Why You’ll Love these Phyllo Dough Calzones
If you’re looking for a game-changing twist on traditional Italian comfort food, these phyllo dough calzones will make you wonder why you ever settled for regular pizza dough.
The crispy, flaky layers of phyllo create a texture that’s impossibly light yet satisfying.
I love how these calzones balance hearty fillings with delicate pastry. The spicy chicken sausage, Canadian bacon, and melty mozzarella make each bite incredibly flavorful, while the homemade tomato sauce adds brightness.
Can you imagine the satisfying crunch when you take that first bite? Pure bliss.
Bonus points: they’re lighter than traditional calzones. Perfect for impressing dinner guests, trust me.
What Ingredients are in Phyllo Dough Calzones?
These phyllo dough calzones might look fancy, but the ingredient list is actually quite approachable. The combination creates a perfect balance between the crispy, flaky exterior and the savory, cheese-filled interior. I’m particularly fond of how the spicy chicken sausage plays against the sweetness of the fresh basil in the sauce.
Ready to shop for this delicious twist on a classic Italian favorite?
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 (14 ounce) cans plum tomatoes
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 lb spicy chicken sausage
- 1/2 cup Canadian bacon, diced
- 3/4 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 (8 ounce) box phyllo dough (18 sheets)
- 1 (16 ounce) can olive oil flavored cooking spray
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 3 tablespoons dried Italian seasoning
When shopping for these ingredients, quality matters, especially for the phyllo dough. Look for it in the freezer section and make sure to thaw it properly before using.
The part-skim mozzarella gives you that perfect melt without excess grease, while the combination of fresh basil in the sauce and dried Italian seasoning on the phyllo creates layers of herb flavor.
Can’t find spicy chicken sausage? Regular Italian sausage works wonderfully too, just adjust the red pepper flakes to your heat preference.
How to Make these Phyllo Dough Calzones
Making these gorgeous, flaky calzones starts with preparing a quick homemade tomato sauce. In a 10-inch nonstick saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat, then add 4 crushed garlic cloves and sauté until just softened—about a minute. Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of crushed red pepper flakes and cook for another minute before adding 2 cans (14 ounces each) of plum tomatoes.
Let this simmer until thick, then remove from heat and stir in ½ cup of fresh basil leaves. That off-heat basil addition? It’s the secret to keeping that bright, herbaceous flavor intact.
While your sauce cools, turn your attention to the filling. Remove the casings from ½ pound of spicy chicken sausage and cook it in a nonstick pan over medium-high heat, breaking it into small pieces as it browns. Once fully cooked (about 1½ minutes), drain away any grease.
In a medium bowl, combine the cooked sausage with ½ cup of diced Canadian bacon and ¾ cup of shredded part-skim mozzarella. Add ¼ cup of your freshly made tomato sauce to the mixture and stir it all together. Now comes the fun part—working with the phyllo!
Preheat your oven to 350°F and lay out a sheet of phyllo dough (from an 8-ounce box) on a clean surface. Spray it lightly with olive oil cooking spray, sprinkle with a bit of kosher salt and Italian seasoning, then repeat the process with two more sheets. This layering technique creates that incredible flaky texture that makes these calzones so special.
For even cooking and perfect browning, consider preparing your filling on a premium electric griddle which offers consistent temperature control throughout the cooking process.
For assembly, place one portion of filling in the lower left corner of your phyllo stack, then fold it into a triangle—think of how you’d fold a flag. Make a small ½-inch slit in the top of each packet (this lets steam escape during baking), arrange them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, and give them one final light spray of oil.
For the best results when making these calzones, a high-quality stand mixer can help you efficiently prepare the dough components.
Bake for 35 minutes until they’re beautifully golden brown. The contrast between the crispy, paper-thin phyllo layers and the gooey, savory filling inside is absolutely worth the effort. Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving with the remaining warm tomato sauce for dipping. The slight cooling period allows the cheesy filling to set just enough so it doesn’t completely escape when you take that first incredible bite.
Phyllo Dough Calzones Substitutions and Variations
While mastering our classic phyllo calzone recipe is rewarding, the real joy comes from making it your own through creative substitutions and variations.
Don’t have spicy chicken sausage? Try Italian sausage, ground turkey, or even a meat-free crumble for vegetarians. The cheese options are endless—ricotta adds creaminess, while provolone brings sharpness.
I’m always amazed how swapping Canadian bacon for prosciutto or pancetta completely transforms the flavor profile.
For adventurous cooks, consider Mediterranean fillings with feta, spinach and olives. Or go sweet with mascarpone, berries and chocolate.
The phyllo’s delicate crispness works with practically anything, trust me.
What to Serve with Phyllo Dough Calzones
When you’ve spent the time creating these crisp, flaky phyllo calzones, you’ll want side dishes that complement—not compete with—their delicate texture and rich flavors.
I recommend a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A light Mediterranean cucumber salad works beautifully too.
Since the calzones already have that wonderful tomato sauce, why not serve extra on the side for dipping?
For something more substantial, roasted vegetables like zucchini or eggplant make perfect partners.
And don’t forget a glass of medium-bodied red wine to bring everything together, if that’s your thing.
Final Thoughts
These delightful phyllo dough calzones have quickly become one of my favorite recipes to share with friends and family.
There’s something magical about the crispy, paper-thin layers giving way to that savory filling of sausage, Canadian bacon, and melty mozzarella.
What makes this recipe truly special is the versatility.
Don’t have chicken sausage? Swap in Italian.
Vegetarian guests coming over? Load it with roasted veggies instead.
If you’re looking for another easy Italian-inspired option, try making chicken parmesan using pre-made coating mix for a quick weeknight dinner.
The key is handling that delicate phyllo with confidence.
Yes, it might tear occasionally, but who cares?
Once baked, those imperfections become part of its rustic charm.
For busy weeknights when you’re craving comfort food but short on time, try making a hearty goulash with pasta and ground beef instead.
