Name: Easy Homemade Calzone Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 pound pizza dough; ½ cup pizza sauce; ½ cup diced onion; ½ cup diced green bell pepper; ½ cup sliced pepperoni; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cook time of just 35 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights.
Customizable Fillings: Adapt the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, making mealtime enjoyable for everyone.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and reheat for a quick meal option.
Perfect for Leftovers: Great for utilizing leftover meats and vegetables.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound pizza dough
½ cup pizza sauce
½ cup diced onion
½ cup diced green bell pepper
½ cup sliced pepperoni
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Divide the pizza dough into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ¼-inch thick circle.
On one half of each dough circle, spread a layer of pizza sauce, then top with diced onion, green bell pepper, sliced pepperoni, and shredded mozzarella cheese, leaving a border around the edges.
Fold the dough over the fillings to create a half-moon shape. Crimp the edges to seal.
Cut 2-3 small slits on the top of each calzone to allow steam to escape.
Place the calzones on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with olive oil.
Bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the calzones are golden brown and the dough is cooked through.
Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve warm with additional pizza sauce for dipping.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 calzones
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Cheese Lovers: Add ricotta or parmesan cheese for extra richness.
Vegetarian: Omit the pepperoni and include mushrooms, spinach, or olives.
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the filling.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh basil or oregano for enhanced flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Place cooled calzones in a zippered freezer bag labeled with the date. They can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave on high for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

What is the difference between a calzone and a stromboli?

A calzone is a folded pizza dough pocket sealed along the edges, typically filled with cheese, meats, and vegetables. A stromboli is rolled and sliced after baking, often containing similar fillings.

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, store-bought pizza dough works well for this recipe. Ensure it’s thawed and at room temperature before using.

Can I make calzones ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the calzones and refrigerate them before baking. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.

How do I prevent the calzones from becoming soggy?

Ensure that any vegetables used are well-drained and meats are cooked to reduce moisture content. Avoid overfilling and make sure to cut slits on top to allow steam to escape.

Can I freeze unbaked calzones?

Yes, assemble the calzones and freeze them unbaked. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

What dipping sauces pair well with calzones?

Marinara sauce is a classic choice. Other options include garlic butter, ranch dressing, or spicy tomato sauce.

Can I use whole wheat dough?

Yes, whole wheat pizza dough can be used for a healthier alternative. Keep in mind it may yield a denser texture.

How do I know when the calzones are fully cooked?

The calzones should be golden brown on the outside, and the dough should be firm. If unsure, insert a thermometer; the internal temperature should be at least 165°F (74°C).

Can I make mini calzones?

Certainly. Divide the dough into smaller portions and adjust the filling accordingly. Reduce the baking time to 10-12 minutes, keeping an eye to prevent overbrowning.

What are some creative filling ideas?

Try combinations like BBQ chicken with red onions, spinach with feta cheese, or mushrooms with roasted garlic for a gourmet twist.

Conclusion

This Easy Homemade Calzone recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional pizza, providing a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s easy to customize and perfect for any occasion. Whether served fresh from the oven or reheated for a quick bite, these calzones are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.