Super Bowl Mini Calzones

Name: Super Bowl Mini Calzones
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 mini calzones
Ingredients: 1 package refrigerated pizza dough; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup pepperoni slices, chopped; 1/2 cup ricotta cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Party Seasonal Food Collection

I love making these Super Bowl Mini Calzones for game day gatherings. They’re bite-sized, bursting with flavor, and incredibly easy to customize with your favorite fillings. As we settle in to watch the big game, these calzones are a hit with everyone. The crispy dough combined with gooey cheese and savory toppings creates the perfect snack to share. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and simply baked when you're ready, making them a fuss-free addition to our Super Bowl spread.

Created by

Ophelia Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:21:50.435Z

When we first made these calzones, we weren’t sure how they would turn out, but the result was fantastic! Using store-bought dough simplifies the process without compromising on taste. We filled them with pepperoni, mozzarella, and a touch of Italian spices, and they came out golden and delicious.

A helpful tip we discovered is to brush the tops of the calzones with olive oil before baking. This gives them that perfect golden color and adds a delightful crunch that everyone loves. They’re perfect for mixing up flavors, so feel free to experiment!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Deliciously crispy exterior that holds up to generous fillings
Customizable with your favorite ingredients, from cheese to veggies
Perfect finger food for game day or any casual gathering

Perfecting the Dough

The foundation of any great calzone is the dough, and while refrigerated pizza dough is a convenient option, you can elevate your mini calzones by making your own from scratch. If you opt for homemade dough, let it rest for at least 30 minutes after kneading to allow the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out. Aim for a smooth and elastic texture; if it's too sticky, a sprinkle of flour can help without compromising the moisture needed for a chewy bite.

When rolling out the dough, ensure it’s evenly thin—about 1/8-inch thick is ideal. This thickness allows for a crispy exterior while ensuring it can hold generous fillings without tearing. Check for any holes or thin spots by lifting the dough; these can lead to leaking fillings during baking. If you discover any, simply patch them with a piece of scrap dough.

Creative Filling Ideas

While the classic filling of mozzarella and pepperoni is delicious, feel free to mix and match based on your preference. For a vegetarian twist, swap the pepperoni for sautéed mushrooms and spinach, or try adding diced bell peppers for extra crunch. If you're looking for a spicy kick, consider incorporating a few jalapeño slices or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the filling mix. Just be cautious with how much you add, as too many wet ingredients can make sealing the calzones tricky.

You can also add extra flavor with different cheeses. For instance, an aged provolone or even a smoky gouda can bring a new dimension to the taste profile. Just remember to keep a balance so that the calzone doesn’t become too rich. Mixing in some fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before sealing adds freshness that pairs well with the melted cheese.

Baking Tips and Make-Ahead Strategies

For the best results, ensure that your oven is fully preheated before placing your calzones inside. This initial blast of heat helps achieve that coveted golden-brown exterior. Consider using a pizza stone if you have one, as it retains heat well and can give a crispier bottom. Keep an eye on them while baking; they typically take 20-25 minutes, but check for a deep golden hue and a bubbling filling as indicators of doneness.

If you're planning to serve these at a later time, you can prepare the calzones and freeze them before they are baked. Simply arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to bake, no need to thaw—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This makes them a great make-ahead option for busy game days!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful snack:

For the Dough

1 package refrigerated pizza dough
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Filling

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup pepperoni slices, chopped
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

These ingredients will help you craft the perfect mini calzones!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your calzones:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Dough

Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into circles about 4 inches in diameter.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine the mozzarella, pepperoni, ricotta, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Calzones

Place a spoonful of the filling onto one half of each dough circle. Fold the other half over the filling and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for an extra secure seal.

Bake

Brush the tops with beaten egg and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your mini calzones fresh out of the oven!

Pro Tips

You can easily switch up the fillings to include sautéed vegetables, different meats, or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor. For a dipping sauce, try marinara or ranch for a delicious complement!

Serving Suggestions

These mini calzones are not only delicious on their own but can also be accompanied by a variety of dips. Consider serving them with marinara sauce for a classic flavor, or elevate the experience with a sweet chili sauce for a hint of heat. For a more gourmet touch, a balsamic reduction can bring a beautiful contrast to the cheesy filling.

You can also serve them on a platter with a selection of fresh vegetables and a creamy dip. This not only adds color to your game-day spread but also complements the flavors of the calzones nicely. I personally enjoy pairing them with a tangy ranch or a zesty pesto for a delightful combination.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your calzones are leaking filling during baking, it often results from overfilling or not sealing them properly. Make sure to leave a margin around the edges and ensure the seal is tight. Using a fork to crimp the edges adds an additional layer of security against leaks. If you experience dough that is tough or chewy, it may have been overworked during rolling; handle the dough gently and avoid excessive stretching.

Sometimes, the dough can be too dry, resulting in a tough texture. In this case, consider adding a touch more olive oil to the dough or adjusting your flour measurement. Remember that humidity can affect dough consistency, so if you live in a particularly dry area, it may be beneficial to add a little more moisture. Keep an eye on the dough’s feel and adjust as necessary for optimal results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute any of your favorite cheeses. Cheddar, feta, or even a mixture of cheeses can enhance the flavors.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.

→ Can I freeze these calzones?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just ensure they are fully sealed and wrap them tightly. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I serve with calzones?

They pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, olive oil for dipping, and a fresh salad on the side for a complete meal.