Introduction
Pepperoni and cheese calzones are a delicious and satisfying Italian dish that combines the flavors of melted cheese and savory pepperoni, all wrapped up in a warm and flaky crust. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to impress. In this article, we’ll explore the history and cultural significance of calzones, as well as provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make your own mouthwatering pepperoni and cheese calzones at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons why you’ll fall in love with this pepperoni and cheese calzone recipe. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen tools, you can whip up a batch of these delicious calzones in no time. Secondly, the combination of melted cheese and flavorful pepperoni creates a taste sensation that is hard to resist. The gooey cheese and crispy crust make for the perfect bite. Lastly, these calzones are highly customizable. You can add your favorite toppings or experiment with different types of cheese to create your own unique flavor profile.
Ingredients
To make these delectable pepperoni and cheese calzones, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound pizza dough
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Additional marinara sauce for dipping
Optional ingredient substitutions:
If you prefer a different type of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, feel free to substitute it for the mozzarella. You can also add other toppings like mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions to customize your calzones to your liking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your own mouthwatering pepperoni and cheese calzones:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Divide the pizza dough into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and let them rest for 5 minutes.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out each dough ball into a circle or oval shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread a spoonful of marinara sauce onto one half of each dough round, leaving a border around the edges.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce, and then layer the pepperoni slices on top.
- Sprinkle dried oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if desired) over the pepperoni.
- Fold the empty half of the dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal.
- Crimp the edges with a fork or twist and fold the edges to create a decorative crust.
- Brush the tops of the calzones with olive oil to give them a golden brown color.
- Transfer the calzones to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the calzones are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Expert Tips for Success
Here are a few expert tips to ensure your pepperoni and cheese calzones turn out perfectly:
- Make sure the pizza dough is at room temperature before rolling it out. This will make it easier to work with and prevent it from shrinking back.
- Don’t overload the calzones with too much filling, as this can cause them to burst open during baking.
- For extra flavor, brush the crust with melted garlic butter before baking.
- Serve the calzones with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Variations and Substitutions
While pepperoni and cheese is a classic combination, you can get creative with your calzone fillings. Here are a few ideas:
- Vegetarian: Swap the pepperoni for your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
- Meat lovers: Add cooked Italian sausage or crispy bacon along with the pepperoni.
- Chicken and pesto: Use cooked chicken breast and pesto sauce instead of pepperoni and marinara.
- Four cheese: Use a combination of mozzarella, cheddar, provolone, and Parmesan cheeses for a cheesy delight.
Serving Suggestions
Pepperoni and cheese calzones are a complete meal on their own, but you can enhance the dining experience by serving them with a few accompaniments. Here are a few ideas:
- Fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
- Marinated olives
- Garlic knots or breadsticks
- Italian soda or a glass of red wine
FAQs
Q: Can I make the dough from scratch?
A: Absolutely! If you have the time and prefer homemade dough, you can make it from scratch using a simple pizza dough recipe.
Q: Can I freeze the calzones?
A: Yes, you can freeze the calzones before baking. Just assemble them as instructed, but instead of baking, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Final Thoughts
Pepperoni and cheese calzones are a delightful and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, lunch, or dinner. With their crispy crust, gooey cheese, and flavorful pepperoni, they are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply craving a comforting meal, these homemade calzones are the perfect choice. So why not give this recipe a try and experience the joy of sinking your teeth into a warm and cheesy calzone?
Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones
Delicious and satisfying Italian calzones filled with melted cheese, savory pepperoni, and flavorful seasonings, wrapped in a warm and flaky crust.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pizza dough
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Additional marinara sauce for dipping
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Divide the pizza dough into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and let them rest for 5 minutes.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out each dough ball into a circle or oval shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread a spoonful of marinara sauce onto one half of each dough round, leaving a border around the edges.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce, and then layer the pepperoni slices on top.
- Sprinkle dried oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if desired) over the pepperoni.
- Fold the empty half of the dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal.
- Crimp the edges with a fork or twist and fold the edges to create a decorative crust.
- Brush the tops of the calzones with olive oil to give them a golden brown color.
- Transfer the calzones to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the calzones are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
