Description
These Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones are a handheld Italian delight packed with gooey mozzarella, zesty pepperoni, and a rich marinara dipping sauce. Perfect for a quick dinner or game-day snack!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for dipping)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup pepperoni slices
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Divide the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, divide the pizza dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a 6-8 inch circle.
- Fill the Calzones: Spread 2-3 tbsp of marinara sauce on half of each dough circle, leaving a 1-inch border. Layer 1/2 cup mozzarella, 1/4 cup pepperoni, and a dollop of ricotta (if using) over the sauce. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and garlic powder.
- Fold & Seal: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges with a fork to seal tightly.
- Brush & Top: Place calzones on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Notes
- Customize with your favorite fillings like mushrooms, bell peppers, or sausage.
- For a crispier crust, sprinkle cornmeal on the baking sheet before placing the calzones.
- Make ahead and freeze unbaked calzones; bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 calzone
- Calories: 650 kcal (estimated based on ingredients)
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 1400mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg