This easy homemade calzone recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a cheesy, golden, and crispy pizza pocket right from your kitchen! Made with fluffy pizza dough, gooey mozzarella, ricotta, savory pepperoni, and salami, these oven-baked calzones are a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea, game-day snack, or meal-prep option, this Italian-style calzone is simple to make and packed with flavor. Serve them with marinara sauce, ranch, or garlic butter for the ultimate comfort food experience. Try this easy calzone dough recipe today and enjoy restaurant-quality results at home!

Ingredients

2 lbs pizza dough
1 cup pizza sauce
1 cup pepperoni
1/2 cup salami, sliced
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 475°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.
Divide & Roll: Divide the pizza dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each piece into a 1/4-inch thick circle.
Add the Filling: Spread pizza sauce on half of each dough circle, leaving the edges clean. Layer with ricotta cheese, pepperoni, salami, and shredded mozzarella.
Fold & Seal: Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly and crimp them to seal.
Prepare for Baking: Arrange the calzones on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart. Cut a small vent on the top of each calzone to release steam.
Brush & Sprinkle: Lightly brush the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 15 minutes or until the calzones turn golden brown.
Serve & Enjoy: Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with extra pizza sauce for dipping!

Tips

Use store-bought or homemade pizza dough for convenience.
Don’t overfill the calzones to prevent them from bursting open while baking.
Seal the edges properly by pressing firmly and using a fork to crimp them.
Add an egg wash instead of oil for a shinier, golden crust.
Let the calzones cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burning your mouth on hot filling.

Variations and Substitutions

Cheese Options: Try provolone, cheddar, or feta for a unique twist.
Meat Variations: Swap out pepperoni and salami for ham, cooked sausage, or grilled chicken.
Vegetarian Option: Fill with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives instead of meat.
Gluten-Free Alternative: Use a gluten-free pizza dough.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the filling for extra heat.

FAQs

Can I make calzones ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them, refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.

Can I freeze calzones?
Absolutely! Freeze unbaked calzones on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.

How do I reheat calzones?
Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10-12 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

With Marinara Sauce: Serve with extra warm pizza or marinara sauce for dipping.
Alongside a Salad: Pair with a fresh Caesar or garden salad for a balanced meal.
With Garlic Butter: Brush with melted garlic butter right after baking for extra flavor.
For a Party: Serve mini calzones as a fun appetizer for game nights or gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Made with simple ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes.
Customizable: Fill with your favorite meats, cheeses, and veggies.
Perfect for Any Meal: Great for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
Kid-Friendly: Fun to make and eat—kids love stuffing their own calzones!

Enjoy these homemade calzones that are crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and packed with delicious flavors!