Air Fryer Calzone Recipe: Crispy, Cheesy, and Delicious!

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Craving a quick and easy Italian treat? This Air Fryer Calzone Recipe brings all the deliciousness of traditional calzones with a fraction of the cooking time. The air fryer creates a crispy golden crust while keeping the inside filled with gooey cheese, savory sauce, and your favorite toppings. Perfect for busy weeknights, game nights, or anytime you want a homemade pizza pocket!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Calzone

This recipe is a game-changer for pizza lovers. The air fryer cooks the calzone to perfection in just minutes, giving it a crispy exterior without the extra oil. Plus, it’s fully customizable! You can fill your calzone with classic pepperoni and cheese, or get creative with veggies, sausage, or even vegan options. It’s a healthier, faster alternative to oven-baked calzones.

Ingredients

Pizza dough – 1 pound (store-bought or homemade)
Pizza sauce – 1/2 cup
Mozzarella cheese – 1 cup, shredded
Pepperoni – 1/2 cup (or any preferred filling)
Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
Olive oil – 1 tablespoon (for brushing)
Optional: Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
Optional: Marinara sauce for dipping

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Divide the pizza dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a round, about 6-8 inches in diameter.
Step 3: Spread 2 tablespoons of pizza sauce on one half of each dough round, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
Step 4: Add shredded mozzarella cheese and pepperoni (or your preferred fillings) on top of the sauce. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
Step 5: Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges with a fork to seal.
Step 6: Brush the tops with olive oil to ensure a crispy crust.
Step 7: Place the calzones in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 8: Remove from the air fryer and let cool for a few minutes. Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping.

Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Calzone

Don’t overfill: Too much filling can cause the calzone to burst open during cooking. Stick to about 1/4 cup of filling per calzone.
Brush with oil: A light brush of olive oil on top ensures a crispy, golden crust.
Use parchment paper: Place a small piece of parchment paper under the calzones in the air fryer to prevent sticking.

Filling Variations

Get creative with your fillings! Here are some tasty ideas:

Veggie Calzone: Spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, and olives
Meat Lovers: Sausage, bacon, pepperoni, and ham
BBQ Chicken: Shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, red onions, and cheddar cheese
Vegan Option: Dairy-free cheese, spinach, and artichoke hearts

Serving Suggestions

These air fryer calzones are perfect as a main course or a fun appetizer. Pair them with a fresh side salad, garlic knots, or a bowl of tomato soup for a complete meal. Don’t forget the marinara or garlic butter for dipping!

Health Benefits of Air Fryer Calzones

Making calzones in an air fryer is a healthier alternative to deep-frying. It uses minimal oil, reducing the calorie and fat content while still delivering a crispy crust. Plus, using fresh ingredients and whole-grain pizza dough can increase the fiber and nutrient content of your meal, making it a nutritious and satisfying option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I freeze uncooked calzones?

Yes! You can prepare the calzones, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, air fry them straight from frozen, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the cooking time.

2. How do I reheat leftover calzones?

To reheat, place the calzone back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. This keeps them crispy!

3. Can I use puff pastry instead of pizza dough?

Absolutely! Puff pastry creates a lighter, flakier crust. Just adjust the cooking time to about 6-8 minutes, as it cooks faster than traditional pizza dough.

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Calzone Recipe is a quick, easy, and healthier way to enjoy a classic Italian favorite. With endless filling options, it’s perfect for satisfying all your pizza cravings. Give it a try, and it might just become your new go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy weekends!

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