Super Bowl Mini Calzones

Name: Super Bowl Mini Calzones
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 mini calzones
Ingredients: 1 package of pizza dough (16 oz); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni; 1/4 cup ricotta cheese; 1 egg (for egg wash); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Marinara sauce (for dipping)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love whipping up these Super Bowl Mini Calzones for game day. There’s something truly satisfying about crafting these bite-sized treats that are packed with flavor. Every time I serve them, they disappear faster than I can make them! The combination of gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, and a perfectly baked crust makes for a crowd-pleaser every single time. Plus, you can customize the fillings to suit your taste, which is always a fun part of the cooking process.

Created by

Jasmine Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:52:12.159Z

When I first tried making calzones, I was amazed by how simple they are to make at home. I had always thought they were a restaurant-only treat. The key to the perfect calzone is to not overfill them, which ensures a tasty crust without any sogginess. After a few attempts, I settled on a mix of mozzarella and pepperoni, but you can easily switch it up with veggies or different meats!

As I prepped these mini calzones for a recent Super Bowl gathering, I noticed how they are the perfect game-day snack. They can be prepped ahead and baked fresh, which makes throwing together a last-minute party a breeze. I serve them hot with marinara sauce for dipping, and they always steal the show!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Perfectly bite-sized for snacking and sharing
Easy to customize with your favorite fillings
Golden-brown crust that’s irresistibly crispy

      

Crafting the Perfect Dough

The foundation of your Super Bowl Mini Calzones is the dough, so getting it right is crucial. I recommend using refrigerated pizza dough for convenience, as it already has the right texture and flavor. If you prefer homemade dough, let it rise properly until it doubles in size, which usually takes about 1-2 hours. This not only adds to the dough's flavor but also ensures a fluffier calzone.

When rolling out the dough, keep it about 1/4 inch thick. A thicker dough may lead to chewy calzones, while a thinner one might not hold the fillings. Use a light dusting of flour to prevent sticking, and make sure your rounds are uniform in size to promote even cooking. If you find the dough too elastic, let it rest for a few minutes to relax the gluten.

Flavor Combinations and Fillings

The beauty of calzones lies in their versatility. While the classic pepperoni and mozzarella combination is delightful, feel free to experiment with other fillings. For a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers. You can also swap out the ricotta for cream cheese or goat cheese for a richer flavor.

Seasoning is essential for enhancing flavor. Besides the garlic powder and Italian seasoning, you can customize by adding red pepper flakes for heat or basil for a fresh twist. Mixing the cheeses gives you a tantalizing gooeyness, so don’t hesitate to incorporate provolone or fontina to the mozzarella for a uniquely zesty taste.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

Once baked, allow the calzones to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the cheese set slightly, making them easier to handle. Serve them with warm marinara sauce or even a spicy ranch dip for a fun twist. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan on top for enhanced flavor and presentation.

If you have leftovers—or simply want to prep ahead for game day—store the calzones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. You can also freeze them before baking; just ensure they are wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to your cooking time.

Ingredients

For the Calzones

1 package of pizza dough (16 oz)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
1/4 cup ricotta cheese
1 egg (for egg wash)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Marinara sauce (for dipping)

Feel free to add your favorite toppings or substitutes for a personalized touch!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Dough

Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut out 3-4 inch rounds using a cookie cutter or a glass.

Fill the Calzones

On one half of each round, layer mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, and pepperoni. Sprinkle garlic powder and Italian seasoning for added flavor.

Seal the Calzones

Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, and crimp with a fork for a decorative touch.

Egg Wash and Bake

Beat the egg and brush it on top of the calzones for a golden color. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving with warm marinara sauce!

Pro Tips

For a cheesier filling, experiment with adding different types of cheese such as cheddar or provolone. You can also try including vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your calzones are bursting during baking, it may be due to overfilling or not sealing the edges properly. Use a fork to crimp the edges tightly to prevent leakage. If they’re burning on the bottom, make sure your oven temperature is accurate and consider using a pizza stone or an inverted baking sheet for even heat distribution.

Should your dough be too tough, it might be overworked. Make sure to handle it gently and allow it to rest, as mentioned earlier. Under-kneading also affects texture, so aim for smooth and elastic dough without any lumps. A little patience goes a long way in achieving that perfect calzone texture.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're expecting a larger crowd, this recipe scales beautifully. Simply multiply the ingredients accordingly. I recommend preparing a test batch to ensure you’re happy with the ratios. For instance, if doubling the recipe, consider adding a few different fillings to keep things interesting.

When scaling up, be mindful of your oven capacity; you may need to bake in batches. Arrange the calzones on multiple baking sheets, ensuring they have enough space to expand while baking. This helps them cook evenly and develop that desired crispy golden crust without steaming.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance, wrap it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator.

→ How do I reheat leftover calzones?

Simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.

→ Can I freeze calzones?

Yes! Once cooled, place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to two months.

→ What are some other filling ideas?

You can use cooked sausage, grilled chicken, or even a mix of different vegetables. The possibilities are endless!