Super Bowl Mini Calzones

Name: Super Bowl Mini Calzones
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 calzones
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast; 1 tsp sugar; 1 tsp salt; 3/4 cup warm water; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni or cooked vegetables (optional); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 egg, beaten; Parmesan cheese for sprinkling

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Super Bowl Mini Calzones for game day! They’re so easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, which makes them perfect for sharing with friends and family. I like to customize the fillings, and whether I go for classic pepperoni or a veggie-packed option, everyone always leaves the table happy. These mini calzones are not only a hit, but they also give me a chance to showcase my culinary skills while keeping the crowd satisfied!

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:37:10.433Z

When I first made Super Bowl Mini Calzones, I was looking for a crowd-pleaser that offered both flavor and creativity. I experimented with different doughs and fillings and found that a simple pizza dough stuffed with cheese and your favorite toppings works remarkably well. Baking them until golden creates a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the melty interior.

One tip I learned along the way is to let the calzones rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the filling set slightly, making them easier to eat without oozing all over. Trust me; it's worth the wait!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Customizable fillings to suit everyone's tastes
Perfectly golden crust with a soft interior
Ideal for game day or any casual gathering

      

Techniques for Perfect Dough

The dough is the foundation of your mini calzones, and getting it right is essential for that perfect golden crust. When mixing, be sure to gradually add the water and olive oil to prevent a sticky dough. Kneading for at least 5 minutes helps develop gluten, which gives the calzones a chewy yet soft texture. If your dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a small amount of flour until it’s manageable, but avoid adding too much or you risk a dense end result.

During the rising period, choose a warm spot in your kitchen, as yeast thrives in such environments. This resting time allows the dough to double in size, giving you a light, airy calzone. If your room is particularly chilly, consider letting the dough rise in an oven that’s been warmed and then turned off, placing it wrapped in a clean towel for an extra boost.

When rolling out the dough, aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch. If it’s too thick, the calzones may not cook through, while overly thin dough can result in tearing. Use a round cutter or a small bowl to ensure consistent circles, making them all the same size for even cooking.

Flavorful Fillings and Variations

The filling is where you can really customize these mini calzones to your liking. While mozzarella and ricotta create a classic creamy base, adding vegetables like sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even sun-dried tomatoes can enhance flavor and add nutritional value. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider mixing in jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese in place of mozzarella.

For those who are vegan or dairy-free, substitute the cheeses with cashew ricotta or a blend of tofu and nutritional yeast, both of which mimic the creaminess of traditional cheese. You can also use a store-bought pizza dough to save time, but keep an eye on the baking instructions, as they may differ from homemade.

If you're preparing these for a crowd, think about making a variety of fillings and labeling them. Mini calzones also freeze beautifully, so you can prep them ahead of time. Just be sure to freeze them uncooked on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag after they’re firm. They’ll last up to three months and can be baked straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your calzones:

For the Dough

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

For the Filling

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup sliced pepperoni or cooked vegetables (optional)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping

1 egg, beaten
Parmesan cheese for sprinkling

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to bring the calzones to life!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Super Bowl Mini Calzones:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil to form a dough. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth.

Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise for 15 minutes.

Make the Filling

In another bowl, combine the mozzarella, ricotta, pepperoni (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.

Shape the Calzones

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut it into 4-inch circles. Place a spoonful of filling on one side of each circle, fold over, and seal the edges with a fork.

Bake and Serve

Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with Parmesan. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown. Let rest before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Super Bowl Mini Calzones with marinara sauce for dipping!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different fillings like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even leftover grilled chicken. These calzones are versatile and can be tailored to what you have on hand.

Serving Suggestions

Mini calzones make a great finger food for parties, especially during the Super Bowl! Consider pairing them with dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or even a spicy aioli to elevate the experience. I like to serve them on a large platter with a variety of dips so guests can mix and match their flavors, encouraging them to try different combinations and discover new favorites.

You can also offer side options such as a fresh salad or a veggie platter to complement the richness of the calzones. The crunchiness of raw veggies can balance the gooeyness of the cheese, while a light salad dressed in vinaigrette will refresh the palate between bites.

If you're looking for a fun twist, why not create a calzone bar? Set out an array of fillings, sauces, and toppings and let your guests assemble their own mini calzones before baking. This interactive approach is a hit at gatherings and ensures that everyone gets a flavor combination they love.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your calzones are bursting open while baking, it’s likely that you overfilled them or didn’t seal the edges well enough. Ensure you only use a spoonful of filling, and press the edges firmly with a fork to create a tight seal. Don't rush this step, as a good seal prevents leakage and keeps the filling intact while baking.

If you find that your calzone crust is browning too quickly, you can cover them loosely with aluminum foil halfway through the baking time. This will prevent over-browning while allowing the insides to cook through. For an even better crust, rotate the baking sheet halfway during baking to ensure that all sides are golden brown.

In the unlikely event that your calzones seem undercooked after 15 minutes, don't hesitate to leave them in the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on their color; they should have a beautiful golden hue on all sides. The internal cheese should also be bubbling for a delightful cheesy experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, using store-bought dough can save time! Just roll it out and follow the same filling and baking instructions.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispiness.

→ Can I freeze these calzones?

Absolutely! Freeze uncooked calzones on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen for about 20-25 minutes.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with calzones?

Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but ranch or garlic sauce also complements them nicely.