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Cheap Pizza Calzones

Crave-Worthy Comfort: Cheap Pizza Calzones Recipe

Indulge in a budget-friendly twist on a beloved classic with our delicious Cheap Pizza Calzones. Made with simple ingredients and bursting with flavor, these homemade calzones are a satisfying treat for any pizza lover. With a crispy crust, gooey cheese, and savory pepperoni, these calzones are sure to become a family favorite. Plus, they’re easy on the wallet, making them perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. Join us as we uncover the secrets to creating these irresistible Cheap Pizza Calzones that will have everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients:

  • Pillsbury Pizza Crust (Thin Crust) or any frozen pizza crust
  • Armour Pepperoni
  • Mozzarella Cheese
  • Butter
  • Garlic Powder
  • Italian Seasoning Mix

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the pizza crust packaging.
  2. Prepare the Dough:
    • If using Pillsbury Pizza Crust or similar, unroll the dough onto a flat surface. If using a frozen pizza crust, thaw it according to the package instructions.
  3. Assemble the Calzones:
    • Cut the dough into individual portions, depending on how many calzones you want to make.
    • Place a few slices of pepperoni and a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on one half of each portion of dough.
  4. Fold and Seal:
    • Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to press the edges firmly together to seal the calzones.
  5. Bake:
    • Transfer the assembled calzones to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
    • Melt butter in a small bowl and stir in garlic powder and Italian seasoning mix to taste.
    • Brush the tops of the calzones with the seasoned butter mixture.
  6. Bake:
    • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the calzones according to the instructions on the pizza crust packaging, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
  7. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Remove the calzones from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them hot with your favorite marinara sauce for dipping!

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Customize the Fillings: Feel free to get creative with the fillings for your calzones. Add your favorite pizza toppings such as cooked sausage, bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for a personalized touch.
  • Make Ahead: You can assemble the calzones ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This is great for meal prep or entertaining guests.
  • Freeze for Later: Calzones freeze well after baking. Once cooled, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store them in a freezer bag. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick and convenient meal.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

  • Keto-Friendly Option: Substitute the Pillsbury Pizza Crust or frozen pizza crust with a low-carb alternative such as a cauliflower crust or a fathead dough. Use low-carb pepperoni and cheese, and skip the butter and seasoning mix or use keto-friendly alternatives.
  • Low-Carb Adaptation: Opt for a thin layer of crust or use a low-carb tortilla or wrap as the base. Load up on protein-rich fillings like cooked chicken or turkey, and use a moderate amount of cheese to keep the carb count low.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use homemade pizza dough for the calzones? A: Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough works wonderfully for calzones. Just be sure to roll it out thinly and evenly to achieve the desired crust texture.

Q: How do I know when the calzones are done baking? A: The calzones are ready when they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can also tap the bottom of the calzones to check for a hollow sound, which indicates that they are fully baked.

Q: Can I add vegetables to the calzones? A: Yes, you can add any vegetables of your choice to the calzones. Just make sure to chop them finely and pre-cook them if necessary to ensure they are fully cooked by the time the calzones are done baking.

Q: Can I make mini calzones for appetizers? A: Absolutely! Simply use smaller portions of dough and filling to create bite-sized calzones perfect for appetizers or party snacks.

Treat yourself to the irresistible flavors of our Cheap Pizza Calzones – a budget-friendly twist on a classic favorite. With their crispy crust, gooey cheese, and savory pepperoni, these homemade calzones are sure to satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank. Whether enjoyed for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, these calzones are a delicious and convenient option that will leave everyone wanting more. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a taste of pizza paradise with our mouthwatering Cheap Pizza Calzones!