Golden brown air fryer calzones stuffed with cheese and pepperoni, served on a plate.

Air Fryer Calzones – Ready in 30 Minutes

Why You’ll Love This Dish

Air Fryer Calzones are not just any pizza; they represent a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that bring comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, these calzones offer a creative twist on traditional pizza rolls. They’re easy to make, customizable, and an absolute hit among kids and adults alike. Plus, air frying makes them lighter and crispier without sacrificing flavor!

Step-by-Step Overview

Making Air Fryer Calzones is simple when you follow these steps. You’ll start by mixing together delicious fillings, rolling out your pizza dough, and then filling and sealing those delectable pockets before air frying them to perfection.

What You’ll Need

To create these delicious calzones, you’ll need:

  • 1 package of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup cooked meats (pepperoni, sausage, or chicken), diced
  • 1 cup fresh spinach or arugula, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • Marinara sauce (for dipping)

Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on your family’s favorites or dietary needs!

Directions to Follow

  1. Bring the Dough to Room Temperature: If you’re using store-bought pizza dough, let it come to room temperature according to package instructions. For homemade dough, ensure it is rolled out into a thin sheet.
  2. Mix Fillings: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, cooked meats, spinach, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
  3. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large circle, about ¼ inch thick.
  4. Cut the Dough: Use a pizza cutter or knife to cut the dough into large circles, about 6-8 inches in diameter.
  5. Fill the Calzones: Place a generous scoop of the cheese and meat mixture on one half of each dough circle, leaving enough space at the edges to seal.
  6. Fold and Seal: Fold the half without filling over the filled half. Pinch the edges tightly to seal, or use a fork to crimp the edges.
  7. Prepare for Air Frying: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the calzones with beaten egg for a golden finish.
  8. Air Fry the Calzones: Place the calzones in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to cook them in batches. Air fry for 10-15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  9. Check for Doneness: Ensure that the filling is bubbly and the dough is cooked. If needed, add a couple of extra minutes.
  10. Serve: Allow the calzones to cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed right out of the air fryer.

Air Fryer Calzones: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for 4 Easy Servings

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve your Air Fryer Calzones with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Pair them with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. They’re also great as appetizers at gatherings or parties.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store any leftover calzones, let them cool completely and place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their crispy texture.

Helpful Cooking Tips

  • Allow your dough to rest before rolling; this makes it easier to work with.
  • Experiment with various fillings! Swap out meats for veggies or switch cheeses to cater to your taste preferences.
  • If desired, sprinkle some Italian seasoning on top before air frying for an extra flavor boost.

Creative Twists

Consider trying different fillings to switch things up! For a vegan version, you can substitute cheeses with plant-based alternatives and add a variety of veggies. For meat lovers, add spicy sausage or even buffalo chicken along with some blue cheese.

Common Questions

How long does it take to make Air Fryer Calzones? Preparation and cooking typically take about 30-45 minutes, depending on your experience level.

Can I freeze these calzones? Yes, freeze them before air frying. Just ensure they are completely sealed to avoid freezer burn.

What if I don’t have an air fryer? You can bake them in a conventional oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.

What dipping sauces go well with calzones? Marinara is classic, but ranch or garlic sauce also complement the flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Calzones are a fantastic, versatile dish that can cater to various tastes and dietary preferences. If you’re interested in trying out some variations or need inspiration, check out The Best Air Fryer Calzones for even more ideas! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

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