Air Fryer Calzones Recipe

If you’re craving a warm, cheesy, and perfectly crispy bite of Italian comfort food, look no further than these amazing Air Fryer Calzones. This recipe takes classic calzones to a whole new level by using the air fryer to achieve a golden, flaky crust without heating up your entire kitchen. Filled with a luscious blend of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, savory meats, and fresh greens, these handheld delights are not only delicious but also incredibly quick and easy to prepare. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or just in the mood for a cozy treat, Air Fryer Calzones are about to become your new favorite go-to.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with Air Fryer Calzones is a breeze because the ingredients are simple, yet they each play a crucial role in bringing out the perfect combination of flavor, texture, and color. From the tender pizza dough to the creamy cheese blend and savory meats, every component elevates the dish.

• Pizza dough: Whether store-bought or homemade, this forms the sturdy yet soft shell that holds all the tasty fillings.
• Ricotta cheese: Adds a creamy, mild richness that balances the stronger cheeses perfectly.
• Mozzarella cheese: Offers that gooey, melty texture everyone loves in a calzone.
• Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty kick to deepen the flavor profile.
• Cooked meats: Pepperoni, sausage, or chicken diced finely to add savory, hearty bites inside your calzones.
• Fresh spinach or arugula: Adds a nice pop of green and a hint of peppery freshness to cut through the richness.
• Dried oregano: Gives that quintessential Italian herb note to tie all the fillings together.
• Garlic powder: Boosts the umami and warmth without overwhelming the other flavors.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the ingredients.
• Egg: Used for the egg wash to create a beautifully golden crust after air frying.
• Marinara sauce: The perfect tangy dip to serve alongside your calzones.

How to Make Air Fryer Calzones

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by bringing your pizza dough to room temperature if you’re using store-bought. This makes it easier to roll out and handle without tearing. If you have homemade dough ready, roll it out gently on a floured surface until it reaches about ¼ inch thickness, which ensures a nice balance between flaky and sturdy.

Step 2: Mix the Fillings

In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, diced cooked meats, chopped spinach or arugula, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well blended. This mixture should be flavorful and cohesive, giving every bite savory, cheesy goodness with a little fresh crunch from the greens.

Step 3: Cut and Fill the Dough

Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, cut your rolled-out dough into circles about 6-8 inches in diameter — this size holds a generous filling without being unwieldy. Then, carefully spoon a hearty scoop of your filling onto one half of each dough circle, making sure to leave enough space around the edge for sealing.

Step 4: Fold and Seal

Fold the dough over the filled side to create a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges to seal them tightly; you can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch and to ensure the filling stays inside during air frying.

Step 5: Prepare and Air Fry

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Give each calzone a light brush of beaten egg on the outside to encourage a golden, shiny crust. Place calzones in the air fryer basket in a single layer — you might need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your basket. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, turning halfway if your air fryer requires it, until the calzones are golden brown and the fillings are bubbly and hot inside.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Give your Air Fryer Calzones a few minutes to cool down just enough so that you don’t burn your mouth but still enjoy them warm. The crust should be crisp on the outside while the inside remains melty and satisfying. Serve them up with plenty of marinara sauce for dipping and watch everyone’s eyes light up with delight!

How to Serve Air Fryer Calzones

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley over your calzones just before serving to introduce a burst of herbal brightness. A dash of red pepper flakes can also add a subtle kick for those who like a little heat.

Side Dishes

For a well-rounded meal, serve Air Fryer Calzones alongside a crisp green salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette or a simple Caesar salad. Roasted vegetables or a light soup also complement these calzones beautifully, balancing the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the calzones into smaller wedges for a shareable appetizer platter alongside an array of dipping sauces like garlic butter, ranch, or spicy arrabbiata. You can also present them stacked on a wooden board for a rustic, inviting feel that screams cozy and casual.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Air Fryer Calzones, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days — perfect for a quick snack or a speedy lunch.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked calzones by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer and popping them in the freezer until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can air fry them straight from frozen, adding a few more minutes to the cooking time for a convenient, ready-to-go meal anytime.

Reheating

To reheat cooked calzones, the air fryer works wonderfully again — just pop them in for 3-5 minutes at 350°F to refresh the crispiness without drying out the filling. Alternatively, a quick microwave zap followed by a toast in a hot skillet can also revive that perfect texture.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free pizza dough for these Air Fryer Calzones?

Absolutely! Gluten-free dough works well but be mindful it might be more delicate, so handle it gently when rolling and folding. The air fryer will still crisp it up nicely.

What kind of meats work best in Air Fryer Calzones?

Cooked and diced pepperoni, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken are all fantastic choices. You can also mix and match or skip the meat for a vegetarian option.

Can I make these calzones vegan?

Yes, swap the cheeses for vegan alternatives and use plant-based meats or mushrooms for the filling. Also, replace the egg wash with a little olive oil or plant milk.

How crispy will the crust be using an air fryer?

The air fryer creates a beautifully crisp exterior that rivals traditional oven-baked calzones, with less oil and quicker cooking times.

Is it necessary to use an egg wash on the calzones?

The egg wash is not required but highly recommended because it helps the crust develop that appetizing golden color and slight sheen, making them look as good as they taste.

Final Thoughts

Jumping into the world of Air Fryer Calzones is one of the best decisions you can make for your mealtime rotation. They combine convenience, incredible flavor, and that unbeatable texture we all crave from classic calzones. Give this recipe a try, and I promise you’ll soon be sharing it with friends and family as your secret weapon for quick and delicious comfort food. Happy air frying!

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