Calzones South of the Border

Embrace the flavorful fusion of Tex-Mex cuisine with the traditional concept of calzones in this innovative recipe. Offering a tantalizing twist on the classic calzone, these savory delights are bursting with a Tex-Mex inspired filling. They pair harmoniously with sides like black beans and roasted corn, or for a lighter option, accompany them with slices of fresh tomato and avocado. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that marries Italian comfort with the bold and zesty flavors of the Southwest.

Yield: 8 calzones

Prep Time: 30 minutes 

Cooking Time: 7–8 minutes per batch

Total Time: 44–46 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

For the Filling:

• ¼ pound ground pork sausage
• ½ teaspoon chile powder
• ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
• ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
• ⅛ teaspoon onion powder
• ⅛ teaspoon oregano
• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• 1 ounce sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 ounces Pepper Jack cheese, shredded
• 1 4-ounce can chopped green chiles, drained
• Oil for misting or cooking spray
• Salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for serving

For the Crust:

• 2 cups white wheat flour, plus more for kneading and rolling
• 1 package (¼ ounce) RapidRise yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon chile powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 cup warm water (115°F to 125°F)
• 2 teaspoons olive oil

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Start by crumbing the sausage into the air fryer baking pan. Stir in the chile powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano. Cook at 390°F for 2 minutes. Stir and continue cooking for 3 to 4 minutes, until the sausage is well-done. Place the cooked sausage on paper towels to drain and set it aside.
2. To prepare the dough, combine the white wheat flour, RapidRise yeast, salt, chile powder, and ground cumin. Stir in the warm water and olive oil until a soft dough forms. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured board and knead it for 3 to 4 minutes. Allow the dough to rest for 10 minutes.
3. In a medium bowl, mix together the three cheeses, cooked sausage, and drained chopped green chiles to create the flavorful filling.
4. Divide the dough into 8 pieces.
5. Take 4 pieces of the dough and press each one into a circle about 5 inches in diameter. Place 2 heaping tablespoons of the filling onto each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal them firmly and prevent leakage. Spray both sides of the calzones with oil or cooking spray.
6. Place 4 calzones in the air fryer basket and cook at 360°F for 5 minutes. Mist with oil or spray and continue cooking for 2 to 3 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and cooked through.
7. While the first batch is cooking, roll out the remaining dough, add the filling, and shape them into calzones.
8. Spray the second batch with oil or cooking spray and cook for 5 minutes. If needed, mist with oil and continue cooking for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. This batch will cook faster due to the preheated air fryer.
9. Serve the Tex-Mex calzones on their own or accompanied by salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for an extra burst of flavor.

Experience the delightful fusion of Italian and Tex-Mex flavors in every bite of these Calzones South of the Border. The combination of the golden-brown, crispy crust and the zesty and savory filling creates a harmonious explosion of taste and texture. Whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main course, these calzones are sure to become a flavorful favorite for your family and guests alike.