Air Fryer Calzones (Crazy Easy)

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious dinner that the whole family will love, these Air Fryer Calzones (Crazy Easy) are just what you need! I can’t tell you how many busy weeknights and kids’ parties have been saved by this simple recipe. With gooey cheese and savory turkey pepperoni tucked inside perfectly golden crusts, they’re a hit every time. Plus, they’re so quick to whip up that you might find yourself making them on repeat!

These calzones are not just tasty; they’re versatile too! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these air fryer delights fit the bill perfectly. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into this crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Quick to Make: You can have these calzones ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for those hectic weeknights.
• Kids Love Them: Gooey cheese and savory filling make these calzones irresistible to little ones and grown-ups alike!
• Customizable: You can easily switch up the fillings to suit your family’s taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Crispy Outside, Gooey Inside: The air fryer gives them that delightful crunch while keeping the insides warm and cheesy!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These calzones can be made ahead of time and frozen for future meals—just pop them in the air fryer when you’re ready to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delicious Air Fryer Calzones (Crazy Easy), you’ll use some simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

Variations

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are a few tasty ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try swapping out turkey pepperoni with chicken sausage or even veggies for a meatless option.
• Experiment with cheese: Use different cheeses like cheddar or provolone for unique flavors.
• Add veggies: Sneak in some spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Try different sauces: Instead of pizza sauce, use pesto or ranch dressing as a base for a fun twist!

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 pizza shape. This gives you enough space for all those delicious fillings! Remember to keep it even so they cook uniformly.

Step 2: Add the Sauce

Using a ladle or spoon, spread the pizza sauce on half of each dough circle. Make sure to leave those edges clear; we want them clean for sealing later!

Step 3: Layer on the Goodness

Top that sauce with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella followed by turkey pepperoni and then another layer of cheese. This double cheese trick ensures every bite is extra gooey and satisfying!

Step 4: Seal It Up

Fold over the clean side of the dough to create a half-circle shape. Crimp those edges with your fingers to seal everything inside. This step is crucial—no one likes a leaky calzone!

Step 5: Air Frying Time!

Spray your air fryer basket with oil before placing the calzone inside. It helps them get that beautiful golden color! Air fry in batches at 375°F for about 7-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Keep an eye on them; once they’re golden brown, they’re ready to devour.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Once cooked, take them out and let them cool slightly before digging in. Trust me; you’ll want to savor every cheesy bite! Enjoy your homemade Air Fryer Calzones (Crazy Easy) with extra pizza sauce on the side for dipping if you like!

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Calzones (Crazy Easy)

Making calzones in your air fryer is a fun and uncomplicated process that can lead to delicious results! Here are some tips to help you achieve the best calzones possible:

• Use Fresh Pizza Dough: Fresh dough will give you the best texture and flavor. Look for pre-made dough in your grocery store or make your own for an extra special touch.

• Don’t Overfill: It’s tempting to load up on filling, but too much can cause them to burst. A moderate amount of filling ensures they cook evenly and maintain their shape.

• Seal Edges Well: Crimping the edges not only keeps the filling secure but also helps create a nice, crispy crust. Take your time with this step for better results!

• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheating helps achieve that perfectly golden exterior while ensuring the inside cooks through evenly. Just a few minutes of preheating can make a world of difference.

• Experiment with Fillings: While turkey pepperoni is delicious, don’t hesitate to mix things up! Try adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or use different types of cheese for a unique twist.

How to Serve Air Fryer Calzones (Crazy Easy)

These air fryer calzones not only taste amazing but also look fantastic when served! Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation and experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil adds a burst of color and flavor, enhancing the Italian vibe of the dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: A light dusting of grated Parmesan can complement the cheesy goodness inside while adding a delightful savory note.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a variety of greens dressed in olive oil and lemon balances out the richness of the calzones.

• Garlic Breadsticks: These soft, buttery breadsticks are perfect for dipping in any leftover pizza sauce, making them a great companion for your meal.

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies add nutrition and flavor to your plate, creating a wholesome dining experience.

• Antipasto Platter: Include olives, marinated artichokes, and cherry tomatoes on a platter for an appetizer that complements the Italian theme beautifully.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’ll be well on your way to impressing family and friends with your scrumptious air fryer calzones! Enjoy every gooey bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These air fryer calzones are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time and have a delicious, quick meal ready when you need it. Here’s how to store them properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• To maintain their texture, avoid stacking them directly on top of each other.

Freezing

• Allow the calzones to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each calzone tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat calzones in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can use a microwave; just be aware that this may make the dough softer.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Air Fryer Calzones (Crazy Easy):

Can I use store-bought pizza dough for Air Fryer Calzones (Crazy Easy)?

Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough is a fantastic option that saves time and makes this recipe even easier. Just follow the same steps for rolling and filling.

What other fillings can I use for my Air Fryer Calzones?

Feel free to get creative! You can use veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, different types of cheese, or even cooked chicken or turkey—whatever you enjoy!

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

Your calzones are ready when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. A good rule of thumb is to check them around the 7-minute mark and turn them halfway through cooking.

Can these Air Fryer Calzones be made vegetarian?

Definitely! Just skip the turkey pepperoni and add your favorite vegetables or even some additional cheese for a delicious vegetarian option.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about these Air Fryer Calzones as I am! They’re not only fun to make but also incredibly satisfying with their gooey fillings. Whether you’re preparing them for a family dinner or a kids’ party, I’m sure they’ll be a hit. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t forget to share your creations with loved ones!