Air Fryer Calzones: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for 4 Easy Servings
Why Make This Recipe
Air Fryer Calzones are a delightful and easy way to enjoy a delicious Italian treat right at home. They combine the flavors of pizza into a portable pocket that is crispy on the outside and filled with gooey, cheesy goodness inside. This recipe is simple, making it perfect for a quick dinner or a fun snack for the family. Plus, using an air fryer means you get the same crispy texture without the excess oil.
How to Make Air Fryer Calzones
Ingredients:
- 1 package of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cooked meats (pepperoni, sausage, or chicken), diced
- 1 cup fresh spinach or arugula, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Marinara sauce (for dipping)
Directions:
- Prepare the Dough: If you’re using store-bought pizza dough, let it come to room temperature according to package instructions. If homemade, ensure it is rolled out into a thin sheet.
- Mix Fillings: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, cooked meats, spinach, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large circle, about ¼ inch thick.
- Cut the Dough: Use a pizza cutter or knife to cut the dough into large circles, about 6-8 inches in diameter.
- Fill the Calzones: Place a generous scoop of the cheese and meat mixture on one half of each dough circle, leaving enough space at the edges to seal.
- Fold and Seal: Fold the half without filling over the filled half. Pinch the edges tightly to seal, or use a fork to crimp the edges.
- Prepare for Air Frying: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the calzones with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Air Fry the Calzones: Place the calzones in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to cook them in batches. Air fry for 10-15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure that the filling is bubbly and the dough is cooked. If needed, add a couple of extra minutes.
- Serve: Allow the calzones to cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed right out of the air fryer.
How to Serve Air Fryer Calzones
Serve the calzones hot with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. They make an excellent appetizer or a main dish when paired with a simple salad.
How to Store Air Fryer Calzones
To store leftovers, place the calzones in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes or in the oven to regain their crispy texture.
Tips to Make Air Fryer Calzones
- Make sure to seal the edges well to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.
- You can experiment with different fillings based on your taste. Veggies, different cheeses, and spices can add variety.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary for even cooking.
Variation
You can create vegetarian calzones by omitting the meat and adding more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
FAQs
Q: Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
A: Yes, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly and saves time.
Q: What can I dip my calzones in?
A: Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but you can also use ranch dressing, garlic butter, or pesto.
Q: Can I freeze calzones?
A: Yes, you can freeze uncooked calzones. Once sealed, place them in a freezer bag and cook from frozen in the air fryer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Air Fryer Calzones
Ingredients
Method
- If you're using store-bought pizza dough, let it come to room temperature according to package instructions. If homemade, ensure it is rolled out into a thin sheet.
- In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, cooked meats, spinach, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large circle, about ¼ inch thick.
- Use a pizza cutter or knife to cut the dough into large circles, about 6-8 inches in diameter.
- Place a generous scoop of the cheese and meat mixture on one half of each dough circle, leaving enough space at the edges to seal.
- Fold the half without filling over the filled half. Pinch the edges tightly to seal, or use a fork to crimp the edges.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the calzones with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Place the calzones in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to cook them in batches. Air fry for 10-15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Ensure that the filling is bubbly and the dough is cooked. If needed, add a couple of extra minutes.
- Allow the calzones to cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed right out of the air fryer.