Jun 13 2009
Easy Calzone
This easy to make version of a calzone is a huge favorite in my house. It’s my quick version for those who don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. (I don’t usually measure anything so I made this for my family last night -see picture above- and carefully measured all the ingredients.)
Makes 8 servings. Adjust as needed to make less or more. (1 rolled pie crust makes 2 servings)
Ingredients:
2 boxes Pillsbury Rolled Pie Crusts
8 oz. shredded mozzarella
8 oz. shredded cheddar
1 tub of ricotta (15 oz.)
1 1/2 – 2 lb. ground chuck
8 oz. pkg pepperoni
8 – 9 oz pkg. deli ham
1 tsp. garlic salt
1 tsp. and one pinch Italian seasoning
1 jar Ragu (Robusto) Sauteed Onion & Garlic pasta sauce*
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Cooking directions:
Preheat oven to 450F.
In large frying pan, add ground chuck, garlic salt and Italian seasoning. Cook until nearly done. Chop ham into bit size pieces and add to meat. Separate pepperoni and add to meat and ham mixture. Continue cooking until meat is thoroughly done and oil has separated from pepperoni. Drain.
Once meat mixture is drained of all oils, transfer to large mixing bowl and add ricotta cheese. Stir until cheese is well blended, then add pasta sauce. Stir until mixture is well blended.
Unroll pie crust, one at a time, on a flat non-stick surface. One at a time: place several large spoonfuls (five or six heaping tablespoons) of meat mixture in center of dough, allowing about 2 inches from each end. Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar on top. Fold ends over meat/cheese; then fold sides over, sealing them together. Transfer to large non-stick oven proof dish and repeat with remaining three crusts. Lightly brush olive oil over tops of crust and then sprinkle with a pinch of Italian seasoning. Place in oven and bake until crusts are light golden brown.
Remove from oven and sprinkle remaining mozzarella and cheddar across the tops. Place back in oven until cheese is melted. Remove and let cool for 5 minutes. Once cooled, cut across the middle of all four (creating 8 equal servings). Serve with a nice green salad.
*Or your favorite pasta sauce
Variations- can substitute meats with vegetables; or vary with meats and vegetables. Any type of meat can be used. Use your favorite cheese to make this your own.
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I tried this dish last night and the family loved it! It lived up to its name and was delish! Thanks for sharing – can’t wait to try more recipes!