Why Make This Recipe
Air Fryer Calzones are a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or a fun weekend meal. They are easy to make, delicious, and customizable. You can fill them with your favorite ingredients, making them a crowd-pleaser for adults and kids alike. Plus, air frying gives them a crispy exterior without the need for deep frying, making them a bit healthier.
How to Make Air Fryer Calzones
Ingredients:
- Pizza dough
- Ricotta cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Pepperoni or other desired fillings
- Egg (for egg wash)
- Italian seasoning
- Marinara sauce (for dipping)
Directions:
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough and cut it into circles.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning.
- Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture and desired fillings in the center of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges.
- Brush the tops with egg wash.
- Place in air fryer basket and cook for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
How to Serve Air Fryer Calzones
Serve Air Fryer Calzones hot and crispy, paired with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. They make a great appetizer, snack, or meal. You can also serve them with a fresh salad or some steamed vegetables to balance the meal.
How to Store Air Fryer Calzones
To store leftover calzones, let them cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap each calzone tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Air Fryer Calzones
- Make sure to seal the edges of the calzones well to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.
- Experiment with different fillings like vegetables, meats, or different cheeses to suit your taste.
- Be careful not to overcrowd the air fryer. Cook in batches if needed to ensure even cooking.
Variation
You can easily switch up the fillings in your calzones. Try adding sautéed vegetables, different types of cheese, or even a marinara or pesto spread inside for a unique twist. For a spicy kick, you could add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes, store-bought pizza dough works great for making calzones! It saves time and still tastes delicious.
How do I know when the calzones are done?
They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can also check the internal temperature; it should reach at least 165°F (74°C).
Can I make these in advance?
You can prepare the calzones ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them. Just remember to cook and enjoy them within a couple of days for the best freshness.
Air Fryer Calzones
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, pepperoni, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; mix well to create the filling.
- Divide the pizza dough into four equal portions and roll each into a 6-7 inch diameter circle.
- Spoon a quarter of the cheese mixture onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a small border.
- Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, then crimp the edges tightly with a fork to seal.
- Brush the tops of the calzones with beaten egg wash and cut 2-3 small slits on top to allow steam to escape.
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), then place 1-2 calzones in the basket and air fry for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown, flipping halfway.
- Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving with warm marinara sauce for dipping.