Vegan Calzone Recipe: Easy, Delicious, and Homemade

If you’re craving a warm, comforting Italian treat that’s entirely plant-based, this vegan calzone recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Calzones are essentially folded pizzas packed with delicious fillings, and when made vegan, they’re just as satisfying and flavorful without any animal products.

Imagine biting into a golden, crispy crust bursting with savory vegetables, rich tomato sauce, and melty vegan cheese—all made from wholesome ingredients.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking for a tasty meatless meal, this recipe will guide you through every step, from making the dough to preparing the perfect filling. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies and herbs.

Perfect for cozy dinners or impressing friends at your next gathering, this vegan calzone combines simplicity with gourmet flair.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan calzone recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it uses simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create a delightful texture and taste.

The crust is soft yet crispy, made with easy-to-find pantry staples, and the filling is vibrant with seasonal vegetables and flavorful herbs.

Additionally, making calzones at home means you control what goes inside—no hidden dairy or preservatives like in some store-bought versions. They’re also freezer-friendly, so you can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them whenever hunger strikes.

Whether you want a quick lunch, a hearty dinner, or a shareable snack, these calzones deliver satisfaction in every bite.

Ingredients

• For the Dough:
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• For the Filling:
• 1 cup vegan mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• ½ cup bell peppers, diced (red or yellow for sweetness)
• ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup vegan ricotta or tofu ricotta (optional for creaminess)
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing and brushing

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet or pizza stone
• Parchment paper
• Skillet or frying pan
• Pastry brush
• Knife and cutting board

Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates the yeast is active.
2. Make the dough: Add the flour, olive oil, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix using a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms. Transfer it to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
4. Prepare the filling: While the dough is rising, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Add the mushrooms, bell peppers, and red onion to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Stir in the spinach and cook for another 2 minutes until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
6. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 450°F (230°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven now to heat up.
7. Shape the dough: Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle about 8-9 inches in diameter on a lightly floured surface.
8. Fill the calzones: Spread about ¼ cup of marinara sauce on one half of each dough circle, leaving a 1-inch border. Spoon the sautéed vegetable mixture over the sauce, then sprinkle with vegan mozzarella and dollops of vegan ricotta (if using).
9. Seal the calzones: Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal, then crimp with a fork for a decorative touch. Brush the top with olive oil for a golden finish.
10. Bake: Place the calzones on a parchment-lined baking sheet or preheated pizza stone. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
11. Serve: Let the calzones cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce for dipping.

Tips & Variations

Tip: To avoid soggy calzones, make sure your vegetable filling is not too wet. Sauté ingredients until most of the moisture evaporates and drain excess liquid if needed.

Variation: Experiment with different fillings like sautéed eggplant, artichoke hearts, or vegan sausage crumbles for variety. You can also add fresh herbs like basil or rosemary to elevate the flavor.

Pro Tip: For a crispier crust, brush the calzones with a mixture of olive oil and garlic powder before baking.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Vegan calzones make a hearty meal on their own, but pairing them with a fresh salad or soup can brighten the plate. Try a crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a bowl of Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating for a light and balanced meal.

For a fun appetizer or party snack, cut the calzones into small wedges and serve with an assortment of dips like marinara, vegan pesto, or even a creamy Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes.

These pairings will elevate your dining experience and impress guests.

Conclusion

Making your own vegan calzones at home is a rewarding and delicious way to enjoy Italian comfort food without any dairy or meat. The process is straightforward, and the result is a golden, crispy crust filled with savory, wholesome ingredients that everyone will love.

This recipe is perfect for customizing with your favorite veggies and vegan cheeses, providing endless opportunities to experiment.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these calzones offer a satisfying and nourishing meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. For more inspiration on plant-based cooking, check out our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves or try some Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals to keep your menu exciting and vibrant.

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