Italian Beef Calzone

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough
   Allow pizza dough to come to room temperature for at least 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cook the beef filling
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Cook until beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Prepare the cheese mixture
   In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, and the Parmesan cheese. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
4. Assemble the calzones
   Divide the pizza dough into 4 equal portions. On a floured surface, roll each portion into an 8-inch circle. On one half of each circle, spread 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce, leaving a 1-inch border. Top with a quarter of the beef mixture and a quarter of the cheese mixture. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella.
5. Fold and seal
   Fold the empty half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly, then fold and crimp to seal completely. Transfer calzones to the prepared baking sheet. Cut a small slit in the top of each calzone to allow steam to escape.
6. Brush and bake
   Brush the tops of the calzones with beaten egg wash for a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
7. Serve
   Allow calzones to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with additional warmed marinara sauce on the side for dipping.