© Original recipe by The Culinary Delight ©
🔥🧀 Easy Air Fryer Calzones for Quick Dinner 🍕
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a warm, cheesy, and perfectly crispy dinner, nothing beats homemade calzones. These air fryer calzones are your answer for a quick, satisfying meal that comes together faster than traditional baking. The beauty of this easy calzone recipe lies in their convenience and flavor. You get that irresistible gooey cheese, savory fillings, and crispy exterior — all in a fraction of the time you’d expect, thanks to the magic of your air fryer. Whether you’re pressed for time or simply love the idea of customizing each calzone, this recipe is a game-changer.
2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-pot cooking — minimal cleanup afterward.
- Customizable fillings — from classic pepperoni to veggie-packed delights.
- Healthy cooking method — less oil needed compared to deep-frying.
- Versatile and portable — ideal for family dinners or meal prep for the week.
3. Ingredient Notes
When it comes to homemade calzones, quality ingredients make all the difference. Use high-quality, fresh mozzarella for that perfect stretch and flavor. For dough, pre-made pizza dough works wonders, but if you prefer homemade, choosing bread flour will give you a chewier, more satisfying crust. For fillings, pick meats like pepperoni or cooked sausage for hearty bites, and load up on fresh vegetables like peppers, spinach, and onions for vibrant flavor. Don’t forget to season generously with herbs like Italian seasoning, and a touch of garlic powder enhances the savory profile. Using fresh ingredients ensures your calzones burst with flavor, giving you a true homemade experience.
4. Kitchen Tools You Need
To achieve the perfect crispy crust and even cooking, a reliable Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics makes all the difference. Its precise temperature control and ample capacity allow you to cook multiple calzones at once without sacrificing that crispy exterior. For rolling out dough and assembling fillings, a good non-stick cookware set is invaluable. These tools streamline your cooking process and help create perfectly golden results every time.
5. How to Make Easy Air Fryer Calzones
Prepare the Dough
Start by rolling out your pizza dough on a floured surface until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to divide the dough into even segments, typically 4-6 based on size. The aroma of freshly rolled dough creates anticipation for what’s to come.
Fill and Seal
Place your desired fillings—like marinara sauce, cheese, pepperoni, or veggies—on one half of each dough circle, leaving about an inch around the edges. Fold the dough over to enclose the fillings, then press and crimp the edges carefully to seal. A crimped edge not only keeps everything contained but also adds a rustic, homemade touch.
Air Frying
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush the calzones with olive oil or cooking spray for an extra crispy finish. Place the calzones in the air fryer basket without overcrowding, then cook for about 8-10 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through to ensure even browning. They should emerge from the air fryer with a golden, crispy crust and bubbling cheesy filling.
6. Expert Tips for Success
For the crispiest crust, ensuring the dough is rolled evenly is key—thicker edges help contain the fillings and prevent leaks. Be generous with sealing, and pressing the edges with a fork adds extra security. Rest the filled calzones for a few minutes before air frying; this allows the gluten to relax, leading to a better seal. Lastly, don’t overload your calzones with fillings; a balanced amount prevents sogginess and ensures a crispy crust.
7. Variations & Substitutions
Looking to adapt this easy calzone recipe? Use gluten-free dough for a celiac-friendly version. Vegan? Swap cheese for plant-based varieties and add roasted vegetables or tofu. For a healthier twist, bake the calzones or try air frying with Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast for minimal oil. The fillings are highly customizable—try spinach and mushrooms or sliced chicken for different flavor profiles.
8. Storage & Reheating
Leftover calzones store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, which can make the crust soggy. For meal prepping, freeze uncooked calzones wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, and bake directly from frozen—just increase cooking time by a few minutes.
9. FAQ
Can I make calzones ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the calzones, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before air frying. Just bring them to room temperature before cooking for best results.
What’s the best cheese for calzones?
Mozzarella is classic for its meltability and gooey texture. For extra flavor, try a blend of mozzarella and provolone or Parmesan. Always opt for freshly grated cheese for the best melt.
Can I use homemade dough instead of store-bought?
Certainly! Homemade dough provides a more authentic flavor and texture. Choose a simple bread or pizza dough recipe and follow the same rolling and filling process.
10. Conclusion
This easy air fryer calzone recipe is your new go-to for a quick, delicious, and customizable dinner. The crispy exterior combined with cheesy, flavorful fillings makes it a family favorite in no time. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create mouthwatering calzones that rival your favorite pizzeria—right at home. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and enjoy a homemade calzone feast tonight!
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Easy Air Fryer Calzones for Quick Dinner
Delicious homemade calzones cooked quickly in the air fryer, filled with cheese, pepperoni, and herbs for a flavorful meal.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 calzones
Ingredients
- 1 package pizza dough
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough and cut into four equal squares.
- Spread cheese and pepperoni on half of each square, then fold over and seal the edges.
- Brush with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Place calzones in the air fryer basket and cook for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- Ensure the edges are sealed tightly to prevent filling from escaping.
- Serve warm with marinara sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian (if using veggie toppings)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 calzone
- Calories: 350 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg