Air Fryer Calzones

Air fryer calzones are the perfect twist on your regular pizza night. These warm, crispy pockets of deliciousness are filled with a medley of meats, cheese, and veggies, making them a fun and customizable meal for the whole family. Whether you’re enjoying them for dinner, lunch, or as a savory snack, air fryer calzones offer a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried calzones. Plus, they’re ready in under 30 minutes!

In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about making the perfect air fryer calzones, from ingredient selection to filling ideas and cooking tips. Let’s get started!

What Makes Air Fryer Calzones So Special?

Calzones are essentially folded pizzas that can be filled with a variety of ingredients. When cooked in the air fryer, they achieve a perfectly crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil. The air fryer circulates hot air to cook the dough evenly, resulting in a golden, crispy crust while keeping the fillings inside warm and delicious.

Why Choose Air Fryer Calzones?

• Quick and Easy: No need for traditional ovens or deep fryers. With the air fryer, you can have calzones ready in under 30 minutes!

• Healthier: Air frying uses much less oil compared to deep frying, making it a healthier cooking method while still achieving that crispy texture.

• Customizable: You can fill your calzones with anything you like – from classic pepperoni to vegetarian options. The possibilities are endless!

• Family-Friendly: Making calzones is a fun, interactive activity. Let everyone add their own fillings for a customized meal.

Now, let’s get into the details of how to make these delicious pockets of joy.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Air Fryer Calzones

For a simple yet mouth-watering air fryer calzone, you need just a few ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Dough:

• Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought pizza dough for convenience. If you prefer homemade, go ahead and make your own! Alternatively, gluten-free dough works well if you have dietary preferences.

For the Filling:

• Pizza Sauce: Use your favorite pizza sauce or marinara. You can even try a white sauce for a different twist.

• Cheese: Shredded mozzarella is the most common choice, but you can also add provolone, cheddar, or any cheese you like for extra flavor.

• Meats: Classic fillings include pepperoni and Italian sausage, but feel free to mix in your favorite deli meats, bacon, or even ham.

• Vegetables: Add diced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, spinach, or olives to give your calzones a fresh, flavorful crunch.

• Herbs and Spices: A sprinkle of dried oregano, basil, and garlic powder enhances the flavor of the calzones.

For Cooking:

• Olive Oil Spray: This helps to get a nice, crispy finish on the dough. You can also use non-stick spray if preferred.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Air Fryer Calzones

Follow these easy steps to create your own air fryer calzones. It’s a quick and fun process that’ll have your kitchen smelling amazing in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Pizza Dough

• Divide the Dough: Start by dividing your pizza dough into six equal pieces. If you’re using store-bought dough, it’s likely already in a roll that you can simply cut into portions.

• Flour the Surface: Dust your work surface and hands with flour to prevent the dough from sticking. This is particularly important if you’re working with pizza dough that’s sticky.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

• Shape the Dough: Take each piece of dough and either roll it out with a rolling pin or stretch it with your hands until it reaches about 6 inches in diameter. You want the dough to be big enough to hold your fillings, but not too thick that it becomes difficult to fold.

Step 3: Add the Fillings

• Layer with Sauce: Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce on the dough, leaving a border around the edges. Be careful not to overfill, as the dough needs to fold easily and seal tightly.

• Add Cheese and Fillings: Add a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese. Then layer on your preferred meats, vegetables, and seasonings. Feel free to get creative with the ingredients!

Step 4: Fold and Seal the Calzone

• Fold the Dough: Carefully fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together with your fingers to seal them.

• Use a Fork: For an extra secure seal, use a fork to crimp the edges. This not only helps keep the filling inside but also gives your calzone a pretty, professional look.

Step 5: Air Fry the Calzones

• Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.

• Spray with Olive Oil: Lightly spray the calzones with olive oil to help them crisp up during cooking.

• Cook the Calzones: Place the calzones in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the calzones are golden brown and crispy.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Calzones

Achieving the perfect calzone in your air fryer is easier than you think, but there are a few important tips to keep in mind to ensure the best results. Follow these expert tips for flawless calzones every time.

Tip 1: Don’t Overfill the Calzones

While it might be tempting to load up your calzones with extra cheese and fillings, be careful not to overstuff them. Overfilled calzones can become difficult to seal and may leak during cooking, making a mess in your air fryer. A generous but controlled amount of filling ensures they cook evenly and stay intact.

Tip 2: Seal the Edges Well

A well-sealed calzone is key to keeping your fillings inside while they cook. Press the edges of the dough firmly with your fingers, and crimp with a fork to create a tight seal. If the edges aren’t sealed properly, the filling could spill out during cooking, and you’ll miss out on that perfect cheesy bite.

Tip 3: Air Fry in Batches if Necessary

Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the calzones in batches. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can prevent the air from circulating evenly, leading to unevenly cooked calzones. If you have a smaller air fryer, cook the calzones in two or more batches and keep the finished ones warm in the oven.

Tip 4: Use Parchment Paper or a Silicone Mat

To prevent the calzones from sticking to the air fryer basket, you can use parchment paper or a silicone mat. Cut the paper or mat to fit the bottom of your basket. This step also makes cleanup easier, as the calzones will not stick to the basket’s surface.

Tip 5: Adjust Cooking Time Based on Size

If you’ve made larger calzones, you may need to adjust the cooking time. Larger calzones may take a bit longer to cook through, so check them at the 8-minute mark and add a couple of extra minutes if needed. Smaller calzones will cook faster, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.

Customizing Your Air Fryer Calzones

One of the best things about air fryer calzones is how customizable they are. You can fill them with whatever ingredients you have on hand or cater them to your family’s preferences. Here are a few ideas for different fillings and variations:

1. Classic Pepperoni and Cheese

For a traditional calzone, simply add sliced pepperoni and shredded mozzarella cheese. You can also add a bit of Italian seasoning or basil for extra flavor.

2. Veggie Delight

For a vegetarian calzone, fill it with a combination of sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, spinach, and mozzarella. You can also add ricotta cheese for extra creaminess.

3. Meat Lovers

If you love a hearty calzone, go for a meat-packed filling with pepperoni, Italian sausage, ham, and bacon. Add some mozzarella and a sprinkle of garlic for a savory flavor.

4. Chicken Alfredo

For a creamy, rich twist, use grilled chicken, alfredo sauce, and mozzarella cheese as your filling. This variation is perfect if you’re craving something indulgent and different.

5. Buffalo Chicken

Spice things up with a buffalo chicken filling. Combine cooked, shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, and add some blue cheese crumbles and mozzarella for a tangy, spicy calzone.

6. BBQ Chicken

BBQ chicken calzones are a crowd-pleaser. Mix cooked chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce and top it with cheddar cheese and red onions for a smoky flavor.

7. Breakfast Calzone

For a breakfast twist, use scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, and cheese as your filling. This makes a hearty and satisfying meal to start your day.

How to Serve Air Fryer Calzones

Air fryer calzones are delicious on their own, but there are several ways to serve them to enhance the meal. Here are some great ideas for serving your calzones:

1. Dipping Sauces

Serve your calzones with a variety of dipping sauces. Here are some options:

• Marinara Sauce: Classic pizza sauce that complements the cheesy filling.

• Ranch Dressing: Perfect for those who enjoy a creamy dip.

• Garlic Butter: For a rich, savory dip.

• Pesto: Adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor.

• Buffalo Sauce: If you’re serving buffalo chicken calzones, this is a great option.

2. Salads

Pair your calzones with a refreshing salad. A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is a perfect contrast to the richness of the calzones.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers make a great side dish to complement your air fryer calzones. The slight char from roasting balances the richness of the calzones.

4. Garlic Bread

For a true pizza night experience, serve your calzones with some crispy garlic bread. It’s the perfect addition to dip in sauce or enjoy on the side.

Storing and Reheating Air Fryer Calzones

If you happen to have leftover calzones, you can store and reheat them for later. Here’s how:

Storing Leftover Calzones

• In the Fridge: Once cooled, store any leftover calzones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

• In the Freezer: To store for longer, freeze the calzones. Wrap each calzone tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Calzones

• In the Air Fryer: To reheat your leftover calzones, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.

