Calzones With Pasta Sauce
Calzones with savory cheese and pepperoni filling wrapped in pizza dough, baked until golden, perfect for a quick, cheesy meal served with warm pasta sauce.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir together cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, and garlic powder until blended.
- Mix in chopped pepperoni and Monterey Jack cheese slices.
- Divide each pizza crust into 2 portions.
- Roll each dough portion into a 7-inch circle.
- Spoon 1/2 cup of the cheese mixture into the center of each circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling, pressing the edges to seal.
- Place the calzones on a lightly greased, foil-lined baking sheet.
- Prick the dough several times with a fork.
- Bake at 375°F for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving with warm pasta sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting ricotta cheese for the cottage cheese for a creamier filling. You can also use other meats like cooked sausage or diced ham in place of pepperoni. Adding some chopped spinach or bell peppers can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Ensure your dough is rolled evenly to prevent uneven cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your calzones hot with a side of warm pasta sauce for dipping. They pair well with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a fun appetizer, consider cutting them into smaller pieces, similar to Pizza Bread Appetizers, and serving them at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover calzones can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. For a crispy crust, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Calzones With Pasta Sauce contains roughly 563 calories, with 39g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (166% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (117% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 787mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the calzones before baking?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked calzones. Assemble them, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 375°F for an additional 5-10 minutes, adjusting the time as needed.
What can I use instead of Monterey Jack cheese?
If you don't have Monterey Jack cheese, feel free to substitute with mozzarella or cheddar cheese. Each will bring a different flavor profile, but all will work well with the filling. Mixing in some provolone can also add a lovely depth to the taste.
How do I know when the calzones are done baking?
Calzones are ready when they are golden brown on top and firm to the touch. You can also check by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean without any raw dough. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).