Air Fryer Calzones (Crazy Easy)

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious meal that the whole family will love, look no further than these Air Fryer Calzones (Crazy Easy)! They are gooey on the inside, stuffed with savory turkey pepperoni, and oh-so-simple to whip up. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends, these calzones come together quickly and are sure to impress.

What makes this recipe extra special? It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the joy of cooking something that everyone can enjoy. You can easily customize them based on your family’s preferences. Plus, they make for great leftovers or can be frozen for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have these tasty treats ready in no time!
• Perfect for Kids: The combination of cheese and turkey pepperoni is a hit with little ones. They’ll love helping you make them!
• Versatile Fillings: You can switch up the fillings based on what you have at home. The options are endless!
• Crispy and Gooey: Thanks to the air fryer, you’ll achieve that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside wonderfully gooey.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and pop them in the freezer for quick meals later in the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These air fryer calzones use simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create this delicious dish!

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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up with different ingredients based on your tastes.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or vegetables instead of turkey pepperoni for a different flavor profile.
• Add some veggies: Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms make fantastic additions to your calzone filling.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or cheddar for a unique twist.
• Spice it up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or Italian herbs to give your calzones an extra kick!

How to Make Air Fryer Calzones (Crazy Easy)

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by splitting your pizza dough into four equal pieces. Using your hands, roll each piece out into a circular shape. This step is important because properly shaped dough will help contain all those delicious fillings without leaking during cooking.

Step 2: Add the Sauce

Take a ladle or spoon and spread a generous layer of pizza sauce on half of each dough circle. Be sure to leave those edges clean! This will ensure that when you crimp the edges later, they stick together nicely.

Step 3: Layer Your Fillings

Now comes the fun part! Top your sauce with mozzarella cheese, followed by turkey pepperoni and another layer of cheese. The layers create that gooey goodness we all crave!

Step 4: Fold and Seal

Carefully fold over the clean side of each dough circle to create a half-moon shape. Use your fingers to crimp the edges tightly so that all those tasty fillings stay snug inside during cooking.

Step 5: Air Frying Time

Spray your air fryer basket lightly with oil before placing the calzones inside. Air fry them in batches for about 7-10 minutes at 375°F, turning them halfway through. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn golden brown and crispy—just like pizza should be!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once they’re done cooking, let them cool slightly before serving. These calzones are fantastic on their own but pair beautifully with extra pizza sauce for dipping. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Calzones (Crazy Easy)

Making air fryer calzones is a delightful and easy process, but a few tips can elevate your dish to perfection!

• Use fresh pizza dough – Fresh dough will yield a fluffier texture and enhance the overall flavor of your calzones. You can find pre-made dough at grocery stores or even make it yourself for that homemade touch.
• Don’t overfill – It’s tempting to load up on filling, but too much can lead to messy calzones that leak during cooking. Keep the filling moderate so you can achieve a beautifully sealed and perfectly cooked treat.
• Preheat your air fryer – Just like an oven, preheating helps ensure even cooking and prevents the outside from browning too quickly while the inside remains uncooked. A quick 3-5 minutes of preheating goes a long way!
• Experiment with fillings – While turkey pepperoni is delicious, feel free to get creative! Try adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or switch up the cheese with ricotta for a creamier texture.
• Let them cool briefly before serving – After air frying, let your calzones sit for a couple of minutes. This allows the filling to settle and makes them easier to eat without burning your mouth on hot cheese.

How to Serve Air Fryer Calzones (Crazy Easy)

These air fryer calzones are not only tasty but also visually appealing! Present them in an inviting way for gatherings or family dinners.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves – A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a vibrant color and aromatic flavor that complements the cheesy goodness.
• Parmesan cheese – Grate some Parmesan on top right before serving for an extra touch of savory flavor.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the calzones while adding freshness to your meal.
• Garlic Breadsticks – Perfect for dipping into leftover pizza sauce, these warm breadsticks are always a crowd-pleaser alongside calzones.
• Steamed Veggies – Broccoli or carrots lightly steamed with a sprinkle of salt provide a nutritious contrast and enhance the meal’s visual appeal.

Enjoy these delicious air fryer calzones with friends and family; they’re bound to become a favorite at your dinner table!

Make Ahead and Storage

These air fryer calzones are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them in advance for busy weeknights or fun gatherings with family and friends.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They should last for about 3-4 days, maintaining their deliciousness.
• Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing

• To freeze calzones, allow them to cool completely first.
• Wrap each calzone tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months without sacrificing flavor.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat calzones in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Alternatively, you can use an oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwaving is an option but may result in a softer texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these air fryer calzones.

Can I use different fillings for the Air Fryer Calzones (Crazy Easy)?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your fillings. You can use veggies like spinach or bell peppers, different meats like chicken or turkey, or even cheese blends. The possibilities are endless!

How do I ensure my Air Fryer Calzones (Crazy Easy) cook evenly?

To ensure even cooking, make sure to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. If necessary, cook the calzones in batches and turn them halfway through the cooking time to promote even browning.

Can I make these calzones without turkey pepperoni?

Yes! You can substitute turkey pepperoni with any other protein of your choice or add more vegetables if you’d prefer a vegetarian option.

What dipping sauce pairs well with these calzones?

Pizza sauce is a classic choice, but you can also try ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or even garlic butter for dipping!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy and satisfaction in making these air fryer calzones! They’re not only a fantastic option for quick dinners but also a hit at parties. Whether you’re feeding kids after school or enjoying a cozy night in with loved ones, these cheesy treats are sure to please. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!