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Panzerotti - Mini Calzones

Allison Ruth
These mini fried hand pizzas are such a delicious appetizer! Stuff them with cheese, basil, and pepperoni, and dip them in marinara sauce.
5 from 6 votes
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Course Appetizers
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 Mini Calzones
Calories 287 kcal

Ingredients
 

  • canola or avocado oil for frying
  • pizza dough like Pillsbury, 13.8 oz. can
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce plus more for dipping
  • 3/4 cup freshly shredded mozzarella see note
  • 1/3 cup mini pepperoni
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
  • Italian seasoning for topping

Instructions
 

  • Heat the canola oil (about 4 cups) over medium heat in a large, heavy-bottomed pan. Use a thermometer to keep the temperature at 375 degrees Fahrenheit, or check frequently with an instant-read thermometer. If the oil is too hot, the dough will cook before the cheese can melt.
  • While the oil is heating, roll out the dough onto a large cutting board. Roll over it once or twice with a rolling pin to stretch it into an even rectangle and flatten the edges. Cut the dough into six 5-inch circles (trace a bowl or lid with a knife to make even cuts).
  • Spread a tablespoon of marinara sauce on each round of dough, leaving the edges free of sauce. Sprinkle two tablespoons of grated mozzarella onto half of the round. Top with pepperoni and a sprinkle of fresh basil. Fold the dough in half and press the edges firmly together to create a seal.
  • Using a slotted spoon, gently place one panzerotti into the hot oil. Cook until golden brown, about 1 minute on each side. Cook 1 or 2 at a time so they don't overcrowd the pan. When you remove each pizza from the oil, place it on a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Serve right away with marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

Note: Pre-shredded Mozzarella is treated with an anti-caking agent that makes it harder to melt.
See the post for more tips and tricks.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 287kcalCarbohydrates: 33gProtein: 10gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 18mgSodium: 599mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3g
Nutrition calculation is an estimation only. If you need nutritional calculations for medical reasons, please use a source that you trust.
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