Cheesy Pepperoni Calzone Recipe

Looking for a comforting meal that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further than this Pepperoni Calzone Cheesy Goodness recipe! These golden-brown pockets of joy are filled with a rich blend of mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheeses, all perfectly complemented by zesty pepperoni and seasoned pizza sauce. A sprinkle of garlic powder and Italian seasoning elevates the taste to a whole new level. These calzones are not just a treat for your taste buds but also a perfect handheld delight for any occasion.

The Pepperoni Calzone Cheesy Goodness recipe is a game-changer when it comes to satisfying your cravings for Italian goodness without the hassle of a traditional pizza. Whether it’s a busy weeknight, a casual gathering, or a game day feast, these calzones are sure to steal the show. Quick to prepare and customizable with your favorite toppings, they offer a deliciously convenient way to enjoy a homemade meal. So, roll up your sleeves, get your ingredients ready, and indulge in the cheesy goodness of these irresistible calzones!

Quick Benefits

• Ready in under 30 minutes once the dough is prepared
• Customizable with your favorite pizza toppings
• Provides about 3 servings of protein per calzone, making them surprisingly filling
• Freezes beautifully for quick future meals

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Pepperoni Calzone Recipe Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes once the dough is prepared, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and common refrigerator items, making it convenient to whip up.
• Customizable: Add your favorite pizza toppings to make it your own.
• Freezer-Friendly: Freeze for future meals for a quick and satisfying option.
• Perfect Handheld Meal: Ideal for on-the-go or feeding a crowd without the mess of traditional pizza slices.
• Satisfying and Filling: Each calzone provides about 3 servings of protein, making it surprisingly filling.
• Flavorful Three-Cheese Blend: Mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheeses create a rich and creamy filling.
• Classic Pepperoni: The star ingredient that adds a spicy, savory kick to every bite.
• Bakery-Quality Appearance: Egg wash creates a beautiful golden shine on the crust for a professional finish.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare in advance and refrigerate or freeze for quick and delicious meals.
• Versatile Recipe: Easily customizable with vegetarian or lower-fat options to suit dietary preferences.
• Complementary Side Dishes: Pair with salad, marinara sauce, or soup for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
• Family Favorite: A beloved recipe that is a hit with both kids and adults.
• Valuable Cooking Tips: Helpful tips for handling dough, preventing overbaking, and storing leftovers.
• Crowd-Pleasing: A versatile dish that can be enjoyed warm or cold, always a hit at gatherings.

Ingredients for Cheesy Pepperoni Calzone Recipe

• All-purpose flour, for dusting
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 20-25 slices pepperoni
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 pound pizza dough, homemade or store-bought
• 1 large egg, beaten, for egg wash

Pro Tips for Cheesy Pepperoni Calzone Recipe

Pro Tip 1: For the best cheese pull, use freshly shredded mozzarella and whole milk ricotta. The quality of the cheese significantly impacts the final texture and taste of your calzone.

Pro Tip 2: To prevent the filling from oozing out, make sure to firmly press and crimp the edges of the calzone. A clean and dry border ensures a tight seal before baking.

Pro Tip 3: Customize your calzones with favorite toppings like sautéed vegetables or alternative cheeses. Experiment with different variations to create a unique flavor profile that suits your preferences.

How to Make Cheesy Pepperoni Calzone Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

Let the pizza dough sit at room temperature for approximately 20 minutes to make it easier to stretch.

Step 2: Step 02

Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C) with a baking sheet inside.

Step 3: Step 03

Divide the dough into two equal portions on a lightly floured surface. Roll each portion into an 8-inch diameter circle.

Step 4: Step 04

Mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Spread pizza sauce on half of each dough circle, leaving a 1-inch border. Add cheese mixture and top with pepperoni slices.

Step 5: Step 05

Fold dough over filling to form a half-moon shape. Press edges together firmly to seal, then crimp with a fork for closure.

Step 6: Step 06

Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg and make two small slits on each calzone for steam to escape.

Step 7: Step 07

Bake the calzones in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and the crust is cooked through.

Step 8: Step 08

Take out of the oven and allow the calzones to cool briefly before serving. Serve with extra pizza sauce for dipping, if preferred.

Storage Tips

Once you have baked the pepperoni calzones to golden perfection, it’s essential to store any leftovers properly to maintain their taste and texture. If you have uneaten calzones, let them cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Store the calzones in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes for a crispy result.

For longer-term storage, you can freeze the assembled calzones before baking. Place them on a baking sheet until solid, then wrap each calzone individually in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Frozen calzones can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, bake the calzones directly from frozen, adding about 7-10 minutes to the baking time. This way, you can have a delicious homemade meal ready in no time whenever you’re in the mood for a tasty calzone.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have ricotta cheese on hand, you can substitute it with cottage cheese blended until smooth. This will provide a similar creaminess to the filling. Additionally, if you prefer a lower-fat option, using part-skim mozzarella and ricotta cheese can be a suitable choice without compromising on flavor.

For a vegetarian twist, consider replacing the pepperoni with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions. Be sure to drain the vegetables well to prevent excess moisture in the calzone. This substitution offers a flavorful and savory option for those looking to omit meat. You can also explore using goat cheese instead of ricotta for a tangy alternative if you are avoiding cow’s milk products. Additionally, gluten-free pizza dough is a great alternative for those with dietary restrictions, although handle it gently when rolling and folding to maintain its structure.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delicious pepperoni calzones with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping, creating a perfect combination of flavors. For a complete meal, pair them with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette or a cup of hearty minestrone soup to enhance the Italian-inspired experience. To elevate your presentation, sprinkle some fresh basil or oregano on top of the calzones just before serving for a pop of color and added freshness.

For a fun twist, try making mini calzones by using smaller portions of dough and filling for a delightful appetizer or party snack. These bite-sized treats are sure to be a hit at any gathering, and you can offer a variety of fillings to cater to different tastes. Additionally, consider creating a calzone bar where guests can customize their own calzones with an array of toppings like sautéed vegetables, different cheeses, and assorted meats for a fun and interactive dining experience.

FAQs for Cheesy Pepperoni Calzone Recipe

Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this calzone recipe?

Yes, both homemade and store-bought pizza dough work great for calzones. Allow the dough to come to room temperature for easier handling.

What should I serve with these pepperoni calzones?

Serve calzones with marinara or pizza sauce for dipping. A side salad or roasted vegetables also pairs well.

Can I customize this calzone recipe with different ingredients?

Absolutely! Add ingredients like mushrooms, cooked sausage, spinach, or different cheeses to suit your taste.

Why is the egg wash necessary for this calzone recipe?

The egg wash adds a shiny, golden color to the crust and helps seal the edges of the calzones.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Pepperoni Calzone Cheesy Goodness pockets are a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game night, need a quick dinner solution, or simply want to indulge in some Italian comfort food, these calzones have got you covered. The combination of gooey cheeses, savory pepperoni, and aromatic seasonings all wrapped in a golden-brown crust is a winning formula that never fails to impress.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different toppings, cheeses, or even dough variations to make these calzones your own. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and adaptability to suit your preferences. So, roll up your sleeves, get creative in the kitchen, and treat yourself to a taste of Pepperoni Calzone Cheesy Goodness that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy baking!