Cheesy Spinach and Sausage Calzone

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 cup warm water (110°F-115°F)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Filling: 

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 10 oz fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

1. Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. Stir in the flour, salt, and olive oil until a shaggy dough forms. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.

2. Prepare the filling: In a skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spatula until browned. Add the onion and garlic, and cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. In a bowl, mix the cooled sausage mixture with the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses.

4. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

5. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a 10-inch circle on a lightly floured surface.

6. Spoon the filling onto one half of each circle, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.

7. Brush the top of each calzone with the beaten egg.

8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the calzones are golden brown.

9. Let cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy these cheesy and flavorful spinach and sausage calzones for a delicious and comforting lunch or dinner!