it’s a breakfast that feels indulgent without the fuss. Plus, you can customize it to suit your cravings, making it a versatile option for any day of the week. What’s not to love?
Ingredients for Breakfast Calzone
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious breakfast calzone. Here’s what you’ll need:
All-purpose flour: The foundation of your calzone dough, providing structure and chewiness.
Baking powder: This helps the dough rise, giving it that perfect fluffy texture.
Salt: A must for enhancing flavor; it brings all the ingredients together.
Garlic powder: Adds a subtle kick and depth to the dough.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses the calzone with classic Italian flavors.
Ricotta cheese: Creamy and rich, it adds moisture and a delightful creaminess to the filling.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, creating that gooey, cheesy goodness we all crave.
Cooked breakfast sausage (or bacon): Provides a savory, hearty element; feel free to swap it for your favorite protein.
Chopped spinach: A nutritious addition that balances the richness of the cheese and meat.
Large egg: Acts as a binder, helping to hold the filling together.
Olive oil: Adds flavor and helps achieve a golden-brown crust.
Grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this adds a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
Black pepper: A dash for a bit of heat and flavor enhancement.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little spice, this is a great addition!
For those looking to mix things up, consider substituting the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for a vegetarian option. You can also experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or feta for a unique twist. Exact measurements for these ingredients can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Breakfast Calzone
Creating a breakfast calzone is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, cheesy treat ready in no time!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your calzones bake evenly and come out perfectly golden. While the oven heats up, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed. This blend of dry ingredients is the backbone of your calzone dough, giving it flavor and structure.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, cooked sausage, chopped spinach, egg, olive oil, grated Parmesan, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir until well combined. This filling is where the magic happens, bringing together creamy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the cheese mixture. Stir until a dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, don’t hesitate to sprinkle in a little more flour. You want a dough that’s manageable but not overly dry.
Step 5: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead gently for about 1 minute until it’s smooth. This step helps develop the gluten, giving your calzones a nice chewy texture.
Step 6: Shape the Calzones
Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle about 6 inches in diameter. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect circles; a little rustic charm adds character!
Step 7: Fill the Calzones
Spoon a generous amount of the filling onto one half of each dough circle. Leave a small border around the edge to ensure a good seal. The filling should be heaped but not overflowing, or you’ll have a messy calzone!
Step 8: Seal the Calzones
Fold the other half of the dough over the filling. Press the edges together firmly to seal. For an extra secure seal, use a fork to crimp the edges. This not only keeps the filling inside but also adds a nice decorative touch.
Step 9: Bake
Place the calzones on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with a little olive oil for that golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re beautifully golden brown. The aroma will be irresistible!
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the calzones to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the filling set a bit, making them easier to eat. Enjoy your delicious breakfast calzone warm, and watch them disappear!
Tips for Success
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor; fresh spinach and quality cheese make a difference.
Don’t rush the kneading process; it helps develop the dough’s texture.
Experiment with fillings; try adding sun-dried tomatoes or different meats for variety.
Let the calzones cool slightly before cutting; this prevents the filling from spilling out.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; they reheat well!
Equipment Needed
Mixing bowls: A large bowl for mixing dough and a smaller one for the filling.
Rolling pin: If you don’t have one, a wine bottle works in a pinch!
Baking sheet: A sturdy sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Fork: For crimping the edges of the calzones; a simple tool with great results.
Variations
Vegetarian Delight: Swap the sausage for sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for a fresh, veggie-packed option.
Cheesy Spinach: Add more cheese like feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist that complements the spinach beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the filling for those who love a bit of heat.
Breakfast Burrito Style: Mix in scrambled eggs and diced tomatoes for a breakfast calzone that’s reminiscent of a burrito.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley in the filling for an aromatic boost.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your breakfast calzone with a side of fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast.
A simple green salad drizzled with vinaigrette complements the richness of the calzone.
Serve with a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing orange juice to kickstart your day.
For a fun presentation, slice the calzones in half and serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
FAQs about Breakfast Calzone
Can I make breakfast calzones ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the calzones and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven as directed.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
If ricotta isn’t your thing, you can substitute it with cottage cheese or cream cheese. Both will provide a creamy texture, but keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly.
Can I freeze breakfast calzones?
Yes! These calzones freeze beautifully. Just bake them, let them cool completely, and then wrap them tightly in foil or freezer bags. They can be stored for up to three months. Reheat in the oven for a crispy finish!
What are some good dipping sauces for breakfast calzones?
Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but you can also try ranch dressing, hot sauce, or even a spicy aioli for a fun twist. The options are endless!
How can I make my breakfast calzone healthier?
To lighten things up, use whole wheat flour for the dough and add more veggies to the filling. You can also opt for lean turkey sausage or skip the meat altogether for a vegetarian version.
Final Thoughts
Making a breakfast calzone is more than just cooking; it’s about creating a moment of joy to start your day. The aroma of freshly baked calzones fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Each bite is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying meal that fuels your morning. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with family, this recipe brings warmth and comfort to your breakfast routine. So roll up your sleeves, get creative with fillings, and savor the happiness that comes from a homemade breakfast calzone!
A delicious and hearty breakfast calzone filled with cheese, sausage, and spinach, perfect for a morning treat.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage (or bacon)
1/4 cup chopped spinach (fresh or frozen, thawed and drained)
1 large egg
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.
In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, cooked sausage, spinach, egg, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the cheese mixture, stirring until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently for about 1 minute until smooth.
Divide the dough into 4 equal portions and roll each portion into a circle about 6 inches in diameter.
Spoon a generous amount of the filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edge.
Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for an extra seal.
Place the calzones on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with a little olive oil.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, substitute the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or additional vegetables like bell peppers and onions.
Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar or feta for a unique flavor twist.
