As the sun shines brightly and the excitement of game day fills the air, nothing brings together friends and family quite like a batch of homemade Touchdown Calzones. Picture this: the golden crust emerging from the oven, its warm fragrance wafting through the house, inviting everyone to gather around. These savory pockets are not just a feast for the palate, but a delightful way to customize your flavors—whether you crave oozy cheese and zesty pepperoni, creamy chicken with fresh broccoli, or a veggie-loaded twist bursting with seasonal produce. Plus, they come together in just 40 minutes, making them the ultimate crowd-pleaser that feels completely homemade. Let’s dive into this irresistible Italian treat and elevate your game-day spread!
Why are Touchdown Calzones the Best Snack?
Quick to make: In just 40 minutes, you can serve up these delightful pockets of goodness that are sure to impress.
Customizable flavors: Whether you prefer classic pepperoni, creamy chicken, or a veggie-packed option, the choices are endless!
Crowd-pleaser: Their golden crust and oozy filling are always a hit, making them perfect for any gathering.
Easy to prepare: Simply roll, fill, and bake—no fuss, just fun!
Perfect for dipping: Pair with marinara or a fresh salad for an extra flavor boost. Cooking for game day? Check out our tips on serving options for a full experience!
Touchdown Calzones Ingredients
For the Dough
- 16 oz pizza dough – This forms the base structure for calzones; you can use store-bought for convenience or make your own from scratch.
For the Filling
- 1 cup ricotta cheese – Provides a creamy texture; substitute with cream cheese blended with milk if needed.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping) – Adds that delightful gooeyness, melting beautifully throughout the filling.
- 1/2 cup cooked sausage (or turkey/chicken) – Brings a savory kick; feel free to swap in pepperoni or roasted veggies for a vegetarian option.
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce – Enhances flavor and moisture, adding a burst of Italian goodness with each bite.
- 1/4 cup chopped veggies (like spinach or mushrooms) – Incorporate nutritional benefits and additional flavor; seasonal vegetables work great.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – This blend of herbs boosts the overall taste profile of your Touchdown Calzones.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder – Elevates savory notes with its aromatic essence.
For Brushing and Finishing
- 1 tbsp olive oil – Brush this on before baking for a rich, golden finish.
- Egg wash (optional) – An egg wash gives a beautiful, golden color when baked.
These Touchdown Calzones are not just easy to prepare; they’re also wonderfully customizable for any taste preference. Get ready to wow your friends and family with this delicious game-day treat!
How to Make Touchdown Calzones
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Prepare Dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface, shaping it into a rectangle that’s about 1/4 inch thick, ready for filling.
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Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, cooked sausage, chopped veggies, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder until well blended, creating a creamy and savory mixture.
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Assemble Calzones: Spoon the filling onto one half of the rolled-out dough, making sure to leave a little space around the edges for sealing.
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Seal: Carefully fold the dough over the filling, pressing the edges firmly to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch, then brush the tops with olive oil.
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Bake: Arrange the calzones on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-22 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
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Cool: Let the calzones cool for a few minutes to set, then slice them open to reveal that cheesy filling. Serve warm to enjoy the best flavors!
Optional: Serve with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Touchdown Calzones
Fridge: Store leftover Touchdown Calzones in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to maintain their texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked calzones on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat calzones in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes or use an air fryer for a crispy result. Avoid microwave reheating to prevent sogginess.
Wrapping: For fridge or freezer storage, wrap each calzone individually in plastic wrap before placing them in containers or bags for maximum freshness.
Touchdown Calzones Variations
Feel free to make these delightful calzones your own with just a few simple ingredient swaps or additions!
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Dairy-Free: Use cashew cheese or a plant-based mozzarella to accommodate dairy-free diets while keeping that creamy texture.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for those who love a little heat in their food. The extra kick will make each bite even more thrilling!
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Bacon Lover’s Delight: Incorporate crispy bacon bits into your filling for a smoky flavor that elevates the traditional calzone. This adds a wonderful crunch alongside the creamy cheese.
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Mediterranean Twist: Mix in feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a vibrant and flavorful twist. This variation brightens up the classic recipe with bold Mediterranean flavors.
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Sweet Treat: For a dessert version, swap ricotta for sweetened cream cheese and fill with chocolate chips and sliced strawberries. A dusting of powdered sugar makes these irresistible!
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Whole Wheat Dough: Choose whole wheat pizza dough for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. It adds a nutty taste and adds fiber, making your meal more nutritious.
