Super Bowl Mini Calzones

Name: Super Bowl Mini Calzones
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 mini calzones
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup warm water; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1 cup pepperoni, chopped; 1/2 cup marinara sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 egg, beaten for egg wash; 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese, grated

Highlighted under: Heartfelt Kitchen

I absolutely love hosting Super Bowl parties, and one of my go-to snacks is these mini calzones. They are the perfect finger food, easy to make, and can be customized with your favorite fillings. As I prepared them, I experimented with different cheeses and toppings, and I found that adding a pinch of garlic powder really elevates the flavor. Everyone always raves about them, and they disappear within minutes at any gathering. Trust me, once you try making these, they will become a staple in your game day menu!

Created by

Adeline Morris

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:13:14.653Z

When I first made these mini calzones, I was looking for a snack that was satisfying yet easy to prepare. I decided to go with classic pepperoni and cheese, but think of all the variations you could create! The dough is simple and forgiving, and I found that letting it rest makes it easier to stretch.

One valuable tip is to ensure that you seal the edges well; I like to crimp them with a fork for extra security. That way, all the gooey cheese stays inside, and there's no messy kitchen clean-up. These mini calzones have become a regular feature at my Super Bowl gatherings!

Why You'll Love These Mini Calzones
Customizable with your favorite fillings and toppings
Easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends
Deliciously cheesy with a crispy crust that everyone adores

Perfecting the Dough

The key to achieving a perfect calzone is in the dough. Using instant yeast eliminates the need for proofing, making this recipe quicker without sacrificing flavor. Be sure to gradually incorporate the warm water; this ensures that the dough comes together smoothly and doesn't become too sticky. Kneading for five minutes should yield a dough that is elastic and silky to the touch; if it feels too dry, add a teaspoon of water, but be careful not to overdo it.

After kneading, it's crucial to let the dough rise in a warm environment. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap to trap heat and moisture. You’re aiming for the dough to double in size within about 30 minutes. If your kitchen is cool, consider placing it in an oven turned off but with the light on for gentle warmth. Once risen, punching down the dough redistributes the yeast, ensuring the calzones will puff up evenly when baked.

Filling Variations

While this recipe calls for classic mozzarella and pepperoni, the filling options are limitless. For a vegetarian twist, swap in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers. Adding a different cheese, like ricotta or provolone, can change the flavor profile significantly. Just remember to adjust the quantity to keep a balance; about one cup of filling per calzone should suffice, providing enough to make them hearty without risking leakage during baking.

If you want to try international flavors, consider using taco-style fillings or barbecue chicken. Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs and spices to elevate the taste. For those avoiding meat or dairy, vegan cheese and plant-based proteins can work wonderfully here. Just ensure they are well-seasoned, as the dough will need to carry less moisture to maintain its crispness.

Baking Tips for Crunchy Calzones

To achieve that coveted golden-brown crust, it's important to brush the tops of your calzones with a beaten egg wash before baking. This not only enhances the appearance but also adds a subtle richness. If you have it, sprinkling a pinch of sea salt or extra herbs on top before baking can amplify the flavors and aesthetic appeal. Bake them at 400°F (200°C), and keep an eye on them after 20 minutes. The perfect finish should be a crispy exterior with a slight crunch when bitten into.

If you want to make these ahead of time, you can assemble the calzones and freeze them unbaked. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze until solid, then transfer them to freezer bags. When you’re ready to serve, bake them straight from the freezer. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time and keep an eye on them to ensure they’re cooked through.

Ingredients

For the Dough

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup warm water

For the Filling

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 cup pepperoni, chopped
1/2 cup marinara sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For Brushing

1 egg, beaten for egg wash
1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, salt, sugar, and olive oil. Add warm water gradually and mix until a dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine mozzarella, pepperoni, marinara sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.

Shape the Calzones

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a circle and place 2 tablespoons of filling on one half. Fold over and seal the edges, crimping with a fork.

Bake the Calzones

Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in some sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms into the filling. Serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping.

Storing and Reheating Calzones

Leftover calzones can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To retain their crispness, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, rather than in the microwave, which can make the crust soggy. If you need to reheat multiple calzones, placing a piece of parchment paper on the baking sheet helps preserve quality.

For longer storage, homemade calzones can be frozen for up to two months. After they are baked and cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place them in freezer bags. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in the oven. This method keeps them tasting fresh and ready for game day!

Serving Suggestions

These mini calzones are fantastic on their own, but they can be paired with a variety of dips for added flavor. Consider serving them alongside a bowl of warm marinara sauce for dipping, or mix it up with pesto or a creamy ranch dressing for a richer taste. A side of pickled vegetables or a fresh salad can balance the richness and add a refreshing touch to your game-day spread.

For a fun twist, you could turn these calzones into a build-your-own station at your party. Provide a selection of fill-ins, sauces, and even toppings for guests to customize their own. This not only keeps everyone engaged but also allows them to experiment with flavors they love!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping.

→ What other fillings can I use?

You can use any combination of cheeses, meats, and vegetables. Think spinach and feta or chicken and BBQ sauce!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover calzones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

→ Can I freeze these calzones?

Absolutely! Assemble the calzones without baking, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding extra time.