Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones: A Delicious DIY Recipe

Ever thought about making your own Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones at home? We’re here to show you that it’s easier than you think!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound pizza dough
• 1 cup pepperoni slices
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce

If you’re looking to mix things up, try substituting the pepperoni with salami or the mozzarella with provolone cheese for a different flavor profile.

Timing

Preparation time: 25 minutes

Cooking time: 20 minutes

Total time: 45 minutes

This recipe takes less than an hour to prepare and cook, which is about 30% less time than the average recipe for homemade calzones.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure your calzones bake evenly.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Cut the dough into 4 equal pieces.

Step 3: Add Fillings

Place a handful of cheese and a few slices of pepperoni on one half of each piece of dough. Be sure to leave a border around the edges.

Step 4: Seal the Calzones

Fold the dough over the fillings and seal the edges by crimping with a fork. Brush the tops with a beaten egg for a glossy finish.

Step 5: Bake

Place the calzones on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Nutritional Information

Each calzone contains approximately 530 calories, 25g of protein, 54g of carbohydrates, and 25g of fat. This makes it a balanced meal, with a good mix of macronutrients.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking for a healthier version of this recipe, consider swapping the regular pizza dough for a whole wheat version, and using turkey pepperoni and low-fat mozzarella cheese.

Serving Suggestions

These calzones are perfect served with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, and a fresh green salad. For a full Italian feast, pair them with a glass of red wine.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is overfilling the calzones, which can cause them to burst open during baking. Another is not sealing the edges properly, resulting in the fillings leaking out. Take your time with these steps to ensure perfect calzones every time.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Leftover calzones can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through.

Conclusion

This recipe for homemade Pepperoni and Cheese Calzones is simple, delicious, and perfect for a fun family dinner. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments below!