Welcome to my Harvest Veggie Calzone recipe, a comforting way to enjoy the bounty of the season. It's packed with hearty veggies and gooey cheese, all wrapped up in a crisp, golden pizza crust. Perfect for a cozy meal at home.
Olive oil is the base for sautéing, adding richness and depth to the veggies. Butternut squash brings a sweet, nutty flavor, while red bell pepper adds a touch of sweetness and color. Onion and garlic provide a savory backbone. Salt and black pepper season the mix, and oregano infuses a hint of Mediterranean aroma. The cheese trio — ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan — creates a creamy, melty filling. Pizza dough forms the crispy, golden envelope, and a beaten egg gives it that beautiful shine.
Pair this calzone with a fresh green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness. A side of marinara sauce for dipping can add a nice zesty touch. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a bowl of your favorite soup.
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures it's nice and hot by the time your calzone goes in. Meanwhile, grab a large skillet and heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the butternut squash, red bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and oregano. Sauté until the veggies are tender, which usually takes about 10 minutes. Once done, set them aside to cool a bit.
As the veggies cool, mix together the ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses in a bowl. This combo will give you that dreamy cheese pull when you slice into the calzone.
On a floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a large circle. Try to get it even, but don't stress too much. Spread the cooled veggie mixture over one half of the dough, leaving a good inch around the border. Then, spoon the cheese mixture over the veggies.
Fold the dough over the filling, pressing the edges to seal. You can crimp them with a fork for a nice finish. Brush the top with the beaten egg for that golden crust. Place your calzone on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the calzone is a beautiful golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!