Dinner

Cheesy Italian Sausage and Pepperoni Calzones Recipe

Name: Cheesy Italian Sausage and Pepperoni Calzones Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz. Italian sausage, cooked into crumbles; ½ cup pepperoni, sliced; ½ cup chopped onion; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 1 cup sliced mushrooms; 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 lbs. pizza dough (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup pizza sauce; 1 egg; 2 tsp water

ByElara Stone February 6, 2026February 6, 2026

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Introduction

Calzones are a delicious, portable twist on traditional pizza, filled with savory ingredients and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a family meal or casual dinner, these pockets of flavor are sure to satisfy your pizza cravings with every bite.

The image shows a baked calzone that is cut in half to reveal a gooey layer of melted cheese pulling between the two pieces. The outside of the calzone has a golden-brown crust with some darker, toasted spots and small green herb flakes sprinkled on top. The calzone sits on crinkled parchment paper over a white marbled surface. To the top left is a white bowl filled with thick red marinara sauce, and to the bottom right is a white bowl containing chopped green herbs. The overall look is warm and inviting with a focus on the soft, cheesy interior and crispy outside. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz. Italian sausage, cooked into crumbles
2 lbs. pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup pizza sauce
½ cup pepperoni
½ cup chopped onion
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1½ cups shredded mozzarella
1 egg + 2 tsp water (for the egg wash)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Step 2: Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces and shape each into a ball.
Step 3: On a floured surface, roll out each dough ball into a flat circle.
Step 4: Spoon pizza sauce onto half of each dough circle. Layer with Italian sausage, pepperoni, chopped onion, green bell pepper, mushrooms, and shredded mozzarella.
Step 5: Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the dough to moisten.
Step 6: Fold the dough over the fillings to form a half-moon shape. Press and pinch the edges tightly to seal.
Step 7: Use a sharp knife to cut two small slits on top of each calzone to allow steam to escape.
Step 8: Whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush it evenly over the tops of the calzones.
Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the calzones are golden brown on top.

Tips & Variations

Try adding fresh basil or oregano to the filling for extra flavor.
Swap Italian sausage for ground beef or chicken for a different protein option.
Make mini calzones using smaller portions of dough for snack-sized treats.
Use a fork to crimp the edges of the dough for a decorative touch and a stronger seal.

Storage

Store any leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to maintain a crispy crust. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the dough soggy.

How to Serve

A calzone is cut in half to show its inside layers, stacked on top of each other on a piece of light brown parchment paper. The top layer of bread is golden brown with a slightly crisp texture, while the bottom bread layer is light beige and soft. Inside the calzone, there is a thick red tomato sauce layer on top of melted white cheese, followed by a middle layer of cooked mushroom slices and small bits of onion, and more melted cheese just beneath the bread. Behind the calzone halves, a white bowl filled with more red tomato sauce is partly visible, set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare calzones ahead of time and bake later?

Yes, you can assemble the calzones and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. Bring them to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.