Super Bowl Mini Calzones

Name: Super Bowl Mini Calzones
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 pieces
Ingredients: 1 pound store-bought pizza dough; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup pepperoni slices; 1/2 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)

Highlighted under: Simple Quick Meals Collection

I love making these Super Bowl Mini Calzones because they’re the perfect snack to share during game day. Each calzone is packed with delicious fillings and the crispy exterior makes them incredibly satisfying to eat. I've experimented with different doughs and fillings, but I always find myself returning to my tried-and-true combination of pepperoni and cheese. It's a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together. Plus, they’re easy to make ahead of time, which gives me more time to enjoy the festivities!

Created by

Rachel Green

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:15:35.910Z

When I first tried my hand at calzones, I thought they would be complicated to make. However, I discovered that using store-bought pizza dough made the whole process a breeze! This allowed me to focus on perfecting the filling instead of worrying about the dough. The satisfying crunch when biting into a freshly baked calzone is unbeatable!

During one Super Bowl party, I decided to experiment by adding a touch of garlic powder to the dough—you can imagine the rave reviews! Little changes like this can elevate a simple recipe, making it memorable. Now, I always keep garlic powder on hand when making these calzones.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Perfectly portable snacks for game day.
Customizable fillings to please every palate.
Crunchy, golden crust that adds texture to each bite.

      

Calzone Dough Tips

A key to achieving the perfect calzone is using high-quality pizza dough. While store-bought varieties save time, consider selecting dough from a local pizzeria for a fresher taste. If you have the time, making your own dough allows you to adjust the flavor and texture to your liking. The resting phase after taking it out of the package is crucial—allowing it to relax for 10 minutes helps prevent shrinkage when rolling it out.

When rolling out your dough, aim for ¼-inch thickness. If the dough springs back, let it rest for a few more minutes before trying again. This thickness strikes a balance between a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free pizza dough to cater to different dietary needs.

Filling Variations

While the classic pepperoni and mozzarella combination is a favorite, feel free to experiment with fillings that suit your taste. Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives for added flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, swap the pepperoni for chopped spinach and feta cheese, which creates a delightful contrast with the marinara dipping sauce.

To amp up the flavor profile, mix in some Italian herbs, like oregano or basil, directly into the cheese filling. This not only enhances the taste but also gives the calzones a fragrant aroma as they bake. Just remember not to overfill them; keeping a generous but manageable amount of filling ensures they seal properly and bake evenly.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Super Bowl Mini Calzones

Calzone Dough

1 pound store-bought pizza dough
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder

Filling

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup pepperoni slices
1/2 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)

Feel free to get creative with your fillings!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Take the pizza dough out of the package and let it rest for 10 minutes. Roll out the dough into a flat surface and divide it into 12 equal portions.

Fill the Calzones

Place a small mound of mozzarella cheese and a few slices of pepperoni on one half of each dough circle. Fold the other half over to cover the filling and pinch the edges to seal the calzone.

Bake the Calzones

Brush the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve

Let them cool for a minute, then serve with marinara sauce for dipping!

Enjoy your delicious Super Bowl Mini Calzones!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, consider adding herbs like oregano or basil to the cheese mixture.

Make-Ahead and Freezing

These Super Bowl Mini Calzones are ideal for preparing in advance. Once assembled but unbaked, you can place them on a baking sheet and freeze them. After about an hour in the freezer, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last in the freezer for up to three months, making them a convenient snack option that you can pull out whenever there's a game on.

When you’re ready to bake them, there’s no need to thaw. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. Keep an eye on them for that golden-brown crust—this can typically take an additional 2-5 minutes beyond the usual baking time. I recommend inserting a toothpick into one to ensure the cheese is bubbly and hot before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serving these calzones with a side of marinara sauce is a classic choice that enhances their flavor. For a twist, try pairing them with a garlic aioli or a spicy sriracha sauce to cater to different palates. You can also create a dipping sauce bar to wow your guests; include options like ranch dressing, pesto, or even a zesty pepper jelly.

Don’t forget presentation! Arrange the calzones on a large platter and garnish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a restaurant-style touch. This not only looks inviting but also adds a burst of flavor that complements the stuffed goodness of each calzone.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze these calzones?

Yes, you can freeze assembled calzones before baking. Just thaw and bake when ready to serve.

→ What can I use instead of pepperoni?

You can substitute with vegetables, ham, or any other favorite meats.

→ How do I ensure the calzones are fully cooked?

Make sure they are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling out when done.

→ Can I use homemade pizza dough?

Absolutely! Homemade dough works beautifully for calzones.