Crazy Easy Air Fryer Calzones Recipe -

Ingredients for Air Fryer Calzones

To create these delicious air fryer calzones, you’ll need a selection of simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 package of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup of marinara sauce
1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup of ricotta cheese
1/2 cup of chopped pepperoni or your choice of filling (vegetables, ham, etc.)
1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
1 egg (for egg wash)
Olive oil spray

Preparation Steps for Air Fryer Calzones

Follow these straightforward steps to prepare your air fryer calzones:

Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat while you prepare the calzones.
Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut the dough into circles, approximately 6 inches in diameter. You should get about 4 to 6 circles depending on your dough size.
Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, chopped pepperoni (or your chosen filling), and Italian seasoning. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Fill the Calzones: Place a generous amount of the cheese and filling mixture onto one half of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make sealing difficult.
Seal the Calzones: Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges together to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
Prepare for Cooking: Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush the mixture over the top of each calzone. This will give them a nice golden color when cooked. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil spray for extra crispiness.

Cooking the Air Fryer Calzones

Now it’s time to cook your calzones in the air fryer. Follow these simple instructions:

Arrange the Calzones: Place the sealed calzones in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure there’s enough space between each calzone for air circulation.
Air Fry: Cook the calzones at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Check them halfway through and flip them if necessary for even cooking.
Check for Doneness: Once the cooking time is up, check the calzones for doneness. They should be crispy on the outside and the cheese inside should be melted. If they need more time, continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Calzones

These air fryer calzones are not only delicious but also versatile. Here are some serving suggestions that can elevate your meal:

Marinara Dipping Sauce: Serve your calzones with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping. This adds extra flavor and moisture.
Fresh Salad: Pair your calzones with a fresh garden salad topped with your favorite dressing. This adds a refreshing balance to the meal.
Garlic Butter: Brush melted garlic butter over the calzones just after cooking for an extra flavor boost. Sprinkle with parsley for a fancy touch.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheese blends such as provolone, cheddar, or feta for unique flavor profiles.
Vegetable Add-ins: Incorporate sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the filling for added texture and taste.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Calzones

To ensure your air fryer calzones turn out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:

Don’t Overfill: Be cautious not to overfill the calzones, as this can cause them to burst during cooking.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking and a crispy crust.
Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your fillings. Try combinations like spinach and feta, BBQ chicken, or even breakfast calzones with eggs and sausage.
Keep an Eye on Cooking Time: Air fryers can vary in cooking times, so check your calzones a bit earlier or later depending on your specific model.
Store Leftovers Properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.

Air Fryer Calzones Variations

If you want to mix things up, here are some fun variations to try:

Buffalo Chicken Calzones: Swap the pepperoni for shredded buffalo chicken and add some blue cheese crumbles for a spicy kick.
Veggie Lovers Calzones: Stuff the calzones with a medley of sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, and bell peppers, along with some mozzarella for a cheesy touch.
Caprese Calzones: Fill with fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes, drizzling with balsamic glaze after cooking for a fresh Italian flavor.
Breakfast Calzones: Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and your choice of breakfast meats like bacon or sausage for a delicious morning treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding air fryer calzones:

Can I use store-bought pizza dough? Yes, store-bought pizza dough is a convenient option and works perfectly for this recipe.
How do I make the calzones crispy? Ensure you preheat your air fryer and lightly spray the calzones with olive oil before cooking for a crispy exterior.
Can I freeze calzones? Absolutely! You can freeze uncooked calzones. Just assemble them and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What dipping sauces go well with calzones? Marinara sauce, garlic butter, ranch dressing, or even a spicy aioli can make great dipping sauces for your calzones.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your air fryer calzones, consider pairing them with these delicious sides and sauces:

Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the calzones.
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a comforting Italian-inspired meal.
Homemade Dipping Sauces: Create your own dipping sauces by mixing mayonnaise with herbs or spices, or serve with a zesty marinara.
Wine Pairing: A glass of red wine, like Chianti or Sangiovese, can enhance the dining experience with your calzones.

How to Customize Your Air Fryer Calzones

Making air fryer calzones gives you the freedom to customize to your heart’s content. Here are some tips to tweak the recipe:

Change the Dough: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pizza dough for a healthier version.
Spice Up the Filling: Add different spices to the filling, like Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, or garlic powder, to enhance the flavor.
Experiment with Toppings: Top your calzones with grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of fresh herbs after cooking for an extra touch of flavor.

Making Calzones with Kids

Air fryer calzones can be a fun cooking project to do with kids. Here’s how to involve them:

Let Them Choose Fillings: Allow your kids to pick their favorite ingredients to fill their calzones.
Teach Them to Fold: Show them how to properly fold and seal the calzones for a fun hands-on experience.
Decorate the Calzones: Let them get creative with the toppings and sauces before and after cooking.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Proper storage and reheating will ensure that your air fryer calzones maintain their delicious quality:

Refrigeration: Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: To freeze cooked calzones, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy.

Final Note on Air Fryer Calzones

Air fryer calzones are not only easy to make but also allow for endless creativity. Whether you stick to a classic filling or venture into new flavor combinations, the air fryer makes the process quick and hassle-free. Enjoy your homemade calzones fresh out of the air fryer with your favorite sides and sauces for a delightful meal that everyone will love!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your air fryer calzones turn out perfectly every time, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Overfilling: Be careful not to overfill your calzones, as this can lead to bursting during cooking. Stick to a moderate amount of filling.
Not Sealing Properly: Make sure to seal the edges thoroughly by pressing them together or crimping with a fork to keep the filling secure.
Skipping the Preheat: Always preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before cooking. This helps achieve that golden-brown finish.
Neglecting the Cooking Spray: A light spray of oil on the calzones before cooking can help enhance browning and prevent sticking.

Creative Flavor Combinations

If you’re looking to try something different, consider these unique flavor combinations for your air fryer calzones:

Buffalo Chicken: Shredded chicken mixed with buffalo sauce and cream cheese for a spicy twist.
Caprese: Fresh mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction for a fresh taste.
Breakfast Calzone: Scrambled eggs, cheese, and cooked breakfast sausage or bacon for a hearty morning meal.
Veggie Delight: Spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, and feta cheese for a healthy, vegetarian option.

Air Fryer Calzones for Meal Prep

Air fryer calzones are perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to make them a staple in your weekly routine:

Batch Cooking: Make a large batch on the weekend and freeze extras for quick lunches or dinners during the week.
Mix and Match: Prepare different fillings to keep your meals exciting and varied throughout the week.
Easy Reheating: Simply pop them in the air fryer for a quick and satisfying meal any day.

Conclusion

In summary, making delicious air fryer calzones at home is a simple and enjoyable process that can be easily customized to suit your taste. With just a few ingredients and the convenience of an air fryer, you can create a hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, these calzones are sure to impress with their crispy exterior and flavorful filling. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delightful twist on a classic dish!

Crazy Easy Air Fryer Calzones Recipe