Panzerotti - Mini Calzones
These mini fried hand pizzas are such a delicious appetizer! Stuff them with cheese, basil, and pepperoni, and dip them in marinara sauce.
Prep Time15 minutes mins
Cook Time12 minutes mins
Total Time27 minutes mins
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: appetizers, Calzones, panzerotti, pizza, pizza pockets
Servings: 6 Mini Calzones
Calories: 287kcal
- 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
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.
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.
Serving: 1 | Calories: 287kcal | Carbohydrates: 33g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 18mg | Sodium: 599mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g