What if I told you everything you love about a juicy cheeseburger—savory beef, gooey cheddar, tangy pickles, even the zing of ketchup—could be neatly tucked into a golden, handheld pocket? That’s exactly what you get with Cheeseburger Calzones. Think classic burger flavors, but with pillowy pizza dough instead of a bun—a true crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Burger Night, Upgraded: All the iconic flavors of a cheeseburger, but with delightfully crisp, chewy dough for a playful twist.
- Ultimate Weeknight Win: Quick to prep and bake, these calzones are a total lifesaver for busy evenings or when you crave serious comfort food.
- Family-Friendly & Customizable: Everyone can fill their own calzone just how they like, making dinnertime interactive and fun.
- Perfect Party Food: Cheeseburger Calzones are endlessly dippable and even better shared, so they’re ideal for game days or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients each play a starring role in making your Cheeseburger Calzones unforgettable. From melty cheddar to tangy pickles, every component brings texture and big, bold flavor to every bite.
- Ground Beef: The hearty, savory base of that classic cheeseburger taste—choose lean beef for less grease, or go for 80/20 if you like it extra juicy.
- Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These pantry staples instantly boost that burger flavor, no chopping required.
- Hamburger Pickles: Slices of briny, tangy pickles add crunch and signature cheeseburger zing.
- Thinly Sliced Tomato: Provides juiciness and brightness, just like the perfect burger stack.
- Cheddar Cheese (grated): Meltability and sharp flavor are key here—freshly grated always gives the best melt.
- Mayonnaise: A thin layer brushed onto the dough for extra moisture and richness (trust me, it’s a game changer!).
- Store-bought Round Pizza Dough: Convenient, reliable, and ready to wrap up all your fillings. Use your favorite brand or even homemade dough.
- Coarse Salt: Just a sprinkle before baking boosts flavor and adds a hint of crunch.
- Egg (lightly beaten): For a golden, glossy finish when brushed on top.
- Everything Bagel Seasoning: This topping gives a pop of flavor and irresistible crunch to your calzone crust.
- Ketchup (for dipping): The classic burger pairing, ready for dunking your warm, cheesy calzones.
Variations
One of my favorite things about Cheeseburger Calzones is how easily you can tweak them based on your mood, what’s in your fridge, or who’s at the dinner table. Here are some delicious ways to mix things up!
- Bacon Cheeseburger Calzones: Add cooked, crumbled bacon inside for smoky, savory bliss in every bite.
- Spicy Kick: Layer in a few pickled jalapeños or a squirt of hot sauce for a little heat.
- Veggie-Loaded: Swap ground beef for sautéed mushrooms and peppers, or toss in some baby spinach for extra greens.
- Swap the Cheese: Try pepper jack, Swiss, or provolone for a totally new flavor profile (or combine cheeses for extra gooeyness).
How to Make Cheeseburger Calzones
Step 1: Cook the Beef Filling
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. In a wide skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until it’s just cooked through. Sprinkle in the garlic and onion powders with a good pinch of salt, letting everything sizzle for another minute as the kitchen fills with the best burger aromas.
Step 2: Prep Your Dough & Fillings
Roll out the round pizza dough on a lightly floured surface, then divide it into four equal pieces. Brush each piece with a thin smear of mayo (don’t skip this—it creates a creamy barrier!), then top with cooked beef, a few tomato slices, some pickles, and a generous handful of cheddar cheese.
Step 3: Shape & Seal the Calzones
Roll each dough portion over its fillings, then crimp or pinch the edges to seal in all that savory goodness. You want a tight seal to keep the cheese from escaping—think of it like tucking your favorite burger into a cozy doughy blanket!
Step 4: Finish & Bake
Arrange the calzones on a rimmed baking sheet. Brush each with a light egg wash for gorgeous shine, then shower with Everything Bagel seasoning and a sprinkle of coarse salt. Bake for about 20 minutes, until puffy and deeply golden, then let cool for just a few minutes (the cheese will be molten!).
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Serve your Cheeseburger Calzones fresh from the oven with plenty of ketchup—or whatever dunking sauce makes you smile. Everyone will love breaking into that golden crust and finding their favorite cheeseburger flavors inside!
