Super Bowl Mini Calzones

Name: Super Bowl Mini Calzones
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24 mini calzones
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp sugar; 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp); 3/4 cup warm water; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup diced pepperoni or chopped veggies; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Marinara sauce for dipping

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Food Collection

I absolutely love making Super Bowl Mini Calzones for game day! These bite-sized goodies are perfect for sharing, and I find that they are a hit with everyone. Homemade dough filled with gooey cheese, savory meats, and a mix of veggies creates the perfect flavor explosion. Whether you're hosting a party or just indulging during the game, these mini calzones are easy to make and so much fun to eat. They’re the ultimate football snack that everyone raves about!

Created by

Isabella Clark

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:35:34.658Z

When preparing for the Super Bowl, I always want snacks that are a crowd-pleaser, and these calzones fit the bill perfectly. I start by using a simple pizza dough that I let rise, which yields a wonderfully fluffy crust. The secret is in not overfilling them; just a tablespoon of filling keeps them from leaking during baking. The balance between dough and filling is what makes these mini calzones so satisfying!

I’ve experimented with various fillings—pepperoni and cheese, loaded veggie, even spicy chicken—and I find that a mix of traditional flavors always works best. Using a homemade marinara sauce for dipping brings it all together. Your guests will be reaching for seconds before you know it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Delicious and gooey filling in every bite
Homemade dough that’s fluffy and satisfying
Perfectly portable for game day gatherings

Mastering the Dough

The homemade dough for these mini calzones forms the backbone of their delightful texture. When combining flour, salt, and the activated yeast mixture, ensure your water is warm, not hot, as temperatures above 120°F can kill the yeast. Kneading the dough until it's smooth and elastic (about 8-10 minutes) will develop gluten, creating that satisfying chewiness we crave. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a touch more flour during the kneading process, but be careful not to overdo it, which could lead to tough calzones.

Allowing the dough to rise for 20 minutes in a warm place is crucial. This short resting period allows the yeast to work its magic, causing the dough to puff up and become airy. A common mistake is not letting the dough rise long enough, resulting in dense calzones. If your kitchen is cooler, consider placing the dough in an oven preheated to the lowest setting, then turned off, covered with a damp towel, for optimal proofing.

Perfecting the Filling

The filling is where you can truly get creative! While mozzarella and ricotta form a creamy base, the addition of pepperoni or veggies introduces a flavorful punch. I recommend using fresh veggies like bell peppers or spinach, diced finely, so they incorporate well into the filling and don’t create excess moisture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, mushrooms and olives are excellent substitutes. Just ensure any ingredients you choose are well-drained to prevent the calzones from becoming soggy.

Balancing flavors with seasonings is essential. The dried oregano adds a wonderful herbaceous note, but you can also experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a brighter flavor. Be generous with salt and pepper—these components heighten the taste of the overall filling. To enhance the richness, consider mixing in a dash of Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.

Ingredients

What You Will Need:

Dough:

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

Filling:

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup diced pepperoni or chopped veggies
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

Marinara sauce for dipping

Optional Add-ins:

Feel free to customize the filling to your liking!

Instructions

How to Make Mini Calzones:

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Mix flour and salt in a separate bowl, then gradually add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Knead until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise for 20 minutes.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine mozzarella, ricotta, pepperoni or veggies, Parmesan, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Roll and Fill

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Divide the dough into small balls. Roll each ball into a circle, add a tablespoon of filling, and fold over to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork.

Bake

Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy!

Serve warm with marinara sauce!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, brush the tops of the calzones with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt before baking.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftover mini calzones, storing them correctly is key to maintaining their texture. Allow them to cool completely before wrapping in foil or placing in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, place calzones in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This method restores their crispy exterior, unlike the microwave, which can lead to a soggy texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing your calzones. Flash freeze them on a baking sheet for about 1 hour until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To cook from frozen, bake them directly from the freezer at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes. This makes them a fantastic make-ahead snack for game day or unexpected guests!

Serving Suggestions

These Super Bowl Mini Calzones are delicious on their own, but serving them with a homemade marinara sauce for dipping elevates them to another level. Simply combine canned crushed tomatoes with minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and a pinch of sugar in a small saucepan. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes for a richer flavor. You can also opt for store-bought marinara if you're short on time, but adding your own herbs and spices can make it special.

Consider creating a mini calzone bar at your gathering, where guests can customize their own fillings. Provide a variety of cheeses, meats, and veggies so everyone can tailor their calzones to their liking. This interactive element makes the event more fun and ensures that everyone gets their favorite flavor combination. Plus, it allows for a much more personal experience during your Super Bowl celebration!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before using.

→ What kind of fillings can I use?

You can use a variety of fillings including cooked meats, vegetables, and different cheeses to suit your taste.

→ How do I store leftover calzones?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I freeze calzones?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked calzones. Just assemble them, place on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid, then store in a freezer bag.