Calzone

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Uses simple ingredients you may already have on hand.
• Perfect for busy weeknights, parties, or game-day meals.
• Easily customizable with any of your favorite pizza toppings.
• Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside—comfort food at its best.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade, about 2 lbs)
1 cup pizza sauce
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
½ cup pepperoni
½ cup sausage, cooked and crumbled
2 tablespoons butter, melted
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Lightly coat a sheet pan with cooking spray.
2. Divide the pizza dough into 4 equal pieces. On a floured surface, shape each piece into a ball, then roll into an oval about ¼-inch thick.
3. Spoon pizza sauce onto one half of each oval. Add mozzarella, pepperoni, and sausage.
4. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon. Dampen the edges with water, pinch to seal, then crimp all around. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
5. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic powder, and parsley. Brush over the tops of the calzones. Use a sharp knife to cut 2–3 small slits in each calzone for steam vents.
6. Bake for 15–17 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: About 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–17 minutes
Total Time: About 27 minutes

Variations

• Swap meats for ham, bacon, or grilled chicken.
• Add veggies like mushrooms, spinach, olives, or bell peppers.
• Use ricotta cheese for a creamier filling.
• Make a vegetarian version with extra cheese and your favorite veggies.
• Brush the tops with garlic butter and parmesan for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes or in an air fryer for a crispier finish.
Freeze unbaked or baked calzones for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge, then bake or reheat as needed.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pizza dough?

Yes, homemade dough works great and adds extra flavor.

Can I fill calzones with different toppings?

Absolutely—customize them with any of your favorite pizza toppings.

Do I need to cook vegetables before adding them?

Veggies with high moisture, like mushrooms or spinach, are best sautéed first.

Can I make these calzones ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate for a few hours before baking.

How do I prevent calzones from leaking?

Seal edges well and cut steam vents on top.

Can I air fry calzones?

Yes, air fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, checking for doneness.

What dipping sauces go well with calzones?

Marinara, ranch, garlic butter, or pesto are great options.

Can I make mini calzones?

Yes, divide dough into smaller pieces and reduce bake time slightly.

How do I keep the bottoms from getting soggy?

Use a preheated baking sheet or bake on a pizza stone.

Can I freeze leftover calzones?

Yes, freeze individually and reheat directly from frozen.

Conclusion

These homemade Calzones are easy, delicious, and endlessly customizable. With their crispy crust and flavorful, cheesy filling, they make a satisfying meal any night of the week. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or prepare ahead for a convenient, crowd-pleasing option.

Calzone

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Fast, vibrant shrimp fajitas made with a zesty Cajun-lime marinade, tender shrimp, and sautéed peppers—perfect for a flavorful weeknight meal.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
• Diet: Low Calorie

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tbsp Cajun spice
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups sliced bell peppers
• 1 cup sliced onion
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 tbsp lime juice (for topping)
• 8 soft flour tortillas
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 2 lime wedges (for serving)

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lime juice, Cajun spice, and salt to form a marinade.
2. Toss sliced bell peppers and onions with half of the marinade in a medium bowl.
3. Pat shrimp dry and coat with the remaining marinade.
4. Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
5. In the same pan, sauté the marinated vegetables until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Return shrimp to the pan, add cilantro and a splash of lime juice, and gently stir to combine.
7. Serve the shrimp and vegetables in warmed tortillas with avocado slices and lime wedges.

Notes

• Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra vegetables.
• Use chili-lime seasoning instead of Cajun for a twist.
• Swap shrimp for chicken, steak, or tofu.
• Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes for spice.
• Serve with corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 340
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 780 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Cholesterol: 170 mg