Pepperoni Calzone is a delightful twist on the classic pizza that has captured the hearts and taste buds of food lovers around the world. Originating from Italy, this savory dish is a folded pizza filled with gooey cheese, spicy pepperoni, and a medley of flavorful ingredients, making it a perfect choice for a quick meal or a satisfying snack. The calzone’s history dates back to the 18th century, when it was created as a portable meal for workers, and it has since evolved into a beloved staple in pizzerias and homes alike.

What I adore about Pepperoni Calzone is its incredible combination of taste and texture. The crispy outer crust encases a warm, melty filling that bursts with flavor in every bite. It’s not just delicious; it’s also incredibly convenient, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. Whether you’re dipping it in marinara sauce or enjoying it on its own, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Join me as we dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will surely become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 teaspoon sugar
¾ cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Filling:

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup sliced pepperoni
½ cup ricotta cheese
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Sauce:

1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon water
Extra flour for dusting

Preparing the Dough

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means the yeast is activated and ready to go! 2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture along with the olive oil. 3. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients until they come together to form a rough dough. 4. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed. 5. Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Preparing the Filling

6. While the dough is rising, let’s prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese, sliced pepperoni, ricotta cheese, dried oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix everything together until well combined. 7. Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Set it aside while the dough continues to rise.

Preparing the Sauce

8. In a small saucepan, combine the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Heat it over low heat until warmed through. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This will be the dipping sauce for our calzones!

Assembling the Calzones

9. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it back to a floured surface and divide it into 4 equal pieces. 10. Take one piece of dough and roll it out into a circle about 6-8 inches in diameter. Make sure the edges are slightly thicker than the center to hold the filling. 11. Spoon a generous amount of the filling mixture onto one half of the dough circle, leaving about ½ inch of space around the edge. 12. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal. You can use your fingers or a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch. 13. Repeat the process with the remaining pieces of dough and filling until all calzones are assembled.

Preparing for Baking

14. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. 15. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. This will give the calzones a beautiful golden color when baked. 16. Place the assembled calzones on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the egg wash to give them a nice shine. 17. Using a sharp knife, make a few small slits on the top of each calzone. This allows steam to escape while baking and prevents them from bursting.

Baking the Calzones

18. Bake the calzones in the preheated oven for

Conclusion:

In summary, this Pepperoni Calzone recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone who loves a delicious, hearty meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make. The combination of gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, and a perfectly baked crust creates a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily customize your calzone by adding your favorite ingredients, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a drizzle of spicy marinara sauce for an extra kick. I encourage you to gather your friends and family for a fun calzone-making night. Not only will you enjoy the process of creating these delightful pockets of goodness, but you’ll also have a fantastic meal to share. Don’t forget to snap a few photos of your culinary masterpiece and share your experience with me! I’d love to hear how your Pepperoni Calzone turned out and any unique twists you added to the recipe. So roll up your sleeves, get your ingredients ready, and dive into this delicious adventure. Trust me, once you try this Pepperoni Calzone, it will become a regular in your meal rotation! Print