Easy Keto Calzone (Low Carb) Recipe

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a warm, cheesy calzone that feels indulgent yet fits perfectly within your low-carb lifestyle. This Easy Keto Calzone (Low Carb) Recipe is exactly that kind of dish — a delightful blend of gooey mozzarella, savory sausage or turkey pepperoni, and a golden, almond flour-based crust that holds all that goodness together. It’s a recipe that brings all the charm of classic Italian flavors without the carb overload, making it a total winner whether for a quick dinner, weekend treat, or even meal prep. Trust me, once you make this, it will become one of your go-to favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with this Easy Keto Calzone (Low Carb) Recipe is a breeze thanks to a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a valuable role—from creating the perfect texture for the crust to adding flavor and richness inside.

  • Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 1/2 cups + 1 cup): This cheese melts beautifully and forms the base and filling for the calzone’s signature gooey texture.
  • Cream cheese (2 tbsp): Adds smoothness to the dough and helps bind the almond flour for that pliable crust.
  • Large egg (1): Acts as a natural binder, keeping the dough together without making it tough.
  • Almond flour (3/4 cup): The star low-carb substitute to traditional flour, providing a nutty flavor and hearty foundation for the crust.
  • Baking powder (1/2 tsp): Ensures the crust has a light, fluffy lift rather than being dense.
  • Sugar-free marinara sauce (1/2 cup): Brings that classic tomato-savory zing without any added sugars or carbs.
  • Cooked beef sausage or turkey pepperoni (1/2 cup): Offers rich, meaty flavor that complements the cheese and tomato beautifully.
  • Garlic powder (1/4 tsp): Adds a subtle punch of garlicky goodness to enhance the filling.
  • Italian seasoning (1/4 tsp): A fragrant blend of herbs that ties all the flavors together.
  • Olive oil (for brushing): Helps the crust turn beautifully golden and crisp as it bakes.
  • Grated Parmesan (for sprinkling): Adds a salty, nutty layer of flavor on top.
  • Fresh basil (for garnish): A fresh, aromatic touch that brightens the whole dish.

How to Make Easy Keto Calzone (Low Carb) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat is perfect for quickly baking the calzones so they become golden and crispy on the outside while keeping the inside meltingly tender. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Melt the Cheese for the Dough

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese with the cream cheese. Microwave for 45 seconds, then stir well to help the cheeses start to blend together. Microwave again for another 30 seconds or until the mixture is fully melted and smooth. This warm, gooey cheese is what makes the dough so wonderfully pliable and delicious.

Step 3: Form the Dough

To the melted cheese mixture, add the almond flour, baking powder, and the large egg. Mix everything until a dough forms. It might feel a little sticky at first, which is normal! If that happens, simply knead the dough gently with damp hands or chill it in the fridge for a short time to make it easier to work with.

Step 4: Shape the Calzones

Divide the dough into 4 equal portions for four individual calzones. Roll each portion out into a circle about 5 inches in diameter. These individual sizes are just perfect for personal servings packed with flavor.

Step 5: Fill and Season the Calzones

On one half of each dough circle, spoon about a tablespoon of sugar-free marinara sauce. Add your choice of cooked beef sausage or turkey pepperoni and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese. Don’t forget to dust the filling lightly with garlic powder and Italian seasoning for that extra burst of flavor that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy!

Step 6: Seal and Prepare for Baking

Fold the dough over from the other side to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly, pinching or crimping to seal the calzone tightly so none of the cheesy filling escapes while baking. Place each sealed calzone onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 7: Add the Final Touches and Bake

Brush the tops of the calzones lightly with olive oil to encourage a golden, crispy crust. Sprinkle grated Parmesan over each one for a lovely salty, nutty finish. Bake in your preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, until the calzones are beautifully golden brown. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid molten cheese burns!

How to Serve Easy Keto Calzone (Low Carb) Recipe

Easy Keto Calzone (Low Carb) Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like basil are a simple yet elegant garnish that adds a pop of color and brightness to your calzones. A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan or a few red pepper flakes can also elevate the presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

Keep it low carb and fresh with a vibrant side salad packed with leafy greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with olive oil and vinegar. Alternatively, roasted or steamed non-starchy vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or broccoli pair beautifully alongside these calzones.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these calzones on rustic wooden boards with small bowls of extra marinara sauce for dipping — it’s fun and inviting! You can also cut them into smaller wedges to transform this dish into shareable finger food, perfect for casual get-togethers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The calzones might lose a bit of their crispness but will still taste amazing reheated.

