Air Fryer Calzones

Name: Air Fryer Calzones
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 package pizza dough; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup pepperoni slices; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a warm calzone, where chewy dough envelops gooey cheese and savory fillings. For those who crave this Italian delight without the fuss of traditional frying or baking, air fryer calzones are the perfect solution. They’re quick to make, customizable, and simply delicious. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, a snack for game night, or meal prep for the week, this recipe is here to save the day.

Why Make This Recipe

Air fryer calzones are crispy and golden without the excess oil, making them a healthier option.
They are incredibly versatile, allowing you to fill them with your favorite ingredients.
The air fryer significantly cuts down on cooking time while delivering that freshly-baked taste.

If you’re looking for an easy, impressive dish that pleases a crowd while fitting seamlessly into a busy lifestyle, these air fryer calzones check all the boxes.

Easy Method for Air Fryer Calzones

Making air fryer calzones at home is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s a straightforward process that even novice cooks can master. Follow this easy step-by-step guide that will take you from dough to deliciousness before you know it!

Preheat the Air Fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This initial step ensures your calzones cook evenly and achieve that ideal crispy texture.
Prepare the Dough: Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface. Use a rolling pin to stretch it out as evenly as possible. Then, cut the dough into circles, about 6 inches in diameter. You can use a large cookie cutter or even a bowl to create perfect shapes.
Add the Fillings: Place a generous amount of mozzarella cheese and a few slices of pepperoni on one half of each dough circle. Don’t be shy with the cheese; it’s the secret to achieving that mouthwatering gooeyness you crave.
Seal the Calzones: Carefully fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal them, ensuring that the cheese and pepperoni stay tucked inside. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for an extra touch.
Brush and Season: Grab your olive oil and a brush. Lightly brush the tops of each calzone with olive oil. Sprinkle Italian seasoning over the top to enhance the flavor.
Air Fry the Calzones: Place the calzones in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Be sure not to overcrowd them, as this can affect cooking time. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
Serve and Enjoy: Once they are perfectly cooked, take them out and allow them to cool for a moment. Serve your air fryer calzones with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

Storage Tips for Air Fryer Calzones

Keeping your delicious calzones fresh is essential for enjoying them later. Here are some handy storage recommendations:

Refrigerate: Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days at a temperature of 40°F or below.
Freeze: If you wish to save them for later, freeze calzones for up to 2 months. Lay them flat on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag to prevent sticking.
Reheating: To reheat, pop them back into the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or until heated through.

Best Ways to Serve Air Fryer Calzones

When it comes to serving air fryer calzones, the possibilities are endless. Consider these options to elevate your meal experience:

Family Style: Arrange calzones on a large platter with bowls of marinara sauce, ranch dressing, and spicy mustard for dipping. This creates a communal feel, perfect for family gatherings or game nights.
Salad Pairing: Serve your calzones alongside a crisp Caesar or garden salad. The contrast of fresh veggies with the rich and cheesy calzone makes for a balanced meal.
Leftover Magic: Transform leftover calzones into a new dish. Chop or tear them into bite-sized pieces, toss them into a salad, or mix them into pasta for a unique twist.
Garnish Delightfully: Add fresh basil or parsley on top for presentation. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give additional flavor and a pop of color.
Beverage Choice: Pair your calzones with Italian sodas, a light beer, or even a glass of red wine to complete the experience.

Tips to Make Air Fryer Calzones

Here are some quick tips to ensure your calzones turn out perfect every time:

Dough Thickness: Keep the dough fairly thin. This allows the calzones to cook evenly and become crispy rather than doughy.
Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to load them up with fillings, overstuffing can cause them to burst open in the air fryer. Aim for a balance of ingredients.
Experiment with Seasoning: Feel free to add garlic powder, onion powder, or even crushed red pepper flakes to the olive oil for an extra flavor kick.
Let Them Rest: Allow your calzones to rest for a couple of minutes after cooking. This prevents you from burning your mouth on the oozy cheese.

Variations or Substitutions

Feel free to get creative when making your calzones. Here are some variations you might consider:

Vegetarian Delight: Swap out the pepperoni for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. You can even add ricotta cheese for a creamy texture along with mozzarella.
Meat Lover’s Calzone: For a heartier option, include cooked sausage, ham, or ground beef with the mozzarella. Don’t forget to season your meat to enhance the flavor.

If you prefer a lighter option, consider using cauliflower-based pizza dough. It’s a fun way to enjoy calzones without the carbs!

FAQs

Q: Can I make these calzones ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the calzones and store them unbaked in the refrigerator for a day or two. When you’re ready to eat, pop them into the air fryer straight from the fridge.

Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Absolutely! While mozzarella is traditional, feel free to experiment with provolone, gouda, or even feta for unique flavors.

Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: To add some heat, you can include jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes inside the calzone. Hot sauces also work well as a dipping sauce!

Q: What’s the best way to reheat calzones?

Use the air fryer to reheat at 350°F for about 5 minutes.
Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, wrapped in foil to prevent drying out.

Q: Can I make these with gluten-free dough?
A: Yes, you can use gluten-free pizza dough, which is widely available in stores. Just follow the same preparation steps as with regular dough.

These air fryer calzones are not just a meal; they are a fun cooking experience to enjoy with family and friends. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, they are sure to impress everyone at the table. Plus, with the ease and speed of the air fryer, you’ll want to make them again and again.

By mastering this recipe, you’ll have a go-to dish that can evolve with your tastes and ingredients on hand. So what are you waiting for? Grab your dough and fillings, and let’s get cooking! Your air fryer calzone journey is about to begin, and it promises to be delicious.