Name: Air Fryer Calzones: 4 Crispy, Cheesy Delights to Savor
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 package Pizza Dough (Store-bought or homemade); 1 cup Pizza Sauce (Marinara or homemade sauce can work); 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella (Can substitute with provolone or cheddar); 1 cup Pepperoni (Substitute with deli meats or omit for vegetarian options); 2 tablespoons Garlic Butter (For brushing on tops after cooking); 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (For sprinkling on top)

Introduction

Air Fryer Calzones are a delightful twist on traditional Italian cuisine, offering a crispy exterior filled with melty goodness. These calzones are perfect for busy weeknights, as they can be prepared in just 15 minutes! Imagine biting into a warm calzone, filled with gooey cheese and savory pepperoni, all while enjoying the health benefits of using an air fryer. Let’s dive in and explore how to make these easy and delicious treats!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Calzones

There are countless reasons to adore these Air Fryer Calzones. First and foremost, they are incredibly quick to make, with a quick air fryer calzones recipe that only takes 15 minutes from start to finish. Secondly, the air fryer creates a crispy texture that rivals traditional baking, making for a satisfying bite. Additionally, these calzones are highly customizable; you can stuff them with your favorite fillings, whether that be pepperoni, vegetables, or cheese. Plus, they are a healthier alternative compared to deep-fried options, allowing you to indulge without the guilt. And let’s not forget, they are perfect for meal prep, making them an excellent choice for those looking to save time during the week. Finally, they pair wonderfully with marinara sauce for dipping!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Calzones

Gather these items:

1 package Pizza Dough (Store-bought or homemade)
1 cup Pizza Sauce (Marinara or homemade sauce can work)
2 cups Shredded Mozzarella (Can substitute with provolone or cheddar)
1 cup Pepperoni (Substitute with deli meats or omit for vegetarian options)
2 tablespoons Garlic Butter (For brushing on tops after cooking)
1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (For sprinkling on top)

How to Make Air Fryer Calzones Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Divide pizza dough into four equal pieces and roll each into a 6-inch diameter circle.
Step 3: Spread a tablespoon of pizza sauce on one half of each dough circle, leaving a half-inch border.
Step 4: Layer shredded mozzarella cheese and pepperoni on top of the sauce, adding more cheese if desired.
Step 5: Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and crimp the edges securely.
Step 6: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil and arrange calzones in a single layer.
Step 7: Air fry for 7-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.
Step 8: Let cool for a minute, then brush with garlic butter and sprinkle with Italian seasoning before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Calzones

Keep these in mind:

Make sure to crimp the edges tightly to prevent any filling from spilling out during cooking.
Experiment with different fillings; some popular options include spinach or ricotta for a vegetarian twist.
Consider using an air fryer calzone dough recipe that includes whole wheat for a healthier version.

Air Fryer Calzones: 4 Crispy, Cheesy Delights to Savor - Air Fryer Calzones - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Air Fryer Calzones

These delicious calzones can be served in various ways. Pair them with air fryer calzones with marinara sauce for a classic touch. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a fun twist, try serving them as air fryer pizza pockets with different sauces for dipping!

How to Store and Reheat Air Fryer Calzones

To store your leftover Air Fryer Calzones, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat calzones in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until warm and crispy. This method will help maintain their delicious texture!

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Calzones

What’s the secret to perfect Air Fryer Calzones?

The secret to perfect Air Fryer Calzones is ensuring that you roll out the dough evenly and crimp the edges tightly. This prevents the filling from leaking out while they cook. Additionally, air frying at the correct temperature is key to achieving a crispy texture.

Can I make Air Fryer Calzones ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the calzones ahead of time! Assemble them and place them in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, air fry them straight from the fridge, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Air Fryer Calzones?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure that the dough is not too thick, as this can result in uneven cooking. Also, don’t overfill the calzones, as this can cause them to burst open while cooking.

Variations of Air Fryer Calzones You Can Try

There are many tasty variations of Air Fryer Calzones to explore. For a healthier option, try adding veggies such as bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also create sweet calzones by filling them with chocolate or fruit fillings for dessert. Lastly, consider using a mix of different cheeses for a gooey, flavorful experience.