Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones

Oh boy, are you in for a treat today! If you’ve never made Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones, you’re in for a real game-changer. Picture this: warm, golden-brown pizza dough, stuffed with melty mozzarella, tangy marinara, and pepperoni that crisps up to perfection as it bakes. It’s the kind of comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Trust me, when you pull these out of the oven, the cheesy, pepperoni-filled goodness will have everyone flocking to the table!

The best part? These calzones are way easier to make than they look, so you can enjoy all the satisfaction of homemade pizza without the fuss. Whether you’re cooking for the family, having a friend over, or treating yourself (because why not?), these calzones will always be a hit. Trust me, you’re going to love this!

Why You’ll Love Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating a moment of joy in your kitchen. Here’s why this calzone recipe is a favorite:

• Versatile: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a weekend treat, or a fun dish to serve at a party, these calzones have got you covered. Imagine pulling them apart to reveal all that cheesy goodness inside—it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.
• Budget-Friendly: You don’t need to break the bank to make something delicious. The ingredients are simple, affordable, and easy to find, meaning you can make a satisfying meal without spending a lot.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few straightforward steps, even a kitchen newbie can make these calzones with confidence. It’s as easy as rolling, stuffing, and baking. Voila!
• Customizable: One of the best parts of this recipe is how adaptable it is. Not a fan of pepperoni? No problem—swap it out for sausage, veggies, or whatever your heart desires! You can even add a bit of garlic powder or chili flakes to spice it up.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re making them for kids or adults, these calzones hit the spot every time. They’re fun to eat and perfect for sharing. Plus, they’re incredibly filling, so no one will leave the table hungry.

Ingredients in Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones

Here’s the magic behind these delicious calzones—they’re made with simple ingredients, but the result is absolutely mouthwatering. Let’s break it down:

• Pizza Dough: The base for our calzones. It’s soft and chewy on the inside, with a nice, golden crust on the outside. You can use store-bought dough to save time, or if you’re feeling ambitious, make your own!
• Pepperoni: The star of the show! Pepperoni adds that perfect spicy, savory punch that makes these calzones so irresistible.
• Mozzarella Cheese: The gooey, melty cheese that holds everything together. When it’s baked, it becomes stretchy and delicious. You can use shredded or fresh mozzarella—either way, it’s going to be good.
• Marinara Sauce: You can’t have a calzone without a bit of marinara for dipping. It’s tangy, rich, and the perfect contrast to the cheesy filling.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of oregano, basil, and other herbs gives these calzones that classic Italian flavor.
• Olive Oil: A little drizzle of olive oil on top before baking gives the calzones a gorgeous golden finish and extra flavor.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to make some of the best calzones you’ve ever had? Let’s dive in!

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to a nice, hot temperature. This ensures that your calzones will bake to perfection—crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Preheating is a key step, so don’t skip it!

Prepare the Pizza Dough

Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface. You want to make it into a nice, round shape, about 8 inches in diameter. Think of it like a pizza, but the goal is to fold it in half and stuff it with all the good stuff.

Add the Fillings

On one half of your dough, layer a generous amount of mozzarella cheese and a few slices of pepperoni. If you’re feeling extra cheesy, go ahead and add a little more cheese. Sprinkle some Italian seasoning over the filling for that authentic Italian flavor.

Fold and Seal

Now comes the fun part—folding your calzone! Fold the dough over the fillings to form a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges together tightly to seal it all in. You don’t want any of that cheesy goodness escaping, so make sure the seams are sealed well.

Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the tops with a little olive oil. This will give them that golden, crispy crust. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 15–20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and bubbly. The cheese inside should be all melty, and the crust should be perfectly crispy.

Serve and Enjoy

Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for a minute or two before slicing. Serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, and you’ve got yourself a meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

How to Serve Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones

These calzones are hearty enough to be a meal on their own, but if you’re looking to round out the dinner, here are a few side ideas:

• Fresh Salad: A crisp, green salad with a simple vinaigrette is a great contrast to the richness of the calzone. Try adding some cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion for extra flavor.
• Garlic Bread: Because, let’s be real, garlic bread is always a good idea. It’s the perfect accompaniment to soak up any extra marinara sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers add a pop of color and are a healthy side that balances the richness of the calzone.
• Extra Marinara Sauce: If you’ve got any leftover marinara, serve it on the side for dipping. It adds an extra layer of flavor that’s totally irresistible.

Additional Tips

Here are a few extra tips to make your calzone experience even better:

• Prep Ahead: If you’re short on time, you can prep the dough and fillings ahead of time. Keep everything in the fridge, and then assemble and bake when you’re ready to eat.
• Spice It Up: Want a little extra heat? Add some red pepper flakes to the filling or drizzle some hot sauce over the calzones before baking.
• Customizable Fillings: Feel free to get creative with the fillings! Add some sautéed onions, mushrooms, or olives for a little extra flavor. You could even make a vegetarian version with spinach, ricotta, and tomatoes.
• Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the crust crispy, or microwave if you’re in a hurry (though the crust might not be as crispy).
• Freezer-Friendly: You can freeze unbaked calzones! Assemble them, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, just bake from frozen—no need to thaw!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A1: Absolutely! If you don’t have mozzarella, you can use provolone, cheddar, or even a blend of Italian cheeses. The melty, gooey texture is key, so any good melting cheese will work.

Q2: Can I make these ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can prepare the calzones in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just pop them in the oven and bake as directed.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake them at 350°F for 10 minutes to get the crust crispy again.

Q4: Can I freeze these calzones?
A4: Yep! Freeze them unbaked, and when you’re ready to eat, bake them directly from frozen. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Q5: Can I double the recipe?
A5: Of course! If you’re feeding a crowd or want leftovers, just double the ingredients. Be sure to give yourself extra space on the baking sheet, and check for doneness.

Conclusion

And there you have it—Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones that are crispy, cheesy, and downright delicious. This is the kind of meal that’s bound to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a fun family dinner, these calzones will never disappoint. So go ahead, grab those ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the most delicious homemade calzones you’ve ever tasted!

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