Spinach Ricotta Calzones Recipe
If you’re craving a comforting yet elegant snack, these Spinach Ricotta Calzones will light up your kitchen with their golden, flaky crust and a luscious filling of creamy ricotta and tender spinach. This recipe brings together simple ingredients in a way that creates something truly special — warm, cheesy pockets that are perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a cozy treat for yourself. Each bite offers a delightful contrast between the lightly crisp dough and the rich, flavorful filling that will make Spinach Ricotta Calzones an instant favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here plays a key role in building the vibrant taste and inviting texture of your Spinach Ricotta Calzones. The dough provides that perfect flaky base, while the cheeses and spinach bring creaminess, freshness, and a pop of green color that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
- 2 cups Pizza dough: The foundation of your calzones, use fresh or store-bought dough for a crispy, golden crust.
- 1 cup Ricotta cheese: Adds creamy richness and balances the spinach’s earthiness beautifully.
- 1 cup Cooked spinach: Drained well to avoid soggy pockets, it brings vibrant color and a mild, fresh flavor.
- 1/2 cup Mozzarella: Melts perfectly to add gooey, cheesy goodness inside each calzone.
- 1 Egg (for egg wash): Brushed on top to achieve that irresistible shiny, golden finish during baking.
How to Make Spinach Ricotta Calzones
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 190°C (375°F). This ensures it’s fully hot and ready to bake your calzones to golden perfection as soon as they’re assembled.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
Combine the ricotta, cooked spinach, and mozzarella in a bowl. Be sure to mix gently to evenly distribute the flavors without turning it into a mushy mess. This filling is the heart of your Spinach Ricotta Calzones, creamy and full of savory goodness.
Step 3: Roll and Fill the Dough
Roll out your pizza dough into circles about 6 inches in diameter — perfect for bite-sized calzones or small to medium-sized treats. Spoon the filling onto one half of each circle, leaving some space at the edge for sealing.
Step 4: Fold and Seal
Carefully fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press and pinch the edges firmly to seal, trapping all that delicious filling inside so it won’t leak out during baking.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake
Brush each calzone with a beaten egg. This step is the secret to that beautiful golden crust on your Spinach Ricotta Calzones. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes, or until perfectly puffed and golden brown.
How to Serve Spinach Ricotta Calzones
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a few torn basil leaves draped over your warm calzones adds a fragrant touch and elevates that delicious presentation. Drizzling a little olive oil infused with garlic on top right after baking is another lovely way to boost flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair your calzones with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness or a simple tomato dipping sauce that complements the cheese and spinach filling beautifully. A bowl of roasted vegetables or a light soup also makes for a satisfying and balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, place your Spinach Ricotta Calzones on a wooden board arranged with a variety of dips like marinara, pesto, or a creamy garlic sauce. You can also serve mini versions as appetizers or slice a larger calzone to share family-style for a fun and rustic meal experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep the crust from becoming soggy. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days in the refrigerator, making a quick and easy snack or lunch option.
Freezing
Spinach Ricotta Calzones freeze wonderfully! Place unbaked calzones on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. You can bake them straight from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to your baking time.
Reheating
To warm up your calzones, use an oven or toaster oven at 175°C (350°F) to maintain that crisp crust, reheating for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that appealing crunch and gooey filling texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of cooked spinach?
It’s best to use cooked and well-drained spinach for the filling to prevent soggy calzones. Fresh spinach can be wilted quickly in a pan or steamed before mixing with the cheeses.
Is it possible to make these calzones vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute ricotta and mozzarella with plant-based cheese alternatives, and use a flax egg or plant-based milk for the egg wash to achieve a similar golden finish.
Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
Definitely! Mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or caramelized onions are all fantastic additions that pair wonderfully with the spinach and ricotta mixture.
What type of dough works best for Spinach Ricotta Calzones?
Pizza dough with a good balance of elasticity and crispiness works best. You can use homemade or high-quality store-bought dough for ease and great results.
How can I tell when my calzones are done baking?
Look for a golden brown crust that’s puffed up nicely and avoid any doughy or pale spots. The egg wash helps you judge doneness by the beautiful shiny, golden color it creates.
Final Thoughts
Once you try making Spinach Ricotta Calzones, this simple yet sensational dish will surely become a staple in your home kitchen. They carry that perfect mix of comfort food and elegance, and the best part is how easily the ingredients come together to create something so delicious. Whether for a quick snack, lunch, or entertaining guests, these calzones bring joy and warmth to the table every time. Give them a whirl — your taste buds will thank you!
