Touchdown Calzones
Touchdown Calzones are golden-baked pockets stuffed with savory Italian meats, melted cheese, and flavorful vegetables, perfect for game day gatherings or a hearty meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 package pizza dough (16 oz)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/4 cup cooked Italian sausage, crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle and cut into 4 equal sections.
- In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, pepperoni, sausage, bell pepper, onion, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread a tablespoon of marinara sauce onto each dough section, leaving a border around the edges.
- Divide the cheese and meat mixture evenly among the sections, placing it on top of the sauce.
- Fold each dough section over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges firmly to seal.
- Brush the calzones with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Place calzones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving with extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the filling or serve with a side of spicy marinara sauce.