Air Fryer Calzones
What makes this recipe special
Air fryer calzones are a delightful twist on traditional pizza, combining all the savory flavors of your favorite pie into a portable, pocket-sized treat. They’re lightweight yet hearty, making them perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun family brunch, or even as appetizers for gatherings. The convenience of the air fryer allows these calzones to turn golden brown and crispy in a fraction of the time it would take to bake them in a conventional oven. Plus, they can easily be customized with a variety of fillings, tailor-made to suit your preferences.
Step-by-step overview
Making air fryer calzones is straightforward and rewarding. You only need to gather a few key ingredients, prepare the filling, and assemble the dough before air frying them to perfection. Here’s a simple breakdown of the process:
- Preheat the air fryer.
- Prepare the pizza dough and cut it into circles.
- Mix your desired fillings and place them onto the dough.
- Seal the calzones and brush them with oil.
- Air fry until golden brown.
This method not only saves time but also reduces the need for excessive oil, aligning with a healthier cooking approach.
Key ingredients
Gather these items to create delicious air fryer calzones:
- Pizza dough
- Mozzarella cheese
- Ricotta cheese
- Pepperoni or other fillings (such as vegetables or cooked chicken)
- Olive oil
- Italian seasoning
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
This ingredient list allows flexibility; feel free to substitute with your choices, such as different cheeses or meats, or even make a vegetarian version by loading up on veggies!
Directions to follow
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface and cut it into circles, about 6 inches in diameter.
- In a mixing bowl, combine mozzarella, ricotta, and your choice of fillings until thoroughly mixed.
- Spoon a generous amount of filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving room to seal.
- Fold the other half of the dough over the filled side, pressing the edges firmly to seal. You can crimp with a fork for a decorative touch.
- Brush the calzones with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian seasoning and optional parmesan cheese.
- Place the calzones in the air fryer basket and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden brown.
- Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
Air fryer calzones are incredibly versatile. Serve them warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, or pair them with a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a creative spin, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic reduction on top before serving. They also make for a fantastic snack during movie nights or game days!
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your air fryer calzones fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay good for about 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer again for about 5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until they are warmed through. Alternatively, you can also use a toaster oven if you prefer. For longer storage, consider freezing the assembled (but uncooked) calzones. Simply wrap them tightly and freeze; they can be cooked straight from the freezer anytime!
Helpful cooking tips
- Look for pre-made pizza dough for an even quicker option.
- Don’t overfill the calzones to prevent them from bursting during cooking.
- Experiment with fillings! Cheese, vegetables, or even dessert fillings can all work beautifully.
- Make sure to preheat the air fryer; this helps achieve a nice, crispy exterior.
Creative twists
Feel free to change things up with different flavors. Consider adding barbecue chicken for a BBQ calzone, or use a mix of cheeses, such as gouda and cheddar, for a gourmet touch. If you prefer a spicy kick, you might add jalapeños or crushed red pepper to the filling mix. Vegetarian options can include spinach and feta or roasted peppers and mushrooms for a Mediterranean vibe.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to make air fryer calzones?
The preparation and cooking time is typically around 30-40 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for dinner.
2. Can I use regular pizza dough from the store?
Absolutely! Pre-made pizza dough works perfectly and saves you time in the kitchen.
3. What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can bake calzones in a conventional oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Can I freeze stuffed calzones?
Yes, you can freeze assembled but uncooked calzones. Just wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for later use.
Conclusion
Air fryer calzones are not only delicious but also provide a fun cooking experience that you can enjoy with family or friends. If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out this amazing recipe for Air Fryer Calzones from Momsdish, which includes easy-to-follow steps and tips for perfecting your homemade treat!
