If you’re looking for a fun, tasty, and bite-sized Italian treat, this pizzette mini calzoni recipe is just what you need! These little folded pizzas are crispy on the outside, cheesy and flavorful on the inside, and perfect for parties, family gatherings, or even a casual weeknight dinner. The best part? They’re simple to make and easy to customize with your favorite fillings.
In this post, we’ll walk you through an easy-to-follow pizzette mini calzoni recipe that even beginners can master. With step-by-step instructions, tips for perfect dough, and creative filling ideas, you’ll impress your friends and family with these adorable mini calzones. Let’s get cooking!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients You’ll Need
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Dough
- Prepare the Filling
- Assemble the Pizzette Mini Calzoni
- Bake to Perfection
- Tips for Perfect Mini Calzoni
- Variations You Can Try
- Serving Suggestions
- Storage and Reheating Tips
- FAQs
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here are the ingredients you’ll need for the pizzette mini calzoni recipe:
For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 packet (7g) instant yeast
- ¾ cup warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Filling:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup ricotta cheese (optional)
- ½ cup marinara or pizza sauce
- ½ cup diced pepperoni or cooked sausage (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped bell peppers
- ¼ cup chopped mushrooms
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
For Topping:
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Sesame seeds or grated parmesan (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Dough
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix everything until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 7–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Prepare the Filling
While the dough rises, prepare the filling.
- In a bowl, mix mozzarella, ricotta, pepperoni (if using), bell peppers, mushrooms, and seasoning.
- Keep the marinara sauce separate, as you’ll use it to add a spoonful in each calzone before sealing.
Assemble the Pizzette Mini Calzoni
Step 1: Divide and Roll
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into small balls (about the size of a golf ball). Roll each ball into a small circle about 4–5 inches wide.
Step 2: Fill Them Up
On one half of each circle, place a spoonful of marinara sauce and a generous spoonful of the cheese filling.
Step 3: Seal the Calzoni
Fold the dough over to cover the filling and press the edges together firmly. Use a fork to crimp the edges so the filling doesn’t spill out while baking.
Bake to Perfection
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Step 2: Egg Wash & Topping
Place the mini calzoni on the baking tray. Brush each one with beaten egg and sprinkle sesame seeds or parmesan on top if desired.
Step 3: Bake
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Serve
Let them cool slightly and serve warm with extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Tips for Perfect Mini Calzoni
- Make sure the dough circles are not too thick; this helps them bake evenly.
- Don’t overfill them, as it might cause the filling to leak.
- You can freeze the assembled but unbaked calzoni for later. Just bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
- If you prefer a crispier crust, bake at a slightly higher temperature (400°F/200°C) for a shorter time.
Variations You Can Try
Vegetarian Calzoni
Skip the meat and load them with spinach, ricotta, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives.
Meat Lovers
Add cooked ground beef, ham, bacon bits, or shredded chicken for a heartier filling.
Spicy Kick
Add jalapeños, spicy sausage, or a pinch of chili flakes to the filling.
Cheesy Delight
Use a mix of mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan for an extra cheesy experience.
Serving Suggestions
Pizzette mini calzoni are perfect as:
- Party appetizers or finger food.
- A main dish served with a fresh salad.
- A lunchbox treat for kids.
- A picnic snack.
Serve them warm with a side of marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic butter for dipping.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- To Store: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- To Freeze: Place cooled calzoni in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months.
- To Reheat: Warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or until heated through.
FAQs
What is the difference between calzone and pizzette mini calzoni?
A traditional calzone is a large folded pizza, while pizzette mini calzoni are smaller, handheld versions that are great as appetizers or snacks.
Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes, you can save time by using ready-made pizza dough. Just roll it out, fill, and bake as instructed.
What other cheeses can I use?
You can use any melty cheese like provolone, gouda, or even cream cheese mixed with herbs.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Don’t overfill the calzoni and make sure to seal the edges tightly by crimping with a fork.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble them ahead and refrigerate for up to a day before baking. You can also freeze them for later use.
Related Recipes
Conclusion
These pizzette mini calzoni are a delightful twist on classic Italian flavors. Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and fun to eat, they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering or family dinner. Whether you stick with the classic cheese and pepperoni filling or get creative with your own combinations, this recipe is a keeper.
So, put on your apron, roll up your sleeves, and start baking these little pockets of deliciousness today. Enjoy every bite!
If you’d like, I can also create a printable version of the recipe or suggest creative dipping sauces to go with them. Let me know!
Pizzette Mini Calzoni Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 sheet pizza dough
- ½ cup marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup diced pepperoni or cooked vegetables optional
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 egg for egg wash
- All-purpose flour for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out pizza dough on a floured surface to 1/8-inch thickness.
- Use a round cutter to cut dough into 3-inch circles.
- Spoon a small amount of sauce, cheese, and filling onto one half of each circle.
- Fold dough over and press edges to seal; crimp with a fork.
- Place calzoni on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
- Brush tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with oregano.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can freeze uncooked mini calzoni and bake directly from frozen.
- Customize the filling to your taste – try mushrooms, olives, or ham.
- Don’t overfill to avoid leakage during baking.
