Irresistible Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones Recipe

There’s something undeniably magical about sinking your teeth into a perfectly baked Pepperoni and Cheese Calzone. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses with promises of melty cheese and savory pepperoni wrapped in golden, crispy dough. crispy roasted potatoes You can almost hear the angels sing as you break apart the calzone, revealing a gooey center that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.

I remember the first time I made these delightful pockets of joy. It was a Friday night, and I had just finished binge-watching my favorite cooking show while devouring an embarrassing amount of popcorn. Inspired by my newfound culinary prowess, I decided to whip up some calzones. Spoiler alert: My kitchen looked like a tornado had hit it, but the end result was worth every flour-covered minute. Whether it’s game night or a cozy dinner at home, these calzones are sure to elevate any occasion.

Ingredients for Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pizza Dough: You can buy pre-made dough or make your own; either way, it’s the foundation of your calzone.

• Pepperoni Slices: Opt for high-quality pepperoni for the best flavor; they’ll be the star of this show.

• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Choose whole milk mozzarella for extra creaminess that melts beautifully.

• Ricotta Cheese: This adds a creamy texture and richness to balance out the flavors perfectly.

• Italian Seasoning: A sprinkle will elevate your filling with aromatic herbs like oregano and basil.

• Olive Oil: A light brushing on top before baking gives that golden color and crispiness we all crave.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it so those calzones don’t stick like bad habits.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface until it’s about ¼ inch thick. Feel free to channel your inner Italian chef as you stretch it—just don’t let it turn into a pizza frisbee.

Step 3: Fill ‘Em Up

Place slices of pepperoni onto half of each rolled-out dough circle. Add dollops of ricotta followed by a generous handful of shredded mozzarella and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.

Step 4: Seal It Up

Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a pocket. Press down on the edges with your fingers or use a fork for that signature crimped look—bonus points if you make it look fancy!

Step 5: Brush & Bake

Brush each calzone with olive oil for extra crispiness. Place them on your prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re golden brown and puffy like little clouds.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for a couple of minutes (if you can wait!). Serve hot with marinara sauce on the side for dipping—a match made in heaven.

Now that you’ve mastered making Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones, you’re ready to impress family and friends at your next gathering or simply indulge yourself on any evening that calls for comfort food! For more inspiration, check out this Classic Patty Melt Recipe recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to get it nice and hot. Roll out your dough while allowing the filling to blend together. Assemble your calzones, then bake until golden brown for that perfect crunch while the cheese melts inside.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out pepperoni for sausage or veggies for a healthier twist. Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or provolone for a unique flavor profile. Adding herbs like oregano or basil can elevate the taste even higher.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed throughout, ensuring that crust remains crispy and delicious.

There was one time I made these Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones for my friends’ game night, and they disappeared faster than I could say “extra cheese.” The smiles on their faces were priceless—definitely a win in my book!

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones?

To make delicious Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones, you will need pizza dough, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices, olive oil, and marinara sauce for dipping. You can customize your calzones by adding veggies or different cheeses. delicious grilled chicken sandwich The key to a perfect calzone is to use quality ingredients for the best flavor. You can find pre-made pizza dough at most grocery stores or make your own from scratch if you prefer.

How do I bake Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones?

Baking Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones is quite simple. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the pizza dough into circles, fill them with pepperoni and cheese, fold, and seal the edges. Brush the tops with olive oil for a golden finish. Bake on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them toward the end to ensure they don’t overcook.

Can I freeze Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones?

Yes! Freezing Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones is a great way to enjoy them later. After baking, let the calzones cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven until warm.

What can I serve with Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones?

Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones pair well with various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Consider serving them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, a fresh garden salad, or some garlic breadsticks. spice up your meal You can also add a variety of dipping sauces like ranch or pesto for extra flavor. These accompaniments make your meal more enjoyable and satisfying.

Conclusion for Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones :

In summary, making Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones is straightforward and offers endless customization options. With just a few ingredients like pizza dough, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni, you create a delicious meal that satisfies cravings. Baking them until golden brown provides a delightful crunch while maintaining cheesy goodness inside. Whether enjoyed fresh or frozen for later use, these calzones are sure to be a hit at any gathering or family dinner! For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta recipe.

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Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones

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• Author: Amanda
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Savor the delightful taste of Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones, where crispy, golden dough encases a gooey blend of mozzarella, ricotta, and flavorful pepperoni. Perfect for game nights or cozy dinners, these calzones are easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite fillings. Enjoy them hot with marinara sauce for dipping, making every bite an irresistible treat.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb pizza dough
• 4 oz pepperoni slices
• 1 cup shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick.
3. On one half of each dough circle, layer pepperoni, dollops of ricotta, mozzarella cheese, and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
4. Fold the other half over the filling and seal the edges by pressing down or crimping with a fork.
5. Brush each calzone with olive oil and place them on the baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
6. Let cool slightly before serving with marinara sauce for dipping.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 40mg