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

Name: Air Fryer Calzones
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Store-bought pizza dough or homemade pizza dough; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup cooked meat (e.g., pepperoni, sausage, or chicken); 1 cup chopped spinach or arugula; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 beaten egg (for egg wash)

Imagine a comforting pocket bursting with warm, cheesy goodness and savory ingredients. Air Fryer Calzones are not just a meal; they evoke nostalgia, sparking memories of family pizza nights and cozy gatherings with friends. With a crunchy exterior and a melty, flavorful filling, these calzones are bound to delight not just your taste buds but also your soul. Let’s dive into this incredible recipe that promises to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why Make This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Prep and cooking are a cinch, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable: Fill them with your favorite ingredients—there’s no wrong way to enjoy a calzone.

Saying goodbye to ordinary dinners is easy with this recipe. It turns simple ingredients into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Easy Method for Air Fryer Calzones

Creating the perfect Air Fryer Calzones is a straightforward process that combines fresh ingredients, a touch of creativity, and the magic of your air fryer. With just a few simple steps, you’ll bring the taste of Italy straight to your kitchen.

Prepare the Dough: If you’re using store-bought pizza dough, let it come to room temperature as per the package instructions. If you’re feeling adventurous and using homemade dough, roll it out into a thin sheet, ensuring it’s pliable and easy to work with.
Mix Fillings: In a large mixing bowl, combine all your filling ingredients: ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, cooked meat of your choice, and chopped spinach or arugula. Don’t forget to season the mixture with dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully integrated.
Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, place your dough and roll it into a large circle about ¼ inch thick. This thickness allows the dough to cook perfectly in the air fryer while still retaining its chewiness.
Cut the Dough: Now it’s time to cut the dough into large circles, ideally measuring around 6-8 inches in diameter. You can use a pizza cutter or a sharp knife for this task.
Fill the Calzones: Spoon a generous amount of your delicious cheese and meat mixture onto one half of each dough circle. Ensure you’re leaving ample space at the edges so they can seal properly.
Fold and Seal: Fold the empty half over the filled half neatly. A crucial step is pinching the edges tightly to seal the calzones. You can also use a fork to crimp the edges if you prefer a decorative touch.
Prepare for Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of your calzones lightly with the beaten egg. This egg wash will create a beautiful golden finish when they cook.
Air Fry the Calzones: Place the calzones in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Depending on your air fryer’s capacity, you may need to work in batches. Air fry for 10-15 minutes until they turn golden brown and the filling bubbles.
Check for Doneness: Once you reach the timer, check to ensure the filling is bubbly and the dough is cooked through. If they need a bit more time, add an extra couple of minutes as needed.
Serve: Let the calzones cool slightly before serving as they’re best enjoyed fresh out of the air fryer, with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Storage Tips for Air Fryer Calzones

If you have leftovers or want to make a batch ahead of time, here’s how to keep them fresh:

Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days at 40°F.
For longer storage, freeze the calzones for up to 2 months.
To reheat, air fry at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes or until heated through.

Best Ways to Serve Air Fryer Calzones

When it comes to serving Air Fryer Calzones, the options are delightful:

Classic Marinara Dip: This pairing is a no-brainer. The tangy tomato sauce enhances the savory filling beautifully.
Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the calzones perfectly.
Herbed Olive Oil: Serve a small bowl of herbed olive oil for dipping. Combine olive oil with garlic, oregano, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an Italian flair.

Feel free to mix and match or create your own signature serving companions based on your taste preferences!

Tips to Make Air Fryer Calzones

Chill the Dough: If you’re using homemade dough, chilling it for about 30 minutes makes it easier to handle.
Experiment with Fillings: Don’t be afraid to get creative. Cheese blends, sautéed mushrooms, or fresh herbs can all elevate your calzone game.
Avoid Overfilling: Be cautious not to overstuff; it will make sealing the dough challenging.

Variations or Substitutions

Are you looking to jazz things up a bit? Try these variations:

Vegetarian Option: Swap the meats for roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian calzone.
Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick, perfect for those who love heat.

FAQs

Q: Can I make these calzones ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prepare calzones, freeze them before air frying, and cook them straight from frozen. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

If you don’t have ricotta, cream cheese or cottage cheese can work as a substitute. They might change the flavor slightly but will yield a delicious result!

Q: How do I keep them moist?

A: A good filling-to-dough ratio is essential. Adding a bit of sauce to the filling helps maintain moisture while helping to bind the ingredients.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for the filling?

Definitely! Cooked chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture than breasts and work excellently in your calzone.

Q: How can I make my calzones healthier?

Opt for whole wheat pizza dough for a more nutritious option, and fill your calzones with plenty of vegetables alongside your protein of choice!

Conclusion

Air Fryer Calzones are a fantastic meal option, bringing together the joys of Italian cuisine with the ease of modern cooking technology. With versatile fillings, simple ingredients, and an easy-to-follow recipe, these calzones can transform your dinner table into a lively pizzeria experience. With your newfound air fryer skills, you’re now equipped to keep your family and friends delighted with each delicious bite. So why wait? Roll up your sleeves and enjoy the delightful journey of making your own gourmet calzones at home! Consider this recipe a canvas, inviting you to paint your culinary masterpiece—one flavor at a time. Happy cooking!