Did you ever wish for a cozy, homemade meal that doesn’t take hours to prepare? Enter my Easy Homemade Air Fryer Calzones! These delightful parcels are the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you’re craving something warm and comforting without all the fuss. Packed with creamy ricotta, stretchy mozzarella, and your choice of flavorful meats, they promise a satisfying bite every time. What’s more, you can whip them up in under 20 minutes, making them both a quick dinner option and an all-time crowd-pleaser. So, are you ready to elevate your weeknight meals and say goodbye to fast food? Let’s dive into the delicious world of air fryer calzones!
Why Choose Air Fryer Calzones?
Easy to Make: These calzones only require minimal prep and can be ready in less than 20 minutes, perfect for anyone with a busy lifestyle.
Customizable Ingredients: Mix and match with your favorite meats and veggies, allowing everyone to customize their filling—ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
Deliciously Cheesy: The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan guarantees a melty, irresistible cheese experience that you won’t want to miss.
Crispy Perfection: The air fryer gives these calzones a beautifully crisp exterior, making them a delightful alternative to baked or fried options.
Serve with Ease: Pair them with your favorite marinara sauce for dipping, just like you would with Air Fryer Tacos, ensuring a perfect blend of flavors.
All About Comfort: These calzones are hot, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying, bringing all the cozy vibes of homemade food straight to your table.
Air Fryer Calzones Ingredients
For the Dough
• Pizza Dough – Base for calzones; feel free to grab store-bought for a quick option or roll out your homemade dough for a personal touch.
For the Filling
• Ricotta Cheese – This creamy filling adds richness and moisture; you can substitute with cottage cheese for a lighter option.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Known for its melty stretchiness, mozzarella is a must, but swapping it for provolone will give a delightful new flavor.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Enhances the flavor depth; though optional, it’s highly recommended for that extra umami hit.
• Cooked Meats (e.g., pepperoni, sausage, chicken) – Adds protein and flavor, allowing for customization based on preference or dietary restrictions.
• Fresh Spinach or Arugula – This adds a touch of freshness and nutrition; you can also use other greens like kale or skip it altogether for a meat-only filling.
• Dried Oregano – Infuses an herby aroma and flavor; feel free to substitute with Italian seasoning.
• Garlic Powder – For an extra savory taste, fresh minced garlic can also be a fantastic alternative.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste.
For the Finishing Touch
• Egg (for egg wash) – Gives the calzones a beautiful golden finish when baked.
For Serving
• Marinara Sauce (for dipping) – Complements the calzones perfectly; any tomato-based sauce or pesto makes a great alternative!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Homemade Air Fryer Calzones
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by letting your store-bought pizza dough sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes, or roll out homemade dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick. This will make it easier to roll and shape later, ensuring the calzones turn out perfectly tender and easy to handle.
Step 2: Mix Fillings
In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, diced cooked meats, fresh spinach, oregano, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed and evenly distributed, creating a deliciously rich filling that will make your Air Fryer Calzones irresistible.
Step 3: Roll Out Dough
Lightly flour your work surface and take the prepared pizza dough. Use a rolling pin to roll it out into circles, approximately 6-8 inches in diameter. Make sure to keep the thickness even for even cooking in the air fryer; aim for a dough circumference that will enclose the filling generously.
Step 4: Cut the Dough
Using a knife or pizza cutter, carefully cut round shapes from the rolled-out dough. Each circle should be large enough to hold a satisfying amount of filling. This step ensures your calzones will have uniform sizes, making for an appealing presentation once baked.
Step 5: Fill the Calzones
On one half of each dough circle, place a generous spoonful of the cheese and meat filling. Be sure to leave a little margin on the edges for sealing later. This is where you can customize each calzone to fit personal tastes, ensuring everyone has delicious flavors in each bite.
Step 6: Fold and Seal
Carefully fold the empty half of the dough over the filled half, creating a pocket for your Air Fryer Calzones. Press the edges tightly together to seal them, using your fingers or a fork to crimp and ensure no filling leaks out during cooking. Proper sealing is crucial for a delightful, mess-free outcome.
Step 7: Prepare for Air Frying
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C), allowing it to get nice and hot. While it’s heating, brush the tops of your calzones with beaten egg for a beautiful, golden finish. This simple step elevates the calzones’ appearance, making them picture-perfect and extra appetizing.
Step 8: Air Fry the Calzones
Place the calzones in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket. Cook them for about 10-15 minutes, checking halfway through for a golden-brown exterior and bubbling filling. The hot air will crisp the dough beautifully, turning your easy homemade Air Fryer Calzones into a delightful treat.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once golden and crispy, remove the calzones from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. This allows the filling to settle slightly, making them easier to handle. Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping, creating a flavorful experience that everyone will love.
Air Fryer Calzones Variations
Feel free to explore these tasty options to make the recipe your own and discover delightful new flavors!
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Vegetarian Twist: Replace meats with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to create a delicious veggie-centric calzone. The sweetness of roasted veggies adds a whole new layer of flavor.
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Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick, making your calzones sing with heat and flavor. Everyone loves a little surprise!
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Cheesy Explosion: Mix different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda with mozzarella and ricotta for a gooey, decadent filling that promises melty goodness in every bite. The more cheese, the merrier!
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Dough Variations: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pizza dough for a healthier or dietary-friendly option that still delivers delicious results without sacrificing taste. Everyone can enjoy their calzone!
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Herbed Delight: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be added to the filling for a burst of freshness and aroma. This addition elevates the flavor profile beautifully, making it reminiscent of summer!
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Pesto Perfection: Swap out marinara for pesto when dipping or even add a spoonful to your filling for a rich and savory herbal note that’ll keep you coming back for more. If you enjoy flavorful sauces, this one will become a favorite!
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Meat Lovers’ Option: Mix several cooked meats, like bacon, ham, and sausage, into your filling. This creates a hearty, meat-loaded calzone that’s perfect for those who love a protein-packed meal.
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Breakfast Calzones: Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and diced veggies or meats for a fun breakfast twist, making these perfect for brunch or a tasty morning treat. Pair it with a fresh fruit salad for a balanced start to your day!
With all these enticing variations, your air fryer calzones can truly shine in every way!
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Calzones are perfect for busy weeknights and can save you valuable time! You can prepare the filling (ricotta, mozzarella, meats, and spices) up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can also roll out the dough circles ahead of time; just layer them between parchment paper to prevent sticking and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To maintain the quality, be sure to keep everything well-sealed to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy your calzones, simply fill, fold, and air fry them, ensuring a quick meal that’s just as delicious as fresh!
What to Serve with Easy Homemade Air Fryer Calzones
Indulging in delicious calzones is just the beginning; pairing them with complementary sides completes your cozy meal.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor adds a rich touch, perfect for scooping into marinara sauce.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A light and zesty mix of greens and vinaigrette balances the warm, cheesy calzones, adding a crisp texture.
- Roasted Veggies: Colorful roasted vegetables bring a sweet and smoky flavor, enhancing your calzones’ savory taste and adding nutrition.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy and seasoned, these hearty potatoes add comfort and a satisfying crunch alongside your calzones.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites filled with cheese and herbs elevate your meal’s gourmet flavor while keeping it casual.
- Stuffed Peppers: Bright bell peppers filled with rice and spices complement the calzones beautifully, offering colorful presentation and delightful flavor contrasts.
- Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the overall dining experience and provides a refreshing sip.
- Tiramisu: This classic Italian dessert with creamy layers and coffee flavor rounds out the meal perfectly for those with a sweet tooth.
With these delightful sides, your Easy Homemade Air Fryer Calzones become part of a truly comforting and satisfying feast!
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Calzones
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Seal Edges Well: Ensure you pinch or crimp the edges tightly to prevent any filling from leaking during the cooking process.
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Watch Cooking Time: Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer’s size; smaller batches may require less time, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
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Achieve Perfect Color: Brushing the tops with beaten egg not only enhances the appearance but also offers a beautifully golden finish to your calzones.
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Customization is Key: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on tastes; adding extra veggies or changing up the meats in your Air Fryer Calzones can lead to exciting new flavors.
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Avoid Crowding: Air fry in a single layer and don’t overcrowd the basket to ensure even cooking and that delightful crispiness on all sides.
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Calzones
Fridge: Keep leftover Air Fryer Calzones in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This preserves their flavor and texture for your next snack or meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze calzones in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months, making meal prep a breeze!
Reheating: To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This helps regain the crispiness while warming the cheesy filling.
Air Fryer Calzones Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right pizza dough for air fryer calzones?
Absolutely! When choosing pizza dough, opt for store-bought for convenience, or make your own for a personal touch. If using homemade, ensure it’s well-kneaded and allowed to rest for at least 30 minutes. This helps the dough stretch without tearing, allowing you to create calzones with ease.
How should I store leftover calzones?
Very! Keep leftover Air Fryer Calzones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This method keeps them fresh while preventing them from drying out. You can reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain their delicious crispiness.
Can I freeze air fryer calzones?
Definitely! To freeze, allow the cooked calzones to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Lay them flat in a single layer to avoid sticking, and they can last up to 2 months. When ready to eat, just pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 10-12 minutes until heated through. This will ensure they stay crispy and delightful.
What if my calzones leak during cooking?
Oh no! If you notice leakage, it’s usually due to not sealing the edges tightly enough. In the future, make sure to pinch or crimp the seams thoroughly. If they do leak, don’t worry—just keep an eye on them while they cook, and use a spatula to carefully catch any filling that escapes.
Are these calzones suitable for specific dietary needs?
Yes! You can easily customize Air Fryer Calzones to fit various dietary restrictions. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the meats and add more veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers. Additionally, substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter option, and use gluten-free pizza dough if needed. Feel free to mix ingredients based on dietary preferences!
Can I make these calzones in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the calzones and fill them, then store them in the fridge before air frying. However, it’s best to cook them within 24 hours to maintain that fresh taste and texture. Just remember to brush them with the egg wash just before cooking for that beautiful golden finish!
Cheesy Air Fryer Calzones in Just 20 Minutes!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Dough: Let pizza dough sit at room temperature for 20 minutes or roll out homemade dough to ¼ inch thick.
- Mix Fillings: In a bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, meats, spinach, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Roll Out Dough: Roll out the pizza dough into circles, approximately 6-8 inches in diameter.
- Cut the Dough: Cut round shapes from the rolled-out dough, ensuring uniform sizes.
- Fill the Calzones: Place filling on one half of each dough circle, leaving a margin for sealing.
- Fold and Seal: Fold dough over filling and press edges tightly to seal. Crimp edges to prevent leaking.
- Prepare for Air Frying: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and brush tops with beaten egg.
- Air Fry the Calzones: Cook in a single layer for 10-15 minutes, checking for golden-brown color.
- Cool and Serve: Let cool for a few minutes and serve warm with marinara sauce.
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