How to Create Cheesy Spinach and Mushroom Calzones: A Simple, Tasty Recipe
If you love pizza or savory pies, you’re going to adore cheesy spinach and mushroom calzones! These easy-to-make folded pockets of deliciousness are stuffed with ooey-gooey cheese, flavorful mushrooms, and spinach—a combination that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for your family, friends, or just yourself, calzones make for a perfect lunch, dinner, or even a party appetizer. Don’t worry if you’ve never made calzones before—this step-by-step guide is designed just for you.
Let’s get started!
What You’ll Need
Before diving into the recipe, gather these ingredients to make cheesy spinach and mushroom calzones:
For the Dough:
- Pre-made pizza dough (store-bought or homemade, about 1 pound)
- Flour (for dusting)
For the Filling:
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (white button or cremini work great)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: A sprinkle of garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or grated Parmesan for added flavor.
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
If you’re using pre-made pizza dough, make sure it’s thawed and at room temperature. This makes it easier to stretch and shape. Dust your countertop or cutting board with a bit of flour to prevent sticking, then roll out the dough into a large circle or rectangle. Aim for about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut the dough into smaller portions—each calzone will need one piece of dough about 6-8 inches in diameter.
Step 2: Make the Filling
Let’s prepare the heart of our calzones: the cheesy spinach and mushroom mixture.
-
Cook the Vegetables:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the mushrooms and spinach, and stir occasionally for about 3-5 minutes, or until the spinach wilts and the mushrooms are soft. Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if you’re using it. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. -
Mix the Cheeses:
In a bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheeses are evenly blended. -
Combine the Filling:
Once the vegetables cool, mix them into the cheese blend. Congratulations, you now have your delicious filling ready to go!
Step 3: Assemble the Calzones
Now comes the fun part—putting everything together.
-
Add the Filling:
Take one dough piece and spoon a generous portion of the filling onto one half of it. Be sure to leave about an inch of space along the edges so you can seal the calzone later. -
Fold and Seal:
Fold the empty half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Use your fingers or a fork to press the edges together tightly—this keeps the delicious filling from spilling out while baking. -
Brush with Egg Wash:
Lightly brush the top of each calzone with beaten egg. This helps give them a beautiful golden-brown color when they bake.
Step 4: Bake the Calzones
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep the calzones from sticking.
- Place the calzones onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
- Optional: Sprinkle the tops with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or extra Parmesan cheese for enhanced flavor.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the calzones are golden brown and the dough feels firm to the touch.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the calzones are done baking, allow them to cool for a few minutes. They’re best enjoyed warm! Serve with marinara sauce, ranch, or even a simple olive oil and balsamic vinegar dip. Pair these calzones with a fresh side salad, or enjoy them as a stand-alone meal.
Tips and Variations
- Add Protein: If you’d like to add some extra protein, try cooked chicken, sausage, or crumbled bacon in the filling.
- Make It Vegan: Use vegan cheese and skip the egg wash to make these calzones plant-based.
- Store Leftovers: Keep leftover calzones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or toaster for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy spinach and mushroom calzones are easy to make and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe is bound to become one of your go-to comfort foods. It’s versatile, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with loved ones—or keeping all to yourself. So roll up your sleeves, grab your favorite ingredients, and start making these tasty treats today!
Happy cooking! 😊