Freezing

These calzones freeze beautifully. After baking and cooling completely, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months, making this recipe perfect for meal prep with no stress.

Reheating

To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the calzones on a baking sheet, and warm them for about 10-12 minutes or until heated through. This method helps maintain crispness better than a microwave and prevents sogginess.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat in this Easy Keto Calzone (Low Carb) Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap the beef sausage or turkey pepperoni for cooked chicken, bacon, or even crumbled Italian sausage. The recipe is very flexible, so tailor it to your favorite low-carb meats.

Is almond flour the only flour alternative that works for this dough?

Almond flour works best due to its texture and flavor, but you can try other nut flours like hazelnut or pecan flour if you prefer. Just keep in mind that different flours may affect the dough’s consistency and taste slightly.

Can I prepare these calzones ahead of time and bake later?

Yes! You can assemble the calzones, place them on the baking sheet, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding an extra minute or two if they’re chilled.

What if I don’t have a microwave to melt the cheese for the dough?

No worries! You can gently melt the cheeses in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth. Just be careful to avoid overheating or burning the cheese.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply omit the meat and add your favorite low-carb vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers as the filling. This variation is just as delicious and keeps everything keto-friendly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy treat that won’t derail your low-carb goals, this Easy Keto Calzone (Low Carb) Recipe is your answer. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfectly portable for any meal occasion. Don’t hesitate to try it out—you’ll soon see why it’s a beloved recipe that keeps keto eating exciting, delicious, and satisfying every single time.

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Easy Keto Calzone (Low Carb) Recipe

Easy Keto Calzone (Low Carb) Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 47 reviews
  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Low Carb

Description

This Easy Keto Calzone recipe offers a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional calzones, featuring a cheesy almond flour crust filled with savory sausage or turkey pepperoni and gooey mozzarella. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal that fits perfectly into a ketogenic lifestyle.


Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tbsp cream cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 3/4 cup almond flour
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder

Filling

  • 1/2 cup sugar-free marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup cooked beef sausage or turkey pepperoni
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp Italian seasoning

Finishing

  • Olive oil for brushing
  • Grated Parmesan for sprinkling
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and prepare for baking.
  2. Melt Cheeses: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine shredded mozzarella and cream cheese. Microwave for 45 seconds, then stir. Microwave for another 30 seconds until cheeses are fully melted and can be mixed to form a dough base.
  3. Form Dough: Add almond flour, baking powder, and egg to the melted cheese mixture. Mix thoroughly until a dough forms. If the dough is sticky, knead it with damp hands or chill for a short while to make it easier to handle.
  4. Shape Dough: Divide the dough evenly into 4 portions. Roll each portion into a circle about 5 inches in diameter, preparing the base for the calzones.
  5. Add Filling: Spoon about a tablespoon of sugar-free marinara sauce onto one half of each dough circle. Add cooked beef sausage or turkey pepperoni and a generous amount of shredded mozzarella on top. Sprinkle with garlic powder and Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
  6. Seal Calzones: Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Pinch or crimp the edges firmly to seal the calzones, ensuring filling doesn’t leak during baking.
  7. Prepare for Baking: Place the calzones on the lined baking sheet. Brush each calzone top with olive oil to enhance browning and texture. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for added taste and crispiness.
  8. Bake: Bake the calzones in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until they become golden brown and crispy on the outside.
  9. Cool and Serve: Let the calzones cool slightly on a wire rack. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving to add a burst of color and fresh aroma.

Notes

  • For easier handling, chill the dough briefly if it becomes too sticky.
  • You can substitute the sausage or turkey pepperoni with any keto-friendly meat of your choice.
  • To keep it low carb, make sure to use sugar-free marinara sauce.
  • Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven for best crispness.
  • Fresh basil is optional, but adds a great fresh flavor and visual appeal.

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