Air Fryer Calzones: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for 4 Easy Servings

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to spice up your dinner routine, you’ve come to the right place! These Air Fryer Calzones: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for 4 Easy Servings are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family gathering, these calzones will bring everyone together around the table.

What makes this recipe special is how customizable it is. You can fill them with your favorite ingredients, making each bite a delightful surprise. Plus, air frying gives them that perfect crispy texture without the need for deep frying. Trust me; once you try these calzones, they’ll quickly become a go-to in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have these delicious calzones ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love them! They’re like pizza pockets that everyone can enjoy.
• Customizable Filling: Use whatever ingredients you have on hand; the possibilities are endless!
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare them in advance and air fry them when you’re ready to eat.
• Deliciously Satisfying: The combination of gooey cheese and hearty fillings makes for a comforting meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make our calzones! These items are likely found in your kitchen or easily available at the store.

• 1 package of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup cooked meats (turkey pepperoni, sausage, or chicken), diced
• 1 cup fresh spinach or arugula, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Marinara sauce (for dipping)

Variations

The beauty of these Air Fryer Calzones is their flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you love or have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use different cooked meats like shredded chicken or turkey sausage for variety.
• Go vegetarian: Skip the meat entirely and load up on veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini.
• Change the cheese: Try adding feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
• Add spices: Experiment with Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

How to Make Air Fryer Calzones: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for 4 Easy Servings

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Making Air Fryer Calzones is simple when you follow these steps. If you’re using store-bought pizza dough, let it come to room temperature according to package instructions. If you’re making it from scratch, roll it out into a thin sheet so it’s easier to work with.

Step 2: Mix Fillings

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, cooked meats, spinach, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed. This filling is where all the flavors come together!

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large circle about ¼ inch thick. A thinner dough helps achieve that perfect crispy texture when air-fried.

Step 4: Cut the Dough

Use a pizza cutter or knife to cut the dough into large circles about 6–8 inches in diameter. This size will give you enough space for filling without spilling over.

Step 5: Fill the Calzones

Place a generous scoop of your filling mixture on one half of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill; leave enough space at the edges so you can seal them properly.

Step 6: Fold and Seal

Fold the half without filling over the filled half. Pinch the edges tightly to seal them shut or use a fork to crimp them nicely. Sealing well ensures that all those delicious flavors stay inside during cooking!

Step 7: Prepare for Air Frying

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of each calzone with beaten egg for that beautiful golden finish that makes everything more appetizing.

Step 8: Air Fry the Calzones

Place your calzones in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Depending on your air fryer’s size, you may need to cook them in batches. Air fry for about 10–15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 9: Check for Doneness

Be sure that your filling is bubbly and that the dough looks cooked through as well. If they need more time, don’t hesitate to add an extra couple of minutes until they’re just right!

Step 10: Serve

Let those calzones cool slightly before serving—if you can resist! They are best enjoyed fresh out of the air fryer alongside some warm marinara sauce for dipping.

Now you’re all set! Enjoy creating these amazing Air Fryer Calzones with family and friends—you’ll be glad you did!

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Calzones: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for 4 Easy Servings

Making the perfect calzones is a fun adventure, and these tips will help you achieve delicious results every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach or arugula adds vibrant color and flavor to your filling. The fresher the ingredients, the tastier your calzones will be!
• Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to customize your calzone! You can swap in different cheeses or veggies based on what you have at home, making this recipe versatile and exciting.
• Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to pile on the fillings, keeping them moderate ensures that your calzones seal properly and cook evenly.
• Preheat Your Air Fryer: This step ensures that your calzones start cooking immediately, giving you that golden brown exterior without compromising the filling.
• Let Them Rest: After air frying, let the calzones cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes them easier to handle.

How to Serve Air Fryer Calzones: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for 4 Easy Servings

Presenting your air fryer calzones beautifully can take your meal from good to great! Here are some delightful ideas on how to serve this dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor with its aromatic profile.
• Parmesan Shavings: Lightly grated Parmesan on top adds a gourmet touch and extra richness to each bite.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich calzones.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft garlic breadsticks are perfect for dipping into marinara sauce and complement the flavors of your calzones wonderfully.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add nutrition and color. Think bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus tossed in olive oil and herbs.
• Marinara Sauce: Serve extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Its tangy flavor pairs perfectly with cheesy calzones!

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Air Fryer Calzones will not only taste incredible but also look appealing on the plate. Enjoy this cozy meal with family or friends, and don’t forget to share your creations!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Air Fryer Calzones are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch at the beginning of the week to have delicious, easy dinners ready when you need them. Here’s how to store and preserve your calzones for maximum flavor.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the calzones to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container or wrap individually in plastic wrap.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the calzones are fully cooled.
• Wrap each calzone tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can use an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for around 10-12 minutes.
• Microwave reheating is possible but may make the dough less crispy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Air Fryer Calzones.

Can I customize my Air Fryer Calzones?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile. You can swap out the meats or add different vegetables based on your preference. Just be mindful of keeping a balance between wet and dry ingredients to maintain texture.

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

Your Air Fryer Calzones are done when they are golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If unsure, you can check with a meat thermometer; it should read at least 165°F (74°C).

What dipping sauces pair well with Air Fryer Calzones?

Marinara sauce is traditional, but feel free to experiment! Garlic aioli, pesto, or even a spicy ranch dressing can elevate your calzone experience.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Air Fryer Calzones as much as I do! They’re not only quick and easy but also packed with flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or meal prep for busy weekdays, these calzones will surely become a favorite. So roll up your sleeves and give this incredible recipe a try—you won’t regret it! Happy cooking!