Spooky Intestine Calzone
1. Introduction
Halloween is the perfect excuse to get creative — and a little creepy — in the kitchen! This Intestine Calzone is a show-stopping savory treat that will have your guests both amazed and slightly spooked.
Picture this: a flaky, golden-brown crust shaped like twisted human intestines, oozing with red marinara “blood” and packed with gooey cheese, flavorful meats, and fresh herbs. It’s a terrifyingly tasty illusion perfect for Halloween parties, horror-themed movie nights, or even a haunted dinner table.
Unlike most Halloween treats that lean sweet, this one delivers savory satisfaction — and it’s surprisingly easy to make using simple pizza dough and everyday fillings. The trick is in the shaping and the sauce placement, which gives that uncanny, realistic effect.
2. Ingredients Breakdown
For the Dough (or use store-bought pizza dough):
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp instant yeast
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup warm water
For the Filling:
- 1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for topping “blood”)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup ricotta cheese (optional for creaminess)
- 1 cup cooked Italian sausage or ground beef (seasoned)
- ½ cup chopped pepperoni (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
For Assembly:
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Extra marinara sauce for “ooze” effect
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
- Add olive oil and warm water; mix until dough forms.
- Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth.
- Cover and let rise for 1 hour, until doubled in size. (Skip if using pre-made dough.)
Step 2: Make the Filling
- Cook your sausage or ground beef in a skillet until browned; drain excess fat.
- Mix cooked meat with oregano, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and 1 cup marinara sauce.
- Let cool slightly before assembling to avoid making the dough soggy.
Step 3: Shape the “Intestine” Calzone
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll dough into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches).
- Spoon filling down the center lengthwise, alternating meat mixture, ricotta (if using), and mozzarella.
- Roll the dough around the filling like a jelly roll, sealing the edges.
- Twist and arrange the roll into a loopy, intestine-like shape — avoid perfect symmetry for realism.
- Brush with egg wash for a golden finish.
Step 4: Bake & Add the “Blood”
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from oven and immediately spoon extra warm marinara over certain parts so it “oozes.”
- Serve hot for maximum spooky effect.
4. Tips & Variations
- For a creepier look: Add streaks of beet juice to the marinara for darker “blood.”
- Vegetarian option: Swap meat for spinach, mushrooms, and ricotta.
- Extra cheesy: Use provolone or cheddar for a more dramatic cheese pull.
5. Serving Suggestions
- Serve on a black or dark wooden board for a spooky presentation.
- Pair with a side of “blood dipping sauce” (marinara in a small cauldron-style bowl).
- Place a fake knife next to it for dramatic flair.
6. Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to keep crust crisp.
7. Recipe Notes
- Dough can be prepared 24 hours in advance and refrigerated.
- You can make mini “intestine” rolls for individual servings.
8. Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 8 slices)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 |
| Protein | 14g |
| Carbs | 32g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Sodium | 720mg |
9. Quick Recipe Card
Intestine Calzone – Golden flaky crust shaped like spooky intestines, filled with cheesy marinara and savory meat. Perfect for Halloween!
Prep Time: 20 min | Cook Time: 30 min | Total: 50 min | Servings: 8
Ingredients: Pizza dough, marinara, mozzarella, ricotta, cooked sausage, oregano, garlic powder, egg wash.
Instructions:
- Make or roll out dough.
- Prepare filling with meat, cheese, and sauce.
- Roll, twist, and shape like intestines.
- Brush with egg wash and bake 25–30 min.
- Add marinara “blood” and serve hot.