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Portable Pizza Perfection: Unpacking the Differences Between Calzones and Stromboli

When it comes to satisfying your pizza cravings on-the-go, two Italian-inspired options stand out: calzones and stromboli. While both are portable and delicious, they have distinct differences in terms of origin, shape, and ingredients.

Calzones: The Folded Pizza

Hailing from Naples, Italy, calzones are essentially a pizza folded in half and stuffed with cheese. Their signature half-moon shape makes them easy to pack and devour. Mozzarella, provolone, and ricotta are common fillings, with optional additions like tomatoes, onions, salami, and vegetables. Calzones can be baked or fried, offering a crispy exterior and gooey interior.

Stromboli: The Rolled Pizza

With roots in 1950s Philadelphia, stromboli is an Italian-American invention. This cylindrical treat features multiple layers of cheese and meat, rarely including tomato sauce. The dough is rolled out, filled with ingredients, and then rolled up like a cinnamon roll. After baking, the log-shaped cylinder is sliced, revealing a pinwheel pattern of meats, cheeses, and vegetables.

9 Recipes to Satisfy Your Portable Pizza Cravings

From smoked salmon to Italian sausage, and from easy stromboli to vegan delights, we’ve got you covered. Explore our collection of recipes to create the perfect portable pizza for your next meal or snack.

Smoked Salmon and Mozzarella Calzone

This unique calzone combination is a game-changer. Fresh Roma tomatoes and mozzarella come together with smoked salmon for a delicious, lunch-sized snack.

Italian Sausage Calzone

Elevate your calzone game with this sausage and cheese masterpiece. Ricotta, provolone, and parmesan cheese join forces with hot Italian sausage and pepperoncini for a flavorful treat.

Easy Stromboli

This straightforward recipe uses store-bought pizza dough and your choice of deli meat. Add some jalapeño for an extra kick!

Crescent Calzones

These bite-sized calzones are perfect for parties. Garlic powder, dried oregano, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese make them impossible to resist.

Mini Calzones

Italy’s answer to empanadas, these mini calzones can be made at the last minute with premade pie crusts and filled with your favorite meat and cheese combinations.

Chicken & Broccoli Rabe Stromboli

Homemade dough takes this stromboli to the next level. Fill it with garlic, oregano, crushed red chile flakes, mozzarella, sweet cherry peppers, and provolone for a memorable meal.

Smitten Kitchen Stromboli

This versatile recipe can be shaped into a traditional stromboli or adapted into a babka-shaped loaf. Fresh herbs like oregano and basil add a bright touch.

Vegan Stromboli

A perfect main course for vegetarians, this stromboli is packed with spinach, bell peppers, and a unique tomato sauce made with plum tomatoes, herbs, garlic, and spices.

Ham and Swiss Stromboli

Essentially a homemade Hot Pocket, this stromboli combines premade French loaf dough with ham, green onions, and bacon strips for added flavor.