Air fryer calzones are a delightful twist on a family favorite. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these little pockets are filled with gooey cheese and savory pepperoni. They make for a fun and easy meal, perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy gathering with friends.

Why You Will Love This Air Fryer Calzones

These calzones are incredibly easy to throw together, making them a perfect choice for busy families. You’ll love how quickly they cook up in the air fryer, turning golden brown and crispy in just minutes. Plus, the ingredients are simple and often already in your kitchen, ensuring a stress-free cooking experience that everyone will enjoy.

How to Make Air Fryer Calzones

Making calzones is simple and straightforward. First, you’ll roll out your pizza dough and shape it into circles. Then, fill half of each circle with cheese and pepperoni, fold them over, and seal. A quick brush of olive oil and a sprinkle of seasoning give them a delicious finish before cooking in the air fryer. It’s all about the basics here, and you’ll be surprised at how tasty they turn out!

What You Need

Ingredients for Air Fryer Calzones

Pizza dough
Mozzarella cheese
Pepperoni
Olive oil
Italian seasoning

Step-by-Step

Cooking Steps for Air Fryer Calzones

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the pizza dough and cut it into circles.
Place a slice of mozzarella cheese and some pepperoni on one half of each circle.
Fold the dough over to create a calzone, sealing the edges with a fork.
Brush the calzones with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
Place the calzones in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Cook for 6-8 minutes or until golden brown.
Let them cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Air Fryer Calzones

These calzones are tasty on their own, but they shine with a few sides. You can serve them with a simple salad or marinara sauce for dipping. They make great party food or a kid-friendly dinner option. Don’t forget a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for those who like a little kick!

How to Store Air Fryer Calzones

If you have leftovers, let them cool down before storing them. Place them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to a month. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes until warm and crispy again.

Recipe Tips for Air Fryer Calzones

Make sure to seal the edges tightly to prevent filling from leaking out.
You can add some veggies like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor.
Brush with garlic butter instead of olive oil for a richer taste.
Cooking time may vary based on your air fryer, so check them a minute or two early.
If you prefer a thicker calzone, don’t stretch the dough too thin when rolling it out.

Variations & Swaps

Swap the pepperoni for cooked sausage or veggies for a different flavor profile.
Use ricotta cheese mixed with spinach for a creamy and delicious filling.
Try BBQ chicken instead of traditional fillings for a fun twist.
You can make them mini-sized for a fun appetizer or snack.

FAQs

Can I make calzones ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the calzones in advance. Assemble them, then store them in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. This makes it easy to enjoy them fresh without much fuss at mealtime.

How do I freeze calzones?

To freeze them, let the calzones cool completely after cooking. Then, place them on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to an airtight freezer bag. They can last up to a month in the freezer and be reheated straight from frozen.

What is the best way to reheat leftover calzones?

Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to get them crispy again. You can also use the oven to reheat them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Absolutely! Store-bought dough is a great shortcut to make this recipe even easier. Just make sure to follow the package instructions on thawing if it’s frozen.

What should I do if my calzones leak during cooking?

If your calzones leak, they might not have been sealed tightly. For next time, press down firmly on the edges to ensure they stay closed. You can also try using a bit of water to help seal them better.