Super Bowl Mini Calzones
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
As a big fan of game day snacks, I love preparing Super Bowl Mini Calzones. These bite-sized delights are not only delicious but incredibly fun to make with friends and family. I discovered that using a mix of savory fillings makes each calzone a little surprise. Whether stuffed with classic pepperoni and cheese or a veggie twist, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they're perfect for dipping in marinara sauce!
When I first made Super Bowl Mini Calzones, I was blown away by how easy and customizable they are. I experimented with various fillings and learned that letting the dough rest before rolling it out makes it stretch effortlessly. You can fill them with whatever you love—there’s really no wrong way to go about it!
I also discovered that baking them on a stone gives them a crispy crust that rivals any pizzeria's. They not only looked beautiful on the table, but the aroma filled the house, tempting everyone to grab one before the game even started.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Customizable fillings to satisfy every palate
- Crispy golden crust that is sure to impress
- Perfect for sharing with friends and family
Dough Preparation Techniques
A critical step in making the calzone dough is ensuring the yeast activates properly. When you mix the warm water with yeast and sugar, make sure the water temperature is around 110°F. If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast; if it’s too cool, the yeast won’t activate. You'll know the mixture is ready when it becomes frothy, which usually takes about 5 minutes. This vital stage helps the dough rise beautifully, ensuring a light and airy texture in your calzones.
Kneading the dough is another important technique that can significantly affect the outcome. Aim to knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If you find the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as you knead, but be careful not to add too much, as this can lead to a dense final product. Properly kneaded dough should spring back when poked and have a glossy appearance, indicating that the gluten has developed well.
Customizing Your Fillings
One of the best things about these mini calzones is the versatility of fillings. While the classic combination of ricotta and mozzarella is delightful, consider other cheese options like provolone or feta for a unique twist. You can also explore different meat options such as cooked sausage or even grilled chicken. If you’re looking for vegetarian alternatives, roasted zucchini and mushrooms can add depth of flavor and texture. Feel free to experiment with spices like Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes to enhance the filling further.
When assembling your calzones, avoid overfilling them, as this can lead to leakage during baking. A generous tablespoon of each filling should suffice, ensuring you can still easily fold and seal them without tears. If you have leftover fillings, incorporate them into a dipping sauce, mixing them into the marinara for extra flavor. This not only reduces waste but also enhances your overall flavor experience.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients for these delicious mini calzones!
Calzone Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm water (110°F)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Fillings
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup pepperoni slices
- ¼ cup sautéed bell peppers and onions
- ¼ cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
Now that you have everything ready, let's get cooking!
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your mini calzones!
Prepare the Dough
In a bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
Assemble the Calzones
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness. Cut circles using a cookie cutter or a glass.
Bake
Place calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with olive oil and cut small slits to allow steam to escape. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Your Super Bowl Mini Calzones are ready to enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle some Italian seasoning over the calzones before baking.
Serving and Dipping Suggestions
Super Bowl Mini Calzones are not only great for snacking; they can also be an impressive addition to any gathering. Serve them on a large platter, warm from the oven, with various dipping sauces beyond marinara. Consider offering a spicy ranch or an herbed yogurt dip for an unexpected flavor pairing. Additionally, a side of garlic butter can elevate the tasting experience, giving your guests the option to customize each bite.
For a more festive presentation, arrange the calzones alongside a vibrant salad, or even serve with an antipasto platter featuring cured meats, olives, and marinated vegetables. This enhances the shared experience, creating a buffet-style atmosphere that encourages guests to interact and enjoy their food.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Preparing these mini calzones ahead of time can save you stress on game day. You can make the dough and fillings a day in advance. Store the dough in the fridge, wrapped in plastic to prevent it from drying out, and let it come to room temperature before rolling it out for assembly. For the fillings, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This also allows the flavors to meld, enhancing their taste when baked.
If you have leftover baked calzones, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in a 350°F oven for about 10-12 minutes until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked calzones on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 425°F for an additional 5-10 minutes, and you’ll have fresh calzones ready to go whenever you like!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead, let it rise, and store it in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before using.
→ What other fillings can I use?
Feel free to get creative! Some great options include cooked sausage, spinach, mushrooms, and different types of cheeses.
→ How do I store leftover calzones?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven for crispiness.
→ Can I freeze the calzones?
Absolutely! Freeze them before baking. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
Super Bowl Mini Calzones
As a big fan of game day snacks, I love preparing Super Bowl Mini Calzones. These bite-sized delights are not only delicious but incredibly fun to make with friends and family. I discovered that using a mix of savory fillings makes each calzone a little surprise. Whether stuffed with classic pepperoni and cheese or a veggie twist, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they're perfect for dipping in marinara sauce!
Created by: Summer Blake
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 calzones
What You'll Need
Calzone Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm water (110°F)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Fillings
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup pepperoni slices
- ¼ cup sautéed bell peppers and onions
- ¼ cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center, add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness. Cut circles using a cookie cutter or a glass. On one half, place a spoonful of ricotta, mozzarella, and your choice of fillings. Fold the other half over and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for extra security.
Place calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with olive oil and cut small slits to allow steam to escape. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle some Italian seasoning over the calzones before baking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 9g