Sausage and Ricotta Calzone

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Pizza Dough

   • In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes until the mixture is foamy.
   • Add the all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp of olive oil, and 1 tsp of salt. Mix with a dough hook on low speed or by hand until a shaggy dough forms.
   • Knead on a lightly floured surface for 6-8 minutes (or with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes) until the dough is smooth and elastic.
   • Form the dough into a ball, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, and turn to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 60-90 minutes, or until doubled in size.
2. 2

   Cook the Sausage and Prepare the Filling

   • While the dough is rising, heat the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add the Italian sausage and cook for 8-10 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it's browned and fully cooked. Drain off any excess grease and set aside to cool completely.
   • In a separate large bowl, combine the ricotta, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, 0.75 tsp salt, and black pepper.
   • Once the sausage has cooled, add it to the cheese mixture. Crack one egg into the bowl and mix everything together until well combined. Set aside.