Cheeseburger Calzones Recipe

Cheeseburger Calzones are the ultimate mash-up you didn’t know you were missing! Imagine everything you love about a classic cheeseburger—all that juicy beef, gooey cheddar, tangy pickles, and a swipe of creamy mayo—baked up in a golden, handheld pizza dough pocket. Whether you’re serving them for a cozy weeknight dinner or as crowd-pleasing party fare, these calzones are pure comfort and totally irresistible.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts of Cheeseburger Calzones is just how straightforward (yet genius!) the ingredient list is. Each one brings those classic burger flavors and helps create the perfect crispy-yet-cheesy, craveable handheld meal.

• Ground beef: The heart of any burger—choose 85% lean for the perfect juicy-crisp bite inside your calzone.
• Garlic powder & onion powder: Just a sprinkle of each layers in that classic, irresistible burger flavor without any chopping required.
• Hamburger pickles: These deliver tang and crunch in every bite. Cut them thinly so they’re evenly distributed.
• Thinly sliced tomato: Adds moisture, freshness, and a pop of color—leave the slices paper-thin for easy folding.
• Cheddar cheese, grated: Meltiness to the max—a sharp cheddar really stands out amid the other fillings.
• Mayonnaise: Brushed onto the dough so you get that secretly rich, ultra-savory note inside each calzone.
• Store-bought round pizza dough: A total time-saver! Choose a medium-thick dough for the perfect calzone exterior, or grab a bistro-style dough like I used.
• Coarse salt: A sprinkle on the crust for that classic, craveable finish.
• Egg, lightly beaten: Makes the top beautifully glossy and golden, and helps the everything bagel seasoning stick.
• Everything bagel seasoning: The surprise topping that turns the crust into something extra-special—don’t skip it!
• Ketchup: The essential dipper for the full cheeseburger experience.

Variations

Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through these Cheeseburger Calzones! You can easily put your own spin on them depending on what you like, what you have on hand, or who’s coming to the table.

• Bacon Explosion: Add crispy bacon crumbles with the beef for a smoky, savory twist no one can resist.
• Veggie Burger Calzones: Swap in your favorite plant-based ground “beef” for a completely vegetarian (but still oh-so-hearty!) version.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in a handful of diced pickled jalapeños or a dab of sriracha to the filling before baking for some heat.
• Cheese Lovers: Try swapping some of the cheddar for pepper jack, mozzarella, or Swiss to mix up the flavor and gooeyness.

How to Make Cheeseburger Calzones

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F to get your kitchen nice and toasty. Then grab a large skillet, heat it over medium-high, and brown the ground beef. Don’t stir too much—let a little crust form for extra flavor! Sprinkle in the garlic and onion powders, salt, and cook for another minute. If things look a bit dry, a splash of oil works wonders.

Step 2: Prep the Dough and Fillings

Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the pizza dough until it’s about ¼-inch thick. Divide into four equal portions for individual calzones. Gather your fixings—cheese, pickles, tomatoes, and mayo—for speedy assembly.

Step 3: Fill, Fold, and Seal

Brush each dough round with a thin layer of mayo (trust me: this step is magic). Top with a generous scoop of seasoned beef, then scatter on the tomato slices, a few pickles, and plenty of cheddar. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon, then gently pinch and tuck the edges to seal in all the awesome fillings.

Step 4: Top and Bake

Transfer the calzones to a rimmed baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg for that shiny, bakery-style finish, then sprinkle with coarse salt and everything bagel seasoning for big flavor and crunch. Bake for 20 minutes, or until puffed up and gloriously golden.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

As soon as they’re out of the oven, let the Cheeseburger Calzones cool just a couple of minutes—they’ll be hot inside! Serve with ketchup (or whatever your condiment-loving heart desires) and let everyone dig in.

How to Serve Cheeseburger Calzones

Garnishes

For a finishing touch that really pops, try scattering chopped fresh parsley or chives over the hot calzones right before serving—it adds a hint of color and a touch of fresh flavor. A sprinkle of extra everything bagel seasoning works wonders on each calzone, and of course, a generous swirl of ketchup (or even a zigzag of your favorite burger sauce) for dipping is a must!

Side Dishes

Pair Cheeseburger Calzones with a crisp green salad tossed in a zippy vinaigrette, or go full diner mode and add homemade fries or sweet potato wedges. Grilled corn on the cob or a heap of simple coleslaw also make for summery, satisfying partners to your calzones.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the calzones “party-style” on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces—think ketchup, mustard, honey mustard, ranch, or sriracha mayo. For a fun twist, slice them in half before serving so everyone can admire the gooey, melty filling inside. Perfect for sharing with friends and family!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If there are any calzones left (good luck with that!), let them cool completely before wrapping them tightly in foil or transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and enjoy quick, satisfying lunches all week long.

Freezing

These Cheeseburger Calzones freeze beautifully. Once baked and cooled, individually wrap each calzone tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge or heat straight from frozen for a little longer in the oven.

Reheating

For best results (and that delicious crisp crust!), reheat calzones in a 350°F oven for about 10–15 minutes. If you’re short on time, a minute or two in the microwave makes them piping hot, though the crust won’t be quite as crisp.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

It’s almost impossible not to fall for Cheeseburger Calzones—they’re nostalgic, delicious, and outrageously satisfying. Grab a little dough, your favorite fillings, and give them a try; you might just discover your new family favorite! Don’t forget to share your creations and spread the cheesy, burger-filled love.

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