There is something incredibly comforting about a perfectly baked calzone — all that melty cheese, savory pepperoni, and flavorful marinara tucked inside a warm, golden crust. This Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones Recipe captures that delicious magic every time, combining simple ingredients in a way that feels both satisfying and special. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe promises a tasty, crowd-pleasing meal that’s just bursting with cheesy, pepperoni goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones Recipe lies in its straightforward, quality ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in building the perfect balance of taste, texture, and vibrant color that makes the final dish so crave-worthy.
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade): The sturdy yet tender base that holds everything together.
- 1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for dipping): Adds a rich, tangy tomato flavor that complements the cheese and pepperoni perfectly.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, creating that iconic gooey, stretchy calzone interior.
- 1 cup pepperoni slices: Provides a spicy, savory punch and lovely red flecks throughout.
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional): Introduces a creamy softness that balances the zing of pepperoni.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb mix that lifts the whole flavor profile.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Adds depth and subtle warmth without overpowering.
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing): Ensures a crispy, golden crust when baked.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): A nutty topping that finishes off the calzones with an extra flavor kick.
How to Make Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones Recipe
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Preparing a baking sheet with parchment paper or a light grease coating is key to preventing sticking while giving your calzones a nice bottom crust. This simple initial step sets the stage for a perfect bake.
Step 2: Divide the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, divide the pizza dough into four equal parts to make individual calzones. Rolling each portion into a 6 to 8 inch circle might take a little patience, but it’s fun and gives you plenty of room for filling without making the calzones too thick.
Step 3: Fill the Calzones
Spread 2 to 3 tablespoons of marinara sauce on half of each dough circle, making sure to leave about a 1-inch border around the edge. Then layer in your shredded mozzarella, pepperoni slices, and if you’re feeling indulgent, a dollop of creamy ricotta. Sprinkle Italian seasoning and garlic powder over the cheese and pepperoni to elevate every bite with aromatic flavors.
Step 4: Fold & Seal
Fold the dough over the filling, transforming the circle into a classic half-moon shape. Pressing the edges with a fork seals everything inside perfectly, preventing any cheese or sauce from escaping during baking while giving the calzones a pretty crimped edge.
Step 5: Brush & Top
Place the calzones on your prepared baking sheet. Brushing the tops with olive oil helps develop that irresistible golden, crispy crust. If you like, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a deliciously nutty finish and beautiful browning.
Step 6: Bake
Bake your calzones for 15 to 20 minutes until they turn golden brown and crisp. The wait can feel long but seeing and smelling that perfect crust will make it worth it. Once out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes — the filling will be piping hot!
How to Serve Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of fresh basil or chopped parsley add a bright, fresh note that cuts through the richness of the calzones. A drizzle of extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping also makes a lovely, classic touch that everyone will appreciate.
Side Dishes
Pairing your Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones Recipe with a crisp green salad is a fantastic idea. The freshness balances out the hearty calzone and brings a light crunch to each meal. Roasted vegetables or a bowl of soup also work beautifully alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving these calzones sliced in half so the melty, colorful filling is on full display. You can also offer an array of dips like garlic butter, pesto, or spicy marinara to let guests customize each bite. Wrapping them up in parchment paper or serving in baskets lined with checked cloth instantly creates that cozy, pizzeria vibe at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover calzones store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes for an effortless lunch or dinner the next day, still tasting quite fresh and delicious.
Freezing
If you want to prep in advance, these calzones freeze well. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to two months without losing their flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, unwrap and place the calzone on a baking sheet in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 to 15 minutes. This revives the crust’s crispiness and warms the filling evenly — no soggy microwaved calzones here!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones Recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic for meltiness, feel free to mix in provolone, cheddar, or fontina for different flavor dimensions. Just make sure whichever cheese you choose melts well to keep that desired gooey texture inside.
Is it possible to make these calzones gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free pizza dough available in many stores or make your own using gluten-free flour blends. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so the recipe adapts well for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I prepare the calzones ahead of time and bake later?
Definitely! Assemble the calzones and refrigerate them on the baking sheet, covered tightly for up to 24 hours. When ready, just bake as directed. This makes dinner prep super flexible and fast.
What can I use instead of pepperoni for a different flavor?
If pepperoni isn’t your favorite, try Italian sausage, ham, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility — you can customize with your preferred fillings easily.
How do I prevent the calzone dough from getting soggy inside?
Leaving a 1-inch border around the marinara sauce prevents it from leaking and making the dough soggy. Also, using thicker sauces rather than watery ones helps keep the crust crispy and the filling intact.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that feels indulgent but is simple to whip up, this Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones Recipe is your new best friend. Each bite is a warm embrace of cheesy, savory satisfaction wrapped in golden crust. I promise once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again for every occasion!
Print
Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
These Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones are a delicious, easy-to-make Italian-inspired dish featuring a crispy golden crust filled with melted mozzarella, savory pepperoni, creamy ricotta, and seasoned marinara sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering, they bake quickly in the oven and come with extra marinara for dipping.
Ingredients
Calzone Dough
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Filling
- 1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for dipping)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup pepperoni slices
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Topping
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Divide the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, divide the pizza dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle about 6-8 inches in diameter.
- Fill the Calzones: Spread 2 to 3 tablespoons of marinara sauce on one half of each dough circle, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. Then layer half a cup of shredded mozzarella, a quarter cup of pepperoni slices, and a dollop of ricotta cheese if using. Sprinkle Italian seasoning and garlic powder evenly over the filling for enhanced flavor.
- Fold & Seal: Carefully fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Firmly press the edges together, then crimp with the tines of a fork to seal the calzones fully and prevent any filling from leaking out during baking.
- Brush & Top: Place the sealed calzones on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops generously with olive oil to promote golden browning. Optionally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the tops for an extra cheesy crust.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the calzones turn a beautiful golden brown and the crust is crispy to the touch. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving with extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Use store-bought pizza dough for a quick option or homemade dough for a fresher taste.
- Ricotta cheese is optional but adds a creamy texture that complements the mozzarella and pepperoni.
- You can customize fillings by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
- Make sure to seal the edges well to avoid leakage during baking.
- Serve calzones warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
