Super Bowl Party Food Mini Calzones

Name: Super Bowl Party Food Mini Calzones
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 mini calzones
Ingredients: 1 package store-bought pizza dough; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup cooked pepperoni slices; 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms; 1/2 cup spinach, chopped; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love hosting Super Bowl watch parties, and these Mini Calzones have become a staple of our game-day menu. The combination of delicious fillings, a golden-brown crust, and the ability to customize them to suit any taste makes them a perfect fit for my guests. From pepperoni and cheese to veggie-packed versions, these calzones are easy to grab and enjoy while cheering on your favorite team. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, allowing me to enjoy the game just as much as my friends!

Created by

Jasmine Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:46:16.879Z

When I first made these Mini Calzones, I was worried that they'd be too complicated to perfect. However, I quickly realized that using store-bought pizza dough saves a ton of time and allows me to focus on creating delicious fillings. I tried different combinations, and I enjoyed the pepperoni and cheese most of all—it's just so nostalgic!

One tip that really improved my calzone game is to pre-cook heartier fillings like sautéed vegetables or sausage. This not only enhances their flavor but also ensures that the dough cooks through without getting soggy. Trust me, once you’ve perfected this step, you’ll want to make them for every gathering!

        Why You'll Love These Mini Calzones
        Customizable fillings to suit every taste preference
Ideal finger food for social gatherings and parties
Deliciously flaky crust that perfectly envelops the savory filling

      

Techniques for Perfect Calzone Crust

Getting the crust just right is essential for delicious Mini Calzones. Roll the pizza dough to 1/4-inch thick for the perfect balance between crispiness and chewiness. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can lead to a tough texture. If your dough feels sticky, lightly dust it with flour to prevent it from sticking to your surface and rolling pin.

It's crucial to preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) before baking. This temperature ensures that the calzones cook through evenly and develop a beautifully golden crust. For a superior crunch, consider placing a pizza stone in the oven while it preheats, giving the calzones direct heat from below which enhances browning.

Customizing Your Fillings

One of the best things about these Mini Calzones is their versatility. The filling can be adjusted to cater to various dietary preferences or leftover ingredients. If you want a vegetarian option, try replacing pepperoni with roasted red peppers or zucchini. For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture.

If gluten is a concern, opt for gluten-free pizza dough available at most grocery stores. Just make sure to check the packaging for baking instructions, as gluten-free dough often has different requirements for cooking times or temperatures.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These Mini Calzones can easily be made ahead of time, which is perfect for a Super Bowl party. Once assembled, you can freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer; just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

For reheating, place the calzones in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crisp. Avoid the microwave, as it tends to make the crust soggy instead of maintaining that desirable crunch.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started on your mini calzones:

For the Calzones

1 package store-bought pizza dough
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup cooked pepperoni slices
1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms
1/2 cup spinach, chopped
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste

Make sure to have everything prepped before you begin folding!

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfectly baked mini calzones:

Prepare Pizza Dough

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface until it's about 1/4-inch thick. Cut into 4-inch circles using a round cutter or a glass.

Mix Fillings

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Fill and Fold

Place a tablespoon of the filling mixture in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, then pinch the edges to seal.

Brush and Bake

Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden color. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping if desired.

Enjoy your delicious mini calzones as you cheer on your team!

Pro Tips

You can experiment with different fillings, such as grilled chicken and buffalo sauce or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that any meat is fully cooked before adding it to the filling.

Serving Suggestions

When serving Mini Calzones, think about offering a variety of dipping sauces to elevate the experience. Classic marinara is a favorite, but consider trying pesto, alfredo sauce, or a spicy chipotle dip for a twist. Presentation in a divided platter allows guests to explore different flavors without compromising the integrity of the calzones themselves.

You can also serve these calzones alongside a fresh salad. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the calzones and provides a refreshing counterpoint. Having a mix of both snacks and lighter fare allows everyone to find something they enjoy.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your calzones are leaking filling during baking, it may be due to overfilling. Aim for one tablespoon of the filling per calzone and seal them tightly. Additionally, ensure the edges are pinched securely to prevent any escapes during baking, which can result in burnt spots on your baking sheet.

Another common issue is a soggy crust. To remedy this, ensure toppings like sautéed mushrooms are adequately drained before adding them to the filling. Additionally, you can pre-bake the dough circles for about 5 minutes before filling. This creates a barrier that helps keep the crust crispy even with moist fillings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the calzones ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the calzones a day in advance and refrigerate them. Just bake them when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I use instead of pizza dough?

You can use crescent roll dough or puff pastry for a different texture and flavor.

→ Do I need to ventilate the calzones?

Yes, it's a good idea to cut a small slit on top of each calzone to allow steam to escape while baking.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Cooked calzones can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.