Not every new grocery item gets it right on the first try, and some shoppers say Sam's Club's calzones are proof that a second look can pay off.
The Member's Mark Calzones with Marinara Sauce debuted in February to a lukewarm reception, but recent reviews suggest they've improved.
What Shoppers Said at First
When the calzones launched, several reviewers on Sam's Club's website described them as underwhelming, with complaints about too much dough and not enough filling. Overall, they've held a mixed rating of around 3.5 out of 5 stars on the retailer's site.
What's Different Now
Recent reviewers say the calzones have a better balance of dough to filling, with plenty of pepperoni and gooey mozzarella. One popular Sam's Club reviewer raised their score from 7.5 to 9.5 out of 10 after trying the updated version, and other shoppers commented that they're now stuffed with meat and cheese. I couldn't find an official announcement from Sam's Club about a recipe change, so the improvement is based on shopper reports.
What's Inside
Each calzone is made with a seasoned dough dusted with Italian herbs and filled with mozzarella, marinara sauce, pepperoni, and sausage. They come with marinara for dipping. One reviewer said they'd like to see more Italian sausage to balance the pepperoni, but said it wasn't a dealbreaker.
The Price
The four-pack is listed at $14.39, or $6.54 per pound, and the calzones are prepared in-club daily. That makes them a budget-friendly dinner for a family of four or a meal-prep option for one person. Prices may vary by location.
How to Make Them
The calzones are ready to heat. You can reheat them in the oven or an air fryer, and the marinara cups are meant for dipping.
The Takeaway
If the earlier reviews turned you off, the latest reports say it may be worth another try. Reviews are still mixed overall, so if you're curious, start with one pack before you commit to stocking up.
