Keto Calzones

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Pizza Cravings, Guilt-Free: These keto calzones offer all the indulgence of traditional calzones—gooey cheese, savory sausage, and flavorful herbs—without the carbs.
2. Quick and Easy: You’ll have these ready in just over half an hour, making them perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous cravings.
3. Customizable and Delicious: The filling possibilities are endless—swap out the sausage for pepperoni, add veggies, or go full cheese!
4. Perfect for Meal Prep: They store and reheat well, making them an ideal low-carb option for meal planning.

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A Bite of Italy, Keto Style!

Calzones are like little pizza pockets—warm, cheesy, and filled with your favorite Italian ingredients. The problem? Traditional calzones are typically loaded with carbs, thanks to their thick, doughy crust. But what if I told you that you could enjoy all that savory goodness without the carb overload?

Enter the Keto Calzone—a cheesy, hearty, low-carb dream come true. These calzones have a golden, crisp crust made with a combination of mozzarella, almond flour, and cream cheese, creating a delightful dough that rivals the traditional version. Inside, you’ll find a rich, cheesy filling loaded with Italian sausage and creamy ricotta.

Picture this: You take a bite, and your teeth sink into the crisp, golden crust. The filling is melty, cheesy, and packed with that unmistakable Italian flavor. One bite, and you’ll be transported to a rustic Italian bistro—minus the carbs!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• 🧀 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella (170g)
• 🧀 2 ounces cream cheese (56g)
• 🥚 1 egg
• 🌰 3/4 cup almond flour (75g)
• 🧂 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 🧀 1/2 cup ricotta (120g)
• 🧀 1 cup shredded mozzarella (113g)
• 🍖 1 cup Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled (150g)
• 🥚 1 egg (for topping)
• 🌿 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 🧂 1 teaspoon coarse salt

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Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Make the Dough

• In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella and 2 ounces cream cheese.
• Microwave for 90 seconds, stopping halfway to stir.
• The cheese should be melted and slightly stretchy.

Step 3: Form the Dough

• Quickly add 1 egg, 3/4 cup almond flour, and 1/2 teaspoon baking powder to the melted cheese.
• Mix well until a dough forms. You may need to knead it with your hands for a smooth, uniform texture.
• If the dough becomes too sticky, add a little more almond flour.
• Pro Tip: Wet your hands lightly to make the dough easier to handle.

Step 4: Shape the Calzones

• Divide the dough into 3 equal portions.
• Roll each portion into a circle about 8 inches in diameter.
• Use parchment paper on top and bottom of the dough to prevent sticking when rolling out.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

• In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup ricotta, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, and 1 cup cooked Italian sausage.
• Mix well to combine.
• Tip: Feel free to add some chopped spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor!

Step 6: Assemble the Calzones

• Spoon the filling onto half of each dough circle, leaving space around the edges.
• Fold the other half of the dough over the filling, forming a half-moon shape.
• Pinch the edges to seal, or use a fork to crimp them closed.

Step 7: Add Toppings

• Brush the top of each calzone with a beaten egg to give it a golden color.
• Sprinkle with dried oregano and coarse salt for added flavor.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

• Transfer the calzones to the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 20-26 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and crisp.
• Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
• Serving Tip: Slice in half and serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

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Presentation Ideas

• Italian Classic: Serve with a bowl of warm marinara sauce and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan.
• Cheesy Overload: Top each calzone with a thin layer of melted mozzarella and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
• Breakfast Version: Use scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheese as a filling for a hearty morning meal.
• Vegetarian Twist: Swap the sausage for sautéed spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms.

Serving Tips

• Serve hot, with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Great for on-the-go lunches—just wrap in foil and enjoy!

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How to Store and Reheat

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Individually wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating:
  • Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat for 1-2 minutes, but the crust may lose some crispness.
• Tip: For the best texture, reheat in the oven or an air fryer.

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FAQs

1. Can I use coconut flour instead of almond flour?
   Yes, but use less since coconut flour is more absorbent. Start with 1/4 cup and adjust as needed.
2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Absolutely! Keep it wrapped in plastic in the fridge for up to 2 days.
3. Can I make these dairy-free?
   Use dairy-free mozzarella and ricotta substitutes. The texture may vary slightly.
4. Can I substitute the sausage?
   Yes, ground beef, chicken, or even pepperoni work great.
5. How can I make it spicier?
   Add crushed red pepper flakes to the filling or use spicy Italian sausage.
6. Can I make mini calzones?
   Yes, divide the dough into smaller portions and reduce the baking time to 15 minutes.
7. Why is my dough sticky?
   Try chilling it for a few minutes before rolling, or add a bit more almond flour.
8. What dipping sauces go well?
   Marinara, garlic butter, or even a creamy ranch dip work perfectly.
9. Can I air fry these calzones?
   Yes! Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
10. Can I add veggies to the filling?
    Of course! Try bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.

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Final Thoughts

These Keto Calzones bring all the cheesy, hearty comfort of traditional Italian street food, but without the guilt. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend treat, or meal prepping for busy days. Whether you’re craving pizza or just looking for something deliciously low-carb, these calzones hit the spot every time.

Give them a try, and don’t forget to share the love with your fellow keto enthusiasts! 🍕