• In the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the calzones on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, until crispy and heated through.

Nutritional Breakdown of Air Fryer Calzones

Knowing the nutritional information of your favorite dishes helps you make informed choices, especially if you’re keeping an eye on your calorie intake. Below is the nutritional breakdown for air fryer calzones, which are surprisingly healthy for such a delicious, comforting meal.

Nutritional Considerations:

• Calories: Each calzone contains 522 kcal, making it a filling meal. If you’re watching your calorie intake, consider adjusting the size of your portions.

• Protein: With 22g of protein per serving, air fryer calzones provide a decent amount of protein, especially when filled with ingredients like sausage and pepperoni.

• Fat: The fat content is higher due to the cheese and the olive oil used in cooking, but you can reduce the amount of oil to make a lighter version.

• Sodium: With 1580 mg of sodium, these calzones are on the higher end of the sodium scale. To reduce sodium, opt for a lower-sodium pizza sauce and limit the use of processed meats like pepperoni.

Making Air Fryer Calzones Gluten-Free

If you or someone in your family follows a gluten-free diet, there’s good news! You can easily make gluten-free air fryer calzones without sacrificing flavor or texture. Here’s how to make the recipe gluten-free:

• Use Gluten-Free Pizza Dough: Many grocery stores offer gluten-free pizza dough, either in the refrigerated or frozen sections. Just make sure to thaw or refrigerate it according to the package instructions.

• Substitute Fillings: Most of the fillings in air fryer calzones are naturally gluten-free, such as cheese, meats, and vegetables. However, always double-check labels, especially for processed items like sausages or pizza sauce.

• Preheat the Dough: Gluten-free dough can sometimes be a bit more delicate than regular dough. Be sure to handle it gently and keep it well-floured while rolling to prevent it from tearing.

Calzones for Every Occasion

Air fryer calzones are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed for a variety of occasions. Whether it’s a casual dinner with family, a quick lunch, or a snack to serve at a party, calzones are the perfect choice. Here are a few ways you can incorporate them into your meals:

1. Game Day Treat

Calzones make for great snacks when watching the big game. You can serve them with an array of dipping sauces to keep everyone satisfied during halftime.

2. Lunchbox Meal

If you’re packing lunch for the kids, these calzones are the perfect choice. You can even prepare them the night before and reheat them in the air fryer for a hot, fresh lunch.

3. Party Food

Air fryer calzones are excellent for parties, as they are easy to make in batches and serve to a crowd. Make a variety of fillings to cater to different tastes, and offer a selection of dips.

4. Weeknight Dinner

On busy weeknights, air fryer calzones are a life-saver. They cook quickly, and you can customize them with whatever ingredients you have on hand. A perfect family-friendly meal in no time.

Air Fryer Calzones Recipe Card

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)

For the Filling:

• 1 cup pizza sauce (plus extra for dipping)

• 7 ounces pepperoni (chopped)

• ½ cup diced onion

• ½ cup diced green bell pepper

• 4 ounces Italian sausage (cooked and crumbled)

• 6 ounces mozzarella cheese (shredded)

• Olive oil spray (for greasing)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: Divide the pizza dough into six equal portions. Flour your hands and surface to prevent sticking.

2. Roll Out the Dough: Roll each piece of dough into a circle about 6 inches in diameter.

3. Fill the Dough: Spread pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a border. Layer with pepperoni, onions, bell peppers, sausage, and mozzarella cheese.

4. Fold and Seal: Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press and seal the edges using your fingers or a fork.

5. Cook in Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (190°C). Lightly spray both sides of the calzones with olive oil spray. Place them in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

6. Serve: Remove the calzones from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving with dipping sauces.

Notes

• Dough: You can use store-bought dough for convenience or make your own if you prefer.

• Overstuffing: Be careful not to overfill the calzones to ensure they seal properly and cook evenly.

• Batches: If using a small air fryer, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding and uneven cooking.

• Storage: Leftover calzones can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 5-7 minutes at 350°F.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, approx.)

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

• Method: Air Frying

• Cuisine: American, Italian

• Servings: 6 calzones

• Calories per Serving: 522 kcal

• Yield: 6 calzones