Mini Calzones

Ingredients

• 1 (16 ounce) ball pizza dough, homemade or store bought
• 6 ounces (about 6 slices) provolone, cut into small squares
• 3 ounces salami, cut into small squares
• 2/3 cup ricotta cheese, preferably whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 large egg
• Marinara sauce, warmed, for serving

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 400°F.

2. 2

   --- For the dough: ---

3. 3

   Place the dough on a lightly floured work surface and cut into 8 equal pieces. Roll the pieces into balls and transfer to a parchment lined baking sheet. Cover and let stand while you make the filling.

4. 4

   --- For the filling: ---

5. 5

   In a medium bowl combine the provolone, salami, ricotta, Italian seasoning, pepper flakes, and black pepper to taste until combined.

6. 6

   --- To assemble: ---

7. 7

   In a small bowl beat the egg with 1 teaspoon water.

8. 8

   Working with 1 ball of dough at a time, press the ball into a flat disk then use a rolling pin to roll it into a 6-inch round with an 1/8-inch thickness. Spoon 1 heaping tablespoon of the cheese mixture on one half of the round then fold over to form a half moon shape, pressing the edge to seal. Crimp the edge with a fork and place back on the prepared baking sheet. Brush with the egg wash before repeating with the remaining dough.

9. 9

   Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve alongside warm marinara sauce for dipping.

10. 10

    --- To make ahead: ---

11. 11

    Allow the baked calzones to cool completely then tightly wrap each individually in plastic wrap. Transfer to a plastic bag and freeze for up to 2 months. To bake from frozen, place on a baking sheet in a 400°F for about 30 minutes, or until heated through.