Make Irresistible Air Fryer Calzones in 4 Simple Steps

Are you a fan of calzones, those delightful pocket-sized pizza creations? Well, hold onto your taste buds, because we’re about to take the humble calzone to new heights with the help of an air fryer! That’s right, you can now enjoy all the cheesy, saucy goodness of a calzone with an extra-crispy twist, thanks to the magic of air frying. Get ready to wow your family and friends with these irresistible Air Fryer Calzones.

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The Benefits of Air Frying Calzones

Traditional calzones are often baked in the oven, which can result in a somewhat doughy or soggy exterior. But by utilizing the power of an air fryer, you can achieve a calzone with a perfectly golden-brown, crunchy crust on the outside, while the inside remains deliciously gooey and packed with flavor. The air fryer’s rapid circulation of hot air helps to lock in all the cheesy goodness while creating a truly satisfying texture. Plus, air frying is a healthier cooking method compared to deep frying, allowing you to indulge in your calzone cravings without the guilt.

Ingredients for Delectable Air Fryer Calzones

• 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup pepperoni slices (or your favorite toppings)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• All-purpose flour (for dusting)
• Optional: Italian seasoning, garlic powder

Preparing the Dough for Air Fryer Calzones

To begin, divide your pizza dough into 4 equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, use a rolling pin to roll each portion into a 6 to 8 inch circle. This ensures that your calzones will have the perfect size and thickness for air frying. If you’re using homemade dough, take your time and work the dough gently to prevent it from tearing. Store-bought dough can also work wonderfully, so feel free to use your favorite brand for a hassle-free shortcut.

Crafting the Flavorful Fillings

Now, it’s time to add the delectable fillings! Spread 2 tablespoons of pizza sauce onto the center of each dough circle, leaving about a half-inch border around the edge. This will prevent any messy leaks during the cooking process. Top the sauce with a generous helping of shredded mozzarella cheese and your favorite toppings, such as pepperoni slices. Just be mindful not to overstuff the calzones, as that can lead to some unwanted oozing.

Sealing the Air Fryer Calzones for Perfection

The key to achieving perfectly sealed Air Fryer Calzones is to fold the clean half of the dough over the filling, creating a classic half-moon shape. Firmly press the edges together, then use a fork to crimp and seal the calzones completely. This ensures that the delicious fillings stay nestled inside, where they belong, during the air frying process.

Brushing and Preheating for Crispiness

To help the calzones achieve that signature golden-brown, crispy exterior, brush the top of each one with a light coating of olive oil. This little trick adds an extra layer of deliciousness. If desired, you can also sprinkle on a bit of Italian seasoning or garlic powder for an extra flavor boost. Now, preheat your air fryer to a toasty 375°F (190°C), and let’s get ready to air fry!

Air Frying the Air Fryer Calzones

Once your air fryer is preheated, lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Carefully place 1 to 2 calzones in the basket, making sure they don’t touch each other. Air fry the calzones for 7 to 10 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time, until they’re golden brown and crispy. The exact timing may vary depending on your specific air fryer model, so keep a close eye on them to achieve the perfect texture.

Serving and Enjoying Your Air Fryer Calzones

When the Air Fryer Calzones are done, let them cool for 2 to 3 minutes before serving. This allows the fillings to settle a bit and prevents any scalding-hot surprises. Serve the calzones warm, with a side of extra pizza sauce for dipping. Your family and friends are sure to be impressed by the delightful combination of crispy crust and gooey, flavorful fillings.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Air Fryer Pizza Bombs
• Garlic Butter Bacon Rollups
• Cheesy Bacon Mac and Cheese
• Crispy Bacon Burger Fries Supreme

FAQs About Air Fryer Calzones

How can I make my air fryer calzones extra crispy?

To achieve an extra crispy texture for your air fryer calzones, consider the following tips: First, ensure that you preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature (usually around 375°F or 190°C) to kickstart the cooking process. Second, lightly brush the outside of the calzones with olive oil or melted butter before air frying; this helps to create a golden-brown crust. Additionally, you can sprinkle a bit of cornmeal on the bottom of the air fryer basket or directly on the dough before cooking, which can enhance crispiness. Finally, avoid overcrowding the basket to allow for proper air circulation, which is key for achieving that desired crunch.

Can I use alternative fillings for my air fryer calzones?

Absolutely! One of the best aspects of calzones is their versatility. You can customize the fillings based on your preferences or dietary restrictions. For meat lovers, consider using cooked sausage, chicken, or bacon. For a vegetarian option, try adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers, along with cheese. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as ricotta, provolone, or gouda, to add unique flavors. For a healthier twist, incorporate ingredients like spinach or zucchini. Just make sure to keep the fillings relatively dry to prevent sogginess.

What should I do if my calzones are leaking filling during cooking?

If your air fryer calzones are leaking filling while cooking, it’s likely due to overfilling or improper sealing. To prevent this, ensure you leave enough space at the edges of the dough when adding fillings to allow for sealing. Use a fork or your fingers to crimp the edges securely—this is vital for keeping the fillings contained during cooking. If you notice any small tears in the dough, you can patch them up with a little extra dough. Additionally, you may want to consider using firmer fillings that are less likely to release moisture while cooking.

How do I reheat leftover air fryer calzones without losing their texture?

To reheat leftover air fryer calzones while retaining their crispiness, preheat your air fryer to around 350°F (175°C). Place the calzones in the basket and heat them for about 5-7 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even heating. This method helps to restore their original texture, preventing them from becoming soggy. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a conventional oven at the same temperature for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it tends to make the dough chewy and less appealing.

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these irresistible Air Fryer Calzones! Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a pizza-themed gathering, these crispy, flavor-packed pockets are sure to be a hit. So preheat your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and let’s start crafting some delectable calzones that will leave your family and friends begging for more.

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

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