Ground Beef and Cheese Calzones
These Ground Beef and Cheese Calzones are the perfect mix of crispy, golden crust and a rich, cheesy filling that’s packed with flavor. Stuffed with seasoned ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and savory ingredients, these homemade calzones are baked to perfection for a delicious, comforting meal. This easy recipe is great for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a fun snack. Serve with marinara sauce, a fresh salad, or your favorite sides for a satisfying, family-friendly dish everyone will love.
Ingredients
- For the Dough (or use store-bought pizza dough):
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (110°F / 45°C)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ tsp salt (to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup ricotta or cream cheese (optional for creaminess)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- For Assembly:
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
Instructions
- Step 1: Make the Dough (if homemade): In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5 minutes until foamy. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 8 minutes until smooth. Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled. (Skip this step if using store-bought pizza dough.)
- Step 2: Prepare the Filling: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add onion and sauté until soft. Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Stir in ground beef, breaking it up, until browned. Season with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir in ½ cup marinara sauce. Simmer 5 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat.
- Step 3: Assemble the Calzones: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment. Divide dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each into a 7–8 inch circle. Spread 1–2 tbsp marinara on half of each circle, leaving edges clean. Add beef mixture, then mozzarella, ricotta (if using), and Parmesan. Fold dough over filling to form a half-moon. Press edges with a fork to seal. Brush tops with beaten egg and olive oil.
- Step 4: Bake the Calzones: Place calzones on prepared baking sheet. Bake 20–25 minutes until golden brown. Let cool 5 minutes before serving.