Classic Meat & Cheese Calzone
A classic meat and cheese calzone is a folded, oven-baked Italian turnover made from pizza dough, typically filled with a savory blend of cured meats like pepperoni or salami and melted cheeses such as mozzarella and ricotta. Originating in Naples, Italy, it is essentially a portable, hand-held version of a pizza, sealed to create a delicious, self-contained meal.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is generally high in carbohydrates from the dough and rich in fat and protein from the generous cheese and meat fillings. A typical serving provides a good source of calcium and protein, with a calorie count that can range from 800 to over 1,200 calories depending on size and specific ingredients.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 850 kcal |
| Protein | 42 g |
| Carbs | 78 g |
| Fat | 38 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 1800 mg |
| Calcium | 450 mg |
| Iron | 6 mg |
| Potassium | 350 mg |
| Vitamin A | 300 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 10 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 1.5 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 400 mg |
| Selenium | 40 mcg |
Per 1 calzone (340 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, the calzone is celebrated as a brilliant example of Neapolitan culinary ingenuity, designed as a practical, portable meal for workers. Nutritionally, its enclosed structure allows the fillings to steam and meld together, creating a uniquely moist and flavorful interior compared to an open-faced pizza.
