A Keto Calzone with Spinach & Cheese is a delicious low-carb alternative to the classic Italian dish, perfect for those following a ketogenic diet. Instead of a traditional dough, we’ll use a keto-friendly dough made with almond flour, making this calzone both crispy and satisfying. The filling is made with creamy spinach and melted cheese for a tasty and indulgent meal.
Here’s how to make Keto Calzone with Spinach & Cheese:
Keto Calzone with Spinach & Cheese Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Spinach & Cheese Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup ricotta cheese (or cream cheese for a richer filling)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing spinach)
For the Calzone Assembly:
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce (optional, for dipping)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Keto Dough:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine shredded mozzarella cheese and cream cheese. Microwave for about 30-40 seconds, or until the cheese is melted.
- Stir in the egg, almond flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt to form a dough. Mix until smooth and fully combined. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more almond flour.
- Prepare the Spinach Filling:
- In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes until wilted. If using frozen spinach, make sure it’s well-drained and cooked.
- Remove from heat and mix the spinach with mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
- Assemble the Calzone:
- Roll the dough out between two sheets of parchment paper into a circular shape about 8-9 inches in diameter.
- Spoon the spinach and cheese filling into the center of the dough, leaving a border around the edges.
- Carefully fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, sealing the edges by pinching them together.
- Brush the top of the calzone with 1 tablespoon of olive oil for a golden, crispy finish.
- Bake the Calzone:
- Place the calzone on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve:
- Let the calzone cool for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve with marinara sauce on the side for dipping (optional).
Tips:
- Dough consistency: If the dough is too sticky to work with, lightly dust your hands or parchment paper with almond flour. You can also chill the dough for 15-20 minutes to make it easier to handle.
- Flavor variations: You can add other low-carb vegetables like mushrooms, peppers, or olives to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
- Make it extra cheesy: If you love cheese, you can add more shredded mozzarella or even sprinkle Parmesan on top before baking.
- Freezing: You can freeze unbaked calzones. Just assemble them, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to a month. To bake, place the frozen calzone on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.
This Keto Calzone with Spinach & Cheese is a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of a traditional calzone while keeping it low-carb and keto-friendly. Enjoy this delicious, cheesy meal without the guilt!
