Meat Calzone
A hearty and flavorful meat calzone filled with ham, pepperoni, cheese, and savory sauce, perfect for satisfying pizza cravings with a crispy baked crust.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Roll the thawed bread dough into a large rectangle.
- Mix the sliced ham, sliced pepperoni, shredded mozzarella, and pizza sauce together.
- Pour the meat and cheese mixture onto the dough, keeping it away from the edges.
- Fold the dough over the filling to form a calzone and moisten the edges to seal.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you don't have pepperoni, any other type of deli meat works well. To save time, you can use store-bought pizza dough instead of frozen bread dough. Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or cheddar for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm calzones with a side of marinara or pizza sauce for dipping. Pair them with a fresh salad or Italian beans for a complete meal. These calzones also make for great party food, so consider serving them alongside best ever old-fashioned spaghetti for a delightful Italian feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, ensuring the crust stays crispy. You can also microwave them, but be aware that the crust may become soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Calzone contains roughly 607 calories, with 32g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (63% of the Daily Value), calcium (57% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1323mg per serving (58% 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 calzones for later?
Yes, you can freeze calzones before or after baking. If freezing before, assemble them, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and store in a freezer-safe bag. To bake from frozen, increase the baking time by about 10 minutes.
What can I add to the filling?
You can customize the filling by adding ingredients like mushrooms, spinach, or olives. For a spicier kick, try incorporating jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. The combination of flavors is versatile, allowing you to make variations that suit your taste.
How do I know when the calzone is done baking?
The calzone is done when the crust is golden brown and crispy. You can also check the internal temperature, which should reach about 165°F. If you're unsure, a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
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).