Air Fryer Calzones (Crazy Easy)

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to spice up your weeknight dinners, then these Air Fryer Calzones (Crazy Easy) are just what you need! They’re gooey on the inside, bursting with flavor, and oh-so-simple to make. Perfect for busy evenings or kids’ parties, these calzones will quickly become a family favorite. Imagine pulling them out of the air fryer, golden brown and warm, ready to be dipped in pizza sauce—yum!

What makes this recipe special is its versatility. You can customize the fillings to suit everyone’s tastes, making it an ideal option for gatherings or just a cozy night at home. Plus, they’re quick to whip up, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious calzones ready in no time!
• Kid-approved: These tasty pockets are perfect for little hands and picky eaters alike.
• Customizable fillings: Mix and match your favorite ingredients for endless variations.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch ahead of time and have quick meals ready for busy days.
• Comfort food at its best: Warm, cheesy goodness that hits all the right spots!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These air fryer calzones are made using simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Let’s gather what we need to create this delightful dish!

For the Calzones

• 1 lb pizza dough
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella
• 4 oz turkey pepperoni

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using diced chicken or cooked veggie sausage instead of turkey pepperoni for a different flavor.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and taste.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or provolone for a unique twist.
• Make it sweet: For a dessert version, fill your calzone with chocolate hazelnut spread and marshmallows!

How to Make Air Fryer Calzones (Crazy Easy)

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by splitting the pizza dough into 4 equal pieces. Using your hands, roll out each piece into a circular shape. This step is important because it ensures that each calzone has enough room to hold all those delicious fillings without spilling over.

Step 2: Add the Sauce

Using a ladle or spoon, spread the pizza sauce over half of each dough circle. Be sure to leave the edges clean! This helps create a nice seal when you fold over the dough later.

Step 3: Layer on the Goodness

Next, top the sauce with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella. Then add turkey pepperoni and another sprinkle of cheese on top. This layering method ensures that every bite is packed with cheesy goodness!

Step 4: Fold and Seal

Carefully fold over the clean side of the dough to form a half-circle shape. Crimp the edges using your fingers to seal everything inside securely. This step keeps all that yummy filling from leaking out while cooking.

Step 5: Air Fry Them Up

Spray your air fryer basket lightly with oil before placing the calzones inside. It’s important to give them space; cook them in batches if needed! Air fry at 375°F for about 7-10 minutes, turning them halfway through until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Once they’re done cooking, let them cool slightly before taking that first irresistible bite. Serve with extra pizza sauce on the side for dipping—trust me; you’ll want it!

Now you’re ready to impress everyone with these delightful Air Fryer Calzones (Crazy Easy). Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Calzones (Crazy Easy)

Making the perfect air fryer calzones is a breeze with a few handy tips up your sleeve. Here are some pro tips to enhance your calzone-making experience!

• Use Fresh Pizza Dough: Fresh dough yields the best texture and flavor. Store-bought options work too, but fresh dough can elevate your calzones to a whole new level.
• Don’t Overfill: It’s tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, but overfilling can lead to messy calzones. Stick to the recommended amounts for a perfectly sealed treat that won’t burst in the air fryer.
• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Just like an oven, preheating your air fryer ensures even cooking. This step helps achieve that golden-brown crust you crave without undercooking the insides.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative! Substitute turkey pepperoni with veggies or different cheeses to customize your calzones. This allows you to cater to various tastes and dietary preferences.
• Brush with Olive Oil: A light brush of olive oil on top before air frying adds extra crispiness and a beautiful golden color. Plus, it enhances the flavors of the crust!

How to Serve Air Fryer Calzones (Crazy Easy)

Serving air fryer calzones is just as fun as making them! Here are some delightful ideas to present this scrumptious dish that everyone will love.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil adds a pop of color and freshness, complementing the savory flavors beautifully.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate some Parmesan over the top just before serving for an extra layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with the gooey cheese inside.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery garlic bread on the side makes for a classic pairing. It’s perfect for dipping into any leftover pizza sauce!
• Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed greens salad with a simple vinaigrette balances out the richness of the calzones and adds freshness to your meal.
• Vegetable Sticks with Hummus: Crunchy vegetable sticks served with hummus provide a healthy crunch that contrasts nicely with the warm calzones.
• Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized delights filled with cheese and herbs make a delicious appetizer or side dish that complements your Italian-themed dinner perfectly.

So, whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner, these air fryer calzones are sure to be a hit! Enjoy every gooey bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Air Fryer Calzones are not only delicious but also make for a fantastic meal prep option! You can easily prepare them in advance and store them for quick snacks or meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow calzones to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Wrap each calzone tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped calzones in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For refrigerated calzones, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• For frozen calzones, air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they heat evenly.

FAQs

Have questions about making these Air Fryer Calzones? Here are some common queries!

Can I use different fillings for my Air Fryer Calzones?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your fillings. You can use vegetables, different meats, or even cheese varieties. Just make sure not to overfill them!

How do I know when my Air Fryer Calzones are done?

Look for a golden-brown crust on the calzones. They usually take about 7-10 minutes at 375°F. If they’re golden and crispy, they’re ready to enjoy!

Can I make Air Fryer Calzones ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare these calzones ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. Refer to the storage section above for tips on how to keep them fresh.

What should I serve with my Air Fryer Calzones?

They pair wonderfully with a side of marinara sauce for dipping! You could also serve a fresh salad or some veggies on the side.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Crazy Easy Air Fryer Calzones! Their gooey filling and crispy exterior make them truly special, perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. Enjoy experimenting with your favorite ingredients and watching everyone delight in this tasty treat. Happy cooking!