The moment you bite into a warm, cheesy pepperoni and cheese calzone, you’re transported to pizza paradise. The crispy crust gives way to a melty, gooey interior packed with savory pepperoni and rich cheese. Not only do these calzones satisfy your pizza cravings, but they also provide an irresistible aroma that wafts through the kitchen like a warm hug. For more inspiration, check out this garlic shrimp recipe recipe.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones
- How to Make Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs:
- What are Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones?
- How do I make Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones from scratch?
- Can I freeze Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones?
- What can I serve with Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones?
- Conclusion for Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones:
- 📖 Recipe Card
Picture this: It’s game night, the couch is strewn with snacks, and your friends are gathered around for some friendly competition. Suddenly, out of nowhere, the oven timer goes off, releasing the tantalizing scent of freshly baked calzones that gets everyone buzzing with excitement. That’s the magic of pepperoni and cheese calzones—a dish that brings people together and creates unforgettable moments.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These pepperoni and cheese calzones are incredibly easy to make and perfect for sharing.
- The flavor balance between crispy dough and melted cheese is simply divine.
- Visually appealing, they are golden brown and ready to impress at any gathering.
- Versatile enough to customize based on your favorite fillings or dietary needs.
Ingredients for Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pizza Dough: Store-bought or homemade, this will be the base of your calzone. Choose a dough that’s easy to work with.
- Pepperoni Slices: Opt for high-quality slices that crisp up nicely when baked, adding smokiness to every bite.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The star of the show! Go for whole milk mozzarella for a creamier texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds a touch of nuttiness that elevates the flavors.
- Olive Oil: Brush a bit on top before baking for a golden finish and added flavor.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs takes these calzones from ordinary to extraordinary; you can also use fresh herbs if you have them!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this chicken burrito bowls recipe recipe.
How to Make Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Dough
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) while you roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface. Aim for about half an inch in thickness—thicker than that could lead to doughy disasters!
Step 2: Fill ‘Em Up
Cut your rolled-out dough into circles or rectangles—whatever suits your fancy! On one half of each piece, layer pepperoni slices generously along with shredded mozzarella cheese. Feel free to add extra toppings like mushrooms or bell peppers if you’re feeling adventurous.
Step 3: Seal the Deal
Fold over the dough to create a pocket filled with deliciousness. Use your fingers or a fork to crimp the edges securely—this is crucial unless you want a cheesy explosion in your oven (and nobody wants that).
Step 4: Add Some Zest
Place your calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush them lightly with olive oil and sprinkle Italian seasoning on top for that aromatic finish.
Step 5: Bake ‘Em Right
Pop those beauties into the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re golden brown and fragrant. Pro tip: keep an eye on them because nobody likes burnt edges!
Step 6: Serve with Style
Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool slightly before serving. Pair them with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping—the perfect finishing touch.
Now you have an amazing dish that not only satisfies your cravings but also brings joy to any occasion! Enjoy your homemade pepperoni and cheese calzones while reminiscing about all those delightful moments shared around good food!
You Must Know
- These pepperoni and cheese calzones are not just a meal; they are an experience.
- Easy to customize, they bring the joy of pizzeria flavors to your kitchen.
- Perfect for parties or cozy nights in, these calzones are sure to impress everyone at the table.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the ultimate pepperoni and cheese calzones, start by preparing your dough first. While it’s rising, mix your filling ingredients. Once risen, roll out the dough, fill it up, and bake until golden brown for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out pepperoni for other meats like ham or even veggies if you want a healthier twist. You can also experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or provolone for added flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover calzones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until crispy again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.
- Avoid overfilling your calzones to prevent spills during baking.
- Let the dough rest after rolling for easier handling.
Cooking these calzones reminds me of that one evening when my friends gathered around our kitchen island, devouring them while sharing laughs and stories. Those moments make cooking so rewarding!
FAQs:
What are Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones?
Pepperoni and cheese calzones are delicious Italian pastries that consist of a folded pizza dough filled with pepperoni, mozzarella, and sometimes ricotta cheese. They are baked until golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining warm and gooey inside. Explore more delicious recipes These calzones are perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a snack, providing a satisfying meal option that is easy to transport and enjoy.
How do I make Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones from scratch?
To make pepperoni and cheese calzones from scratch, you need to prepare the dough using flour, yeast, water, salt, and olive oil. Allow the dough to rise before rolling it out into circles. Fill each circle with sliced pepperoni and shredded cheese, fold them over, and seal the edges. Learn to make pizza dough from scratch Bake in a preheated oven until golden brown. This homemade version is easily customizable with your favorite ingredients.
Can I freeze Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones?
Yes, you can freeze pepperoni and cheese calzones for later enjoyment. After baking them, allow the calzones to cool completely. Then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven until warmed through for a delicious meal anytime.
What can I serve with Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones?
Serve pepperoni and cheese calzones with marinara sauce for dipping or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. You might also consider pairing them with garlic bread or steamed vegetables for added variety. These accompaniments enhance the flavor of the calzones while providing a balanced dining experience.
Conclusion for Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones:
In summary, pepperoni and cheese calzones offer a delightful fusion of flavors wrapped in crispy dough that can be enjoyed at any mealtime. Making these calzones from scratch allows you to customize your fillings while ensuring freshness. Check out a vegetarian calzone option Whether you choose to bake them or freeze them for later use, they remain a convenient option for busy days. Enjoy these tasty treats as part of your regular meal rotation!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 4 servings (4 calzones) 1x
Description
Pepperoni and cheese calzones are a delectable twist on classic pizza, featuring a crispy, golden crust filled with melty mozzarella and savory pepperoni. Perfect for game nights or casual gatherings, these calzones are not only easy to make but also fully customizable to suit your taste. Each bite offers a burst of flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more. Serve them with warm marinara sauce or ranch dressing for an unforgettable dipping experience.
Ingredients
- 1 batch pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup pepperoni slices
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the pizza dough to about ½ inch thick.
- Cut the dough into circles or rectangles. On one half of each piece, layer pepperoni and mozzarella cheese, adding any additional toppings if desired.
- Fold the dough over to create pockets and crimp the edges securely.
- Place calzones on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 calzone (150g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
