Pepperoni Calzones
Cheesy pepperoni calzones with savory tomato sauce, mushrooms, herbs, and crisp crust, perfect for a satisfying snack or meal for pizza lovers of all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Punch down the pizza dough and divide it into 6 equal parts.
- Roll each part into a 7-inch circle on a lightly floured surface.
- Mix tomato sauce, drained mushrooms, basil, oregano, and crushed garlic.
- Spread the sauce mixture over half of each dough circle, leaving a 1-inch border.
- Top the sauce with pepperoni slices, green bell pepper, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and pinch the edges to seal securely.
- Place the calzones on a greased cookie sheet and let them rest for 15 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush the calzones with beaten egg.
- Bake for about 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier crust, let the calzones rest longer before baking, and use a pizza stone if available. You can substitute turkey pepperoni for a leaner option or add vegetables like spinach or olives for extra flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, try adding crushed red pepper flakes to the filling. These calzones can also be customized with your favorite ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your pepperoni calzones with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping. A fresh garden salad pairs beautifully, or consider a hearty Italian soup for a complete meal. For a fun twist, you could also serve them alongside a dish like Pizza Spaghetti Casserole to create a pizza-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This helps maintain their crispiness, unlike microwaving, which can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pepperoni Calzones contains roughly 146 calories, with 6g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (49% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 the calzones before baking. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This is a great way to prepare meals ahead of time.
What other fillings can I use in calzones?
You can get creative with calzone fillings! Consider using cooked sausage, ricotta cheese, or a mix of roasted vegetables. For a different flavor profile, try incorporating ingredients like pesto or sun-dried tomatoes. The options are endless, so feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients.
How do I know when the calzones are done baking?
The calzones are done when they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) for food safety. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
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).