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Loaded Veggie: Amp up the veggie content by adding finely chopped zucchini, bell peppers, or roasted sweet potatoes. They not only add nutrition but also contribute to a heartier filling.
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Breakfast Calzones: Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and diced veggies or sausage for a savory breakfast option that’s perfect any time of day. These calzones are a fabulous way to start your morning off right!
What to Serve with Touchdown Calzones?
These savory pockets of goodness are the perfect centerpiece for your game day feast. Let’s create a mouthwatering spread that will keep everyone coming back for more!
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Garlicky Breadsticks: Serve warm, buttery breadsticks with a hint of garlic to complement the cheesy filling. They’re perfect for dipping into marinara!
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Crisp Garden Salad: A fresh salad with vibrant greens adds a light, crunchy balance to the rich calzones. Toss in cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette.
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Roasted Veggie Platter: Arrange delicious roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots around the calzones for a colorful and nutritious addition.
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Italian Bruschetta: Crisp toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella brings a refreshing, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the calzones.
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Marinara Sauce: Serve extra marinara for dipping! This tomato sauce not only enhances the flavors of the calzones but also offers that classic Italian touch.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing sparkling lemonade with a hint of mint is a delightful beverage that cuts through the richness of the calzones.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note with warm chocolate chip cookies; they’re a timeless treat that everyone loves!
Bringing these delicious side dishes together perfectly complements the comforting flavors of your Touchdown Calzones, creating a memorable taste experience!
Expert Tips for Touchdown Calzones
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Seal Carefully: Ensure that you press the edges firmly to avoid any leaks during baking. A bit of egg wash can help create a perfect seal.
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Avoid Overfilling: Filling them too much can lead to bursting calzones. Spoon just enough to keep the fillings contained without overflowing.
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Prep Ahead: Make the dough and filling the day before to save time on game day. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.
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Freezing Options: Assemble uncooked calzones and freeze them. Bake straight from frozen, just adjusting the baking time.
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Dough Thickness: Roll your pizza dough to about 1/4 inch thick for the perfect balance of crispy outside and chewy inside.
Make Ahead Options
These Touchdown Calzones are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can mix the filling (ricotta, mozzarella, sausage, and veggies) up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prepare and roll out the pizza dough the day before; just wrap it tightly and refrigerate to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to bake, assemble the calzones by spooning the filling onto the dough and sealing the edges firmly. Simply brush them with olive oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-22 minutes until golden brown. Preparing your components ahead of time ensures that these game day treats are just as delicious with minimal effort!
Touchdown Calzones Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose pizza dough?
Absolutely! When selecting pizza dough for your Touchdown Calzones, look for a smooth, elastic texture. If you prefer homemade, let it rise until doubled in size; store-bought dough should have fresh expiration dates. For a unique twist, try whole wheat dough or gluten-free options if dietary needs arise.
How should I store leftover Touchdown Calzones?
You can store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I often let them cool completely before sealing to preserve their crispy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes for a delightful taste revival!
Can I freeze unbaked Touchdown Calzones?
Absolutely! To freeze them, first assemble your calzones up to the baking step. Place them on a baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch, and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, you can pop them in the oven straight from the freezer—just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time!
What should I do if my calzones are bursting during baking?
Very often, this happens due to overfilling. Make sure to fill your calzones generously but not excessively—leave about half an inch of dough around the edges for proper sealing. If they do burst, don’t worry! Just enjoy the cheesy goodness that oozes out; it’ll still be delicious.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
When making Touchdown Calzones, consider common allergens like dairy and gluten. You can substitute ricotta with blended silken tofu for a dairy-free option, and use gluten-free dough to make them accessible for those with gluten sensitivities. Always double-check for cross-contamination if cooking for people with food allergies.
How can I make calzones suitable for my pet?
Absolutely! If you’d like a pet-friendly version of your Touchdown Calzones, simply omit any spicy ingredients or cheese. Instead, use cooked chicken or ground turkey with plain veggies like carrots or peas. Just ensure that you keep their treats separate from the ones for your guests to avoid any tummy troubles!
Touchdown Calzones: Ultimate Game Day Treats You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface, shaping it into a rectangle that's about 1/4 inch thick, ready for filling.
- In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, cooked sausage, chopped veggies, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder until well blended.
- Spoon the filling onto one half of the rolled-out dough, making sure to leave a little space around the edges for sealing.
- Carefully fold the dough over the filling, pressing the edges firmly to seal. Brush the tops with olive oil.
- Arrange the calzones on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-22 minutes until golden brown.
- Let the calzones cool for a few minutes, then slice them open to reveal the cheesy filling. Serve warm.