Name: Air Fryer Calzones: Discover Your New Favorite Snack!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 package of pizza dough; 1 cup of marinara sauce; 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup of sliced pepperoni; 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning; Olive oil spray

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Introduction to Air Fryer Calzones

As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up something delicious that everyone will love. That’s where these Air Fryer Calzones come in! They’re not just a quick solution for a hectic day; they’re a delightful way to bring the flavors of pizza into a convenient pocket form. Imagine biting into a warm, cheesy calzone filled with your favorite toppings. It’s like a hug for your taste buds! Whether it’s a family movie night or a snack for yourself, these calzones are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Calzones

These Air Fryer Calzones are a game-changer for busy lives! They’re incredibly easy to make, taking just 27 minutes from start to finish. The air fryer gives them that perfect crispy texture without the guilt of deep frying. Plus, you can customize the fillings to suit everyone’s tastes, making them a hit with picky eaters. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Calzones

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making these delightful Air Fryer Calzones. Here’s what you’ll need:

Pizza Dough: The star of the show! You can use store-bought dough for convenience or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
Marinara Sauce: This adds a rich, tangy flavor. Feel free to use homemade or your favorite jarred version.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The gooey goodness that melts beautifully. You can substitute with a dairy-free option if needed.
Sliced Pepperoni: A classic choice for filling. You can swap it out for veggies or other proteins if you prefer.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice salty kick. If you’re out, you can skip it or use another hard cheese.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings everything together. You can use fresh herbs if you have them on hand.
Olive Oil Spray: This helps achieve that golden, crispy exterior. You can also brush the calzones with olive oil if you don’t have a spray.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing. Happy cooking!

How to Make Air Fryer Calzones

Making Air Fryer Calzones is a fun and straightforward process. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious snack ready in no time!

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

First things first, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial! Preheating ensures that your calzones cook evenly and develop that perfect crispy texture. Think of it as warming up your oven before baking a cake; it sets the stage for success!

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Next, roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface. Aim for about a quarter-inch thickness. If the dough sticks, sprinkle a little more flour. Then, cut the dough into circles using a large cookie cutter or a bowl. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; a little imperfection adds character!

Step 3: Fill the Calzones

Now comes the fun part—filling your calzones! On one half of each dough circle, place a spoonful of marinara sauce, a generous amount of mozzarella cheese, and a few slices of pepperoni. Sprinkle some Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning on top. Layering the ingredients this way ensures every bite is bursting with flavor!

Step 4: Seal the Calzones

To seal your calzones, fold the dough over to create a pocket. Press the edges firmly with your fingers, then use a fork to crimp the edges. This step is essential! Sealing them well prevents any delicious filling from leaking out during cooking. Trust me, you want all that cheesy goodness inside!

Step 5: Spray and Arrange

Give your calzones a light spray with olive oil. This helps them achieve that golden-brown color and crispy texture. Arrange them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd. This allows hot air to circulate around each calzone, ensuring even cooking.

Step 6: Cook to Perfection

Cook your calzones for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they cook! You want them to be golden brown and crispy. If you’re unsure, you can check one by gently opening it to see if the cheese is melted and bubbly. The aroma will be irresistible!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once they’re done, remove the calzones from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. This step is important! Letting them cool slightly helps the filling set, making them easier to eat. Serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping, and enjoy your homemade Air Fryer Calzones!

Tips for Success

Use a rolling pin to evenly flatten the dough for consistent cooking.
Don’t overfill your calzones; less is more to avoid leaks.
Experiment with different fillings like veggies or different cheeses.
Check the calzones a minute or two before the timer goes off for perfect doneness.
Let them cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth!

Equipment Needed

Air Fryer: The star of the show! Any model will do, but a basket-style fryer works best.
Rolling Pin: For rolling out the dough. A wine bottle can work in a pinch!
Cookie Cutter or Bowl: To cut the dough into circles. A glass can also do the trick.
Fork: For sealing the calzones. You can use your fingers if you prefer.

Variations

Veggie Delight: Swap out the pepperoni for a mix of sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach for a fresh twist.
Cheesy Spinach: Add ricotta cheese and fresh spinach to the filling for a creamy, nutritious option.
Buffalo Chicken: Use shredded cooked chicken tossed in buffalo sauce for a spicy kick.
Caprese Style: Fill with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a summery flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pizza dough to accommodate dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Air Fryer Calzones with a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping; it adds a delightful touch!
For drinks, consider a chilled sparkling water or a light red wine.
Present them on a colorful platter for a fun, inviting look.

FAQs about Air Fryer Calzones

Can I use store-bought pizza dough for Air Fryer Calzones?

Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough is a fantastic time-saver. It’s convenient and still delivers delicious results. Just roll it out and follow the recipe as usual!

What can I use as a filling besides pepperoni?

The beauty of Air Fryer Calzones is their versatility! You can fill them with veggies, different meats, or even cheeses. Try sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even a mix of your favorite cheeses for a unique twist!

How do I know when my calzones are done cooking?

Check for a golden-brown color and a crispy texture. You can also gently open one to see if the cheese is melted and bubbly. The aroma will be a good indicator too!

Can I make these calzones ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the calzones and refrigerate them before cooking. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before air frying to ensure even cooking.

What dipping sauces pair well with Air Fryer Calzones?

Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but you can also try ranch dressing, garlic butter, or even a spicy aioli for a fun twist. The options are endless!

Final Thoughts

Making Air Fryer Calzones is more than just cooking; it’s about creating moments of joy in the kitchen. The aroma wafting through your home as they cook is simply irresistible. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors, bringing smiles to your family’s faces. Whether you’re enjoying them during a cozy movie night or serving them at a gathering, these calzones are sure to be a hit. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time making memories with your loved ones. Happy cooking!

Air Fryer Calzones: Discover Your New Favorite Snack!

Print Recipe

Air Fryer Calzones are a delicious and easy-to-make snack that combines the flavors of pizza in a convenient pocket form, perfect for any occasion.

Author: Ghalina
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 4 calzones 1x
Category: Snack
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

1 package of pizza dough
1 cup of marinara sauce
1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup of sliced pepperoni
1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
Olive oil spray

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Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface and cut it into circles.
Place a spoonful of marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on one half of each dough circle.
Fold the dough over to create a pocket and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
Spray the calzones with olive oil spray.
Place the calzones in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving.