Name: Mini Antipasto Calzones
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade); 4 ounces salami, chopped; 4 ounces pepperoni, chopped; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup ricotta cheese; ½ cup roasted red peppers, diced; ¼ cup black olives, chopped; ¼ cup artichoke hearts, diced; ½ tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese; Marinara sauce or pesto for dipping

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

If you’re searching for the perfect recipe to impress guests, satisfy picky eaters, or create a delicious meal that’s quick and easy, Mini Antipasto Calzones are your answer. These golden, crispy bites filled with savory Italian meats, gooey cheeses, and vibrant vegetables are a delightful spin on a classic antipasto platter. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or meal prepping, these calzones bring big flavor in a small, handheld package.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to the kitchen, this recipe is simple, fun, and endlessly customizable. Plus, these calzones are versatile enough to pair with various sides and dips, making them a go-to choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions and minimal prep, these calzones are beginner-friendly.
Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Perfectly Portable: Great for lunchboxes, picnics, or on-the-go snacking.
Freezer-Friendly: Make them ahead and freeze them for quick meals later.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: A medley of Italian-inspired ingredients that everyone loves.

Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 1 calzone
Calories: 200
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Ingredients and Substitutions

For the Dough

1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)

For the Filling

4 ounces salami, chopped
4 ounces pepperoni, chopped
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup ricotta cheese
½ cup roasted red peppers, diced
¼ cup black olives, chopped
¼ cup artichoke hearts, diced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder

For Assembly

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

For Serving

Marinara sauce or pesto for dipping

Substitution Ideas:

Cheese: Swap ricotta for cream cheese or feta for a tangy twist.
Meats: Replace salami and pepperoni with turkey or vegetarian deli slices.
Vegetables: Use sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Mini Antipasto Calzones (Step-by-Step)

1. Prep Your Workspace

Lightly flour your surface to prevent sticking. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Roll and Cut the Dough

Roll out the pizza dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Cut into even squares, about 4×4 inches each.

3. Mix and Fill

In a large bowl, combine the salami, pepperoni, mozzarella, ricotta, roasted red peppers, olives, artichoke hearts, oregano, and garlic powder.
Place a small spoonful of filling in the centre of each dough square.

4. Seal the Edges

Fold the dough over to create a triangle or rectangle. Press the edges with a fork to seal tightly.

5. Apply Egg Wash

Brush each calzone with beaten egg and sprinkle with grated Parmesan for a golden, crispy finish.

6. Bake to Perfection

Arrange the calzones on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Expert Tips for Success

Chill the Dough: Slightly chilled dough is easier to handle.
Don’t Overfill: Avoid overstuffing to prevent the calzones from bursting.
Use a Fork: Pressing edges with a fork ensures a tight seal.
Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on the calzones as they bake quickly.
Cool Before Serving: Let them rest for a few minutes to prevent burns and allow the flavors to meld.

Variations and Customizations

Vegetarian: Omit the meats and load up on veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pizza dough to accommodate dietary needs.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy twist.
Extra Cheese: Incorporate Parmesan or Asiago for more cheesy goodness.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

To Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To Freeze: Wrap each calzone individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
To Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these Mini Antipasto Calzones with:
- Dipping Sauces: Marinara, pesto, or garlic aioli.
- Side Salads: A crisp Caesar salad or arugula with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Soups: Tomato basil or minestrone complement the flavors beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use puff pastry instead of pizza dough?
A: Yes, puff pastry creates a flakier texture and works beautifully.

Q: Can I make these calzones in an air fryer?
A: Definitely! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q: How do I keep the calzones from bursting?
A: Avoid overfilling and ensure the edges are tightly sealed with a fork.

Q: Can I prepare these calzones ahead of time?
A: Yes, assemble them ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.

If you love these Mini Antipasto Calzones, you’ll enjoy:

Stuffed Garlic Knots
Spinach and Ricotta Rolls
Homemade Pizza Bites

Conclusion

Mini Antipasto Calzones are a delicious, crowd-pleasing treat that combines classic Italian flavors in a portable, bite-sized package. Whether you’re hosting a party, packing lunch, or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these calzones are sure to impress. With their crispy exterior, gooey filling, and endless customization options, they’ll quickly become a family favorite. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Kartoffelklöße (German Potato Dumplings): A Classic Comfort Food with a German Twist