Here’s a creative recipe for a Carnivore Calzone that’s entirely meat-based, making it perfect for those following a carnivore diet. This calzone uses ground meat as the “dough” and is stuffed with high-fat, delicious ingredients like cheese and bacon.
Ingredients:
For the “Crust”:
- 1 lb ground beef or pork (or a mix)
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp pork rinds (crushed, optional for added texture)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 4-5 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup cooked sausage or pepperoni slices (optional)
- 1/2 cup ricotta or cream cheese (optional for a creamier filling)
- Extra cheese or butter for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the “Crust”:
- In a bowl, mix together the ground meat, egg, and crushed pork rinds (if using). Season with salt and pepper. The egg helps bind the meat, and the pork rinds give the mixture a bit more texture, but they’re optional if you want to keep it strictly carnivore.
- Divide the meat mixture into two portions.
3. Shape the Calzone:
- Take one portion of the meat mixture and flatten it into a large oval on the prepared baking sheet. It should be about 1/4 inch thick.
- On one side of the oval, add your filling: start with a layer of shredded cheese, followed by the cooked bacon, sausage or pepperoni (if using), and ricotta or cream cheese.
4. Fold the “Crust”:
- Carefully fold the other half of the meat over the filling to form a calzone shape. Pinch the edges together to seal in the filling.
- Repeat this process with the second portion of the meat mixture to make a second calzone, or make one larger calzone if desired.
5. Bake:
- Bake the calzones in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.
6. Optional Topping:
- For extra flavor, top the calzones with more shredded cheese or brush them with melted butter about 5 minutes before they’re done baking, and let them crisp up.
7. Serve:
- Let the carnivore calzones rest for a few minutes before slicing them. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips:
- Extra Fillings: You can get creative with the fillings by adding other meats like ham or extra cheese for different flavors.
- Freezer-Friendly: These calzones freeze well. Prepare them ahead of time and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
This Carnivore Calzone is a delicious, meat-filled alternative to traditional calzones, keeping you on track with your carnivore diet while still enjoying something tasty and indulgent!