Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones Recipe

If you have a craving for something warm, cheesy, and irresistibly savory, then this Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine biting into a golden, crispy pocket filled with melty mozzarella, zesty pizza sauce, and slices of spicy pepperoni all wrapped up in soft, fluffy pizza dough. It’s like enjoying your favorite pizza in a handy, handheld form that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or anytime you want to feel a bit cozy and indulgent. This Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines simple ingredients into a delicious, hearty meal everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones Recipe uses straightforward, classic ingredients that work together to create the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Each one plays a crucial role in making these calzones both satisfying and deliciously homemade.

• 500g pizza dough: The base of your calzones, providing a soft yet slightly crispy crust when baked.
• 100g pepperoni: Adds spicy, savory notes that complement the creamy cheese beautifully.
• 160g mozzarella: Melty and stringy, mozzarella gives that irresistible cheesy pull inside each calzone.
• 4 Tbsp pizza sauce: A rich, tangy layer that infuses the filling with classic Italian flavor.
• 1 tsp olive oil: Brushed on top for a golden crust and a subtle fruity aroma when baked.

How to Make Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dough

Start by preheating your oven to 210°C using the fan bake setting to ensure even cooking and a perfectly crisp crust. While the oven warms up, divide your pizza dough into four equal balls so it’s easy to roll out into uniform calzones.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, gently roll one dough ball into a circle about 20 cm in diameter. This is the perfect size for folding over and creating that signature pocket while keeping the filling just right.

Step 3: Add the Sauce

Spread 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce on half of the dough circle, leaving about a 2 cm border around the edge. This border is key to sealing the calzone and preventing the sauce from leaking out while baking.

Step 4: Layer Pepperoni and Cheese

Place four pieces of pepperoni evenly over the sauce, then sprinkle around 40 grams of grated mozzarella on top. This combination ensures every bite is bursting with flavor and that comforting cheesy stretch.

Step 5: Fold and Seal

Carefully fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press down around the edges to seal the filling inside, then fold and twist the edges to lock everything in place so none of that tasty filling escapes while baking.

Step 6: Repeat for Remaining Calzones

Create the remaining three calzones by repeating the rolling, saucing, filling, and sealing steps. This keeps everything consistent and guarantees delicious results across all four servings.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Place each calzone on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Don’t forget to cut two small vents on the top of each calzone to let steam escape during baking — this helps keep the crust crispy and prevents sogginess.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden and Delicious

Brush each calzone lightly with olive oil to enhance browning and add a subtle aroma. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the crust turns a gorgeous golden brown color. Remove and let cool slightly before enjoying your creation.

How to Serve Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones Recipe

Garnishes

While these calzones are wonderful on their own, adding fresh garnishes like a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil, a dash of grated Parmesan, or a pinch of crushed red pepper can elevate them even more. These little touches add brightness and extra layers of flavor that make every bite exciting.

Side Dishes

Pair your Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones Recipe with a fresh side salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance all that cheesy goodness. Roasted vegetables, a bowl of tangy marinara sauce for dipping, or even some garlicky steamed green beans make wonderful companions to this hearty dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice your calzones into smaller pieces and serve as finger foods for a party or game day snack. You can also offer a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, spicy arrabbiata, or even a creamy garlic dip to keep things interesting and interactive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftover calzones, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or snacks later in the week.

Freezing

You can freeze assembled but unbaked calzones by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freezing until firm. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When ready, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To keep your calzones crispy when reheating, warm them in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving unless you’re in a pinch, as it can make the crust soggy instead of deliciously crunchy.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in this Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones Recipe?

Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic for its meltiness and mild flavor, you can mix in provolone, cheddar, or even a bit of Parmesan for extra richness and complexity.

Is it necessary to make vents on the calzones before baking?

Yes, cutting small vents allows steam to escape, which prevents the calzones from bursting or becoming soggy inside. It helps achieve that perfect golden crust with a fluffy interior.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Definitely! Throw in some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to add extra nutrition and texture—just be sure to cook any raw veggies beforehand so they don’t release too much moisture while baking.

How do I know when the calzones are fully cooked?

Look for a golden brown crust all over and a fragrant aroma. Also, the dough should be firm to the touch and not doughy inside. The baking time of 20 to 25 minutes usually does the trick perfectly.

Can this Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones Recipe be made vegan?

You can make a vegan version by using plant-based cheese and vegan pepperoni alternatives, along with a dairy-free pizza dough. The method stays the same for assembling and baking.

Final Thoughts

This Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy all the flavors of classic pizza packed into a warm, handheld treat. It’s simple to make, fun to share, and endlessly comforting. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try — I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to meals for any occasion!

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