Pro Tips for Making Cheeseburger Calzones
- Mayo Barrier Magic: Brushing mayonnaise on the dough keeps moisture in and prevents a soggy crust—don’t skip this step!
- Cheese Placement: Sprinkle cheese directly over the beef so it melts deliciously throughout the filling.
- Sealing Success: Pinch or crimp the dough edges tightly, and even twist or fold them to really lock in that cheesy filling.
- Dough Thickness: If using thicker pizza dough, let it come to room temperature to make rolling and stretching even easier.
How to Serve Cheeseburger Calzones
Garnishes
Give your Cheeseburger Calzones a final flourish by sprinkling them with a bit more Everything Bagel seasoning or a few sesame seeds for that burger “bun” nod. For extra color, add a little chopped parsley or sliced green onions just before serving.
Side Dishes
Pair these calzones with classic fries, crispy tater tots, or a fresh salad to balance the richness. A side of coleslaw or crunchy pickles echoes those burger-shop vibes and adds a bright contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut calzones into halves or quarters for easy sharing and gorgeous cross-sections that show off the colorful fillings. Arrange them on a platter with a trio of sauces—ketchup, mustard, and aioli—for a playful, build-your-own “burger bar” at your next party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftover Cheeseburger Calzones completely, then wrap them in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for up to three days and make a satisfying next-day lunch or snack.
Freezing
These calzones freeze beautifully! Let them cool, wrap tightly in plastic wrap then foil, and freeze for up to two months. Reheat straight from the freezer or thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
For the crispiest crust, reheat calzones in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes. Microwaving works in a pinch, but the dough won’t be as snappy—if you have time, use the oven or even an air fryer to restore that fresh-baked texture.
FAQs
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Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work just as well. Season the filling generously, as leaner meats can use a little extra flavor boost. You might want to drizzle in a bit of olive oil for moisture, too.
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What’s the best way to keep my Cheeseburger Calzones from getting soggy?
Brushing mayo on the inside of the dough forms a barrier that helps keep moisture out, and letting any cooked ingredients cool slightly before filling also prevents sogginess. Don’t overload with juicy tomatoes or pickles—if in doubt, use less and serve extra on the side.
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Can I make these Cheeseburger Calzones ahead for a party?
Yes! Assemble the calzones up to a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add the egg wash and bagel seasoning right before baking for the best texture and color.
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What other sauces go well for dipping besides ketchup?
Try dipping your Cheeseburger Calzones in spicy mustard, garlic aioli, barbecued sauce, or even ranch dressing for a tasty twist. Mixing sriracha with mayo also makes an easy, zippy dip!
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a cozy night in or want to impress your family with something new, Cheeseburger Calzones are guaranteed to bring big smiles (and maybe a little nostalgia). Give them a try, and see why this playful mashup just might become your new favorite comfort food!
Print
Cheeseburger Calzones Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 calzones
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Cheeseburger Calzones are a fun twist on the classic cheeseburger, with all the flavors you love wrapped in a delicious pizza dough pocket. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal that the whole family will enjoy!
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 cup hamburger pickles
- Thinly sliced tomato
- 8 oz cheddar cheese, grated
- 2-4 Tbs. mayonnaise
For the Calzones:
- Store-bought round pizza dough
- Coarse salt
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- Everything bagel seasoning
- Ketchup, for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350.
- Roll out the pizza dough onto a lightly floured work surface
- Place them on a rimmed baking sheet and brush with the egg wash
- Serve with any condiments you dig!
- Makes four calzones.
Heat a wide skillet to a medium high heat. Add the ground beef and brown all over, using a wooden spoon. Add a tsp of oil if needed. Add in the garlic and onion powders, along with a pinch of salt. Cook another minute.
Cut the dough into four equal parts, then brush with mayo. Top with the cooked beef, tomato pieces, a few pickles, and a sprinkling of cheese. Roll the dough over itself and pinch the sides together, creating a calzone.
Along with a sprinkling of the Everything Bagel seasoning. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and beautiful.
Notes
- You can customize the fillings to suit your taste preferences.
- Feel free to add or remove any toppings you like.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 calzone
- Calories: Approximately 580
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 840mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
