Authentic Italian Calzone

Ingredients

• Salt (1 teaspoon, or to taste)
• Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon, or to taste)
• Italian seasoning (1 tablespoon)
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced)
• Onions (1 cup, chopped)
• Bell peppers (1 cup, chopped)
• Pepperoni (1 cup, sliced)
• Mozzarella cheese (2 cups, shredded)
• Pizza sauce (1 cup)
• Pizza dough (1 pound)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large circle or rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
3. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over half of the dough, leaving about 1 inch border around the edges for sealing later.
4. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
5. Distribute your toppings - pepperoni, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms - evenly over the cheese layer.
6. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the toppings.
7. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape (for a circle) or a rectangle. Press the edges together to seal, and crimp with a fork for a better seal.
8. Brush the top of the calzone with olive oil, then sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
9. Carefully transfer the calzone to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the calzone is golden brown, and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.
11. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your bite of Italy!