These Easy Pocket-Size Calzones are a fun and delicious snack or meal that comes together quickly using refrigerated biscuit dough. With gooey Monterey Jack cheese, mini pepperoni, and a golden crust, they’re the perfect portable treat for game nights, picnics, or casual dinners.
Each bite delivers the classic flavors of pizza in a handheld size, and they pair perfectly with warm pizza sauce for dipping. Plus, the customizable filling options make them a hit with kids and adults alike!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Quick and Easy: Using store-bought biscuit dough saves time.
• Portable and Fun: Perfect for lunches, snacks, or on-the-go meals.
• Customizable: Swap out fillings to suit your taste.
Ingredients
• 16.3 oz package Pillsbury refrigerated buttermilk biscuit dough (8 biscuits total)
• 8 oz Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• ¾ cup mini pepperoni
• 1 egg, beaten
• Pizza sauce, served on the side for dipping
Optional Garnishes:
• Fresh chopped parsley
• Grated Parmesan
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
1. Roll each biscuit dough piece into a circle about ¼ inch thick.
Step 3: Add the Fillings
1. Place an even amount of shredded Monterey Jack cheese and mini pepperoni on one half of each dough circle, leaving the edges free for sealing.
Step 4: Seal the Calzones
1. Fold each circle in half to form a half-moon shape.
2. Press the edges firmly with a fork to seal them.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
1. Brush the top of each calzone with the beaten egg to create a golden, shiny crust.
2. Use a knife to cut three small slits in the top of each calzone to allow steam to escape during baking.
Step 6: Bake the Calzones
1. Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 16–18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
1. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan over the baked calzones.
2. Serve warm with a side of pizza sauce for dipping.
Tips
• Filling Variations: Try different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar and swap mini pepperoni for diced ham, cooked sausage, or sautéed vegetables.
• Seal Properly: Make sure to press the edges tightly to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
• Reheating: Warm leftover calzones in the oven or air fryer to retain their crispiness.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Store cooled calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked calzones on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Easy Pocket-Size Calzones are a delicious and versatile dish that will quickly become a family favorite. They’re the perfect balance of cheesy, savory, and crispy—try them today!
