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!