Best Grilled Calzones: Easy Homemade Recipe with 5 Delicious Variations

Introduction

Grilled calzones bring together the rustic charm of wood-fired pizza and the satisfying convenience of a hand-held meal. This recipe walks you through creating beautifully blistered, golden calzones right on your grill, delivering flavors that rival your favorite pizzeria. Whether you're hosting a backyard cookout or enjoying a casual weeknight dinner, these grilled calzones are easy, impressive, and endlessly customizable. Below, you’ll find the essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, smart tips for success, and five delicious variations to try.

Ingredients

Dough and Assembly

• 1 pound pizza dough, divided into 4 portions
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Flour for dusting

Optional Fillings

• Pepperoni slices
• Cooked sausage
• Spinach
• Mushrooms
• Bell peppers
• Fresh basil

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Grill

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Lightly oil the cooking surface to prevent sticking.
3. Ensure a clean, even cooking area for consistent grilling.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. Lightly flour your work surface.
2. Roll each dough portion into an 8-inch circle.
3. Brush edges with a small amount of olive oil.

Step 3: Add the Fillings

1. Spread a few tablespoons of marinara on half of each dough circle.
2. Add mozzarella, ricotta, and chosen optional fillings.
3. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning.

Step 4: Fold and Seal

1. Fold dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape.
2. Crimp the edges tightly with your fingers.
3. Pierce the top once or twice to allow steam to escape.

Step 5: Grill the Calzones

1. Place calzones on the grill.
2. Cook 5–7 minutes per side or until golden and crisp.
3. Remove and let rest for 3 minutes before serving.

Tips

Grilling calzones is all about heat control and proper sealing. Keep the grill at medium-high heat to ensure the crust cooks evenly without burning. Avoid overfilling, as excess moisture can cause the dough to tear. Letting the calzones rest briefly after grilling helps the cheese set, making them easier to handle. If you’re new to grilling dough, start with smaller portions to build confidence. For extra flavor, brush the tops lightly with olive oil or garlic butter before grilling.

Variations

Grilled calzones are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for experimenting with different flavors. Whether you enjoy classic comfort combinations or adventurous fillings, you can tailor each calzone to your taste. Here are five variations that bring new personality and unique flair to your grilled creations.

• Classic Pepperoni and Mozzarella
• Spinach, Ricotta, and Mushroom
• BBQ Chicken with Red Onion and Cheddar
• Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions
• Caprese with Tomato, Basil, and Fresh Mozzarella

Best pairings

These grilled calzones pair wonderfully with bright, refreshing sides and beverages that complement their rich, cheesy interior. Serve them with a crisp salad, charred vegetables, or a simple antipasto platter for a complete meal. Light drinks such as sparkling water, lager, or chilled white wine enhance the flavors without overpowering them. For dipping, keep extra marinara or try pesto for a delicious twist.

Conclusion

Making grilled calzones at home is a simple way to elevate your outdoor cooking routine while enjoying restaurant-quality flavor. With just a few ingredients and a hot grill, you can create customizable, crowd-pleasing calzones perfect for any occasion. Feel free to experiment with fillings, pairings, and toppings to make each batch uniquely your own. Once you try these grilled calzones, they may quickly become a new backyard favorite.