Super Bowl Mini Calzones

Name: Super Bowl Mini Calzones
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 mini calzones
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon instant yeast; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup warm water; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup pepperoni, sliced; 1/2 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1/4 cup ricotta cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Marinara sauce; Ranch dressing; Parmesan cheese for sprinkling

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love hosting Super Bowl parties, and these mini calzones have become a staple in my game day spread. They are not only fun to eat but also incredibly customizable, allowing everyone to choose their favorite fillings. As I prepare them, the aroma of warm dough and melted cheese fills my kitchen, creating the perfect atmosphere for a day filled with football and friends. Plus, they're great for serving a crowd, making them an ideal choice for any gathering.

Created by

Maya Richardson

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:25:11.912Z

While developing this recipe, I experimented with various doughs and fillings to achieve that perfect blend of flavors. The combination of rich mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and fresh spinach encapsulated in a golden-brown crust is simply unbeatable. I found that adding a bit of Italian seasoning to the dough elevates the calzones to a whole new level.

Serving them is where the fun begins! I often prepare a range of dipping sauces alongside, from classic marinara to spicy ranch, making each bite an adventure. This way, guests can mix and match their favorites, enhancing the party vibe even more.

        Why You'll Love These Mini Calzones
        Perfectly portable for game day snacking
Endless filling options to cater to all tastes
Golden, flaky crust that everyone will enjoy

      

Dough Mastery

The dough for these mini calzones is simple but requires attention to detail. Use high-quality all-purpose flour, as it gives the calzones the right balance of chewiness and tenderness. When mixing the dough, add warm water gradually until it forms a cohesive mixture. Kneading is essential; it develops gluten, which creates the desired elastic texture. After kneading for about five minutes, let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size for optimal flavor and structure.

A key tip is to ensure your water is warm but not hot – around 110°F (43°C) is perfect. If your dough doesn’t rise, it might be due to old yeast or too cold of an environment. In that case, place the dough in a turned-off oven with a bowl of hot water to create a warm, moist atmosphere, which helps the yeast activate.

Filling Variations

The filling is where you can get creative! While the classic combination of mozzarella and pepperoni is always a hit, consider switching up the cheeses. For a bolder flavor, try adding provolone or fontina. If you wish to keep it vegetarian, swap out pepperoni for roasted red peppers or artichokes. Don't forget to squeeze in some lemon juice over the spinach to brighten the flavors and keep the greens vibrant.

When assembling the calzones, try not to overfill them, as this can lead to leaks during baking. A tablespoon of filling should be sufficient; you want a good taste of everything without overwhelming the dough. If you want a glossy finish, brush the tops with olive oil or a beaten egg before baking for that golden sheen.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for these delicious mini calzones:

For the Dough

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

For the Fillings

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup pepperoni, sliced
1/2 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/4 cup ricotta cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Marinara sauce
Ranch dressing
Parmesan cheese for sprinkling

Make sure to customize the fillings as per your taste!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your mini calzones:

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth.

Cover and let it rise for 30 minutes.

Make the Filling

In a separate bowl, mix together mozzarella, pepperoni, spinach, ricotta, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning according to your taste.

Assemble the Calzones

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out small portions of dough into circles. Place a tablespoon of filling on one half of each circle, then fold and seal the edges using a fork.

Bake

Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy these delicious calzones with your favorite dipping sauces!

Pro Tips

Feel free to get creative with the fillings! Try adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even some sweetened ricotta for a dessert version.

Serving Suggestions

These mini calzones pair beautifully with dipping sauces. Keep it classic with marinara sauce for a tangy contrast to the richness of the cheese. For a fun twist, try ranch dressing, which complements the savory filling perfectly. You can also sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top right before serving to enhance the flavors.

If you're hosting a game day gathering, consider presenting an array of dipping options. Set up a dipping bar with marinara, ranch, pesto, and a zesty buffalo sauce, allowing guests to personalize their snacks. This interactive element can be a fun, engaging addition to your party.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Mini calzones can be made ahead of time, making them a perfect candidate for your Super Bowl preparations. After assembling them, you can freeze the unbaked calzones. Place them on a baking sheet in the freezer, then once frozen, transfer them into a resealable freezer bag. They will keep for up to three months. When you're ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; just add an extra five minutes to the baking time.

To store leftover calzones, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for about 2-3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust chewy instead of maintaining that flaky texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day ahead and refrigerate it until ready to use.

→ What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?

You can use cheddar, provolone, or any cheese of your choice for a different flavor.

→ Can these calzones be frozen?

Yes, baked calzones can be frozen. Just reheat them in the oven when ready to serve.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with calzones?

Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a garlic butter dip are great choices!