Air Fryer Calzones: Deliciously Easy Recipe for a Perfect Snack

Air Fryer Calzones: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Favorite

Air Fryer Calzones are not just a meal; they are a delightful experience that brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. Imagine biting into a golden, crispy crust that encases a warm, gooey filling of cheese, meats, and vegetables. This dish has its roots in traditional Italian cuisine, where calzones were originally created as a portable version of pizza, perfect for enjoying on the go. Over the years, they have evolved into a beloved comfort food, and with the advent of the air fryer, making them has never been easier!

People love Air Fryer Calzones for their incredible taste and texture. The air fryer gives them that perfect crunch while keeping the inside soft and flavorful. Plus, they are incredibly convenient to prepare, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Whether you’re a fan of classic pepperoni or prefer a veggie-packed option, these calzones can be customized to suit any palate. Join me as we dive into this scrumptious recipe that will surely become a staple in your home!

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Ingredients:

• 1 package (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled Italian sausage (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped spinach (fresh or frozen, thawed and drained)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)

Preparing the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until well mixed.
2. If you’re using Italian sausage, add the cooked and crumbled sausage to the cheese mixture.
3. Add the chopped spinach, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Mix everything together until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
4. Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Set the filling aside while you prepare the dough.

Preparing the Dough

1. On a clean, floured surface, roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour on the surface and on the dough.
2. Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, cut the dough into circles or squares, approximately 6 inches in diameter. You should be able to get about 4-6 pieces, depending on how large you cut them.
3. Once you have your dough pieces ready, take a spoonful of the filling and place it in the center of each dough piece. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make sealing difficult.

Assembling the Calzones

1. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Make sure the edges align properly.
2. Using your fingers, press the edges together to seal the calzone. For a more secure seal, you can use a fork to crimp the edges.
3. Once all calzones are assembled, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This will make it easier to transfer them to the air fryer later.
4. Brush the tops of the calzones with the beaten egg. This will give them a beautiful golden color when cooked.

Cooking Process

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for ensuring that the calzones cook evenly.
2. Carefully place 2-3 calzones in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching each other. This allows for proper air circulation and even cooking.
3. Cook the calzones in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
4. Once cooked, carefully remove the calzones from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the filling set a bit and make them easier to handle.
5. Repeat the cooking process with the remaining calzones, ensuring to preheat the air fryer again if necessary.

Serving Suggestions

1. Serve the calzones warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. The sauce adds a delicious flavor contrast to the cheesy filling.
2. For a complete meal, consider pairing the calzones with a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables.
3. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.

Tips for Perfect Calzones

• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to customize the filling based on your preferences. You can

  

  Conclusion:

  If you’re looking for a delicious and easy meal that’s sure to impress, then this Air Fryer Calzones recipe is a must-try! Not only are these calzones packed with flavor, but they also offer a healthier alternative to traditional frying, thanks to the air fryer. The crispy, golden crust combined with your choice of savory fillings makes for a delightful dish that can be enjoyed any time of the day. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner, hosting a game day gathering, or simply craving a tasty snack, these calzones are versatile enough to fit any occasion.

  When it comes to serving suggestions, the possibilities are endless! You can pair your Air Fryer Calzones with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, which adds an extra layer of flavor. A fresh salad or a side of roasted vegetables can complement the meal beautifully, making it a well-rounded dining experience. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top for an added kick.

  For those who love to experiment in the kitchen, there are plenty of variations you can try. Feel free to switch up the fillings based on your preferences or what you have on hand. You can use classic ingredients like pepperoni, mozzarella, and ricotta, or get creative with options like spinach and feta, BBQ chicken, or even a breakfast calzone filled with scrambled eggs and cheese. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s incredibly adaptable, allowing you to customize each calzone to suit your taste.

  I encourage you to give this Air Fryer Calzones recipe a shot! It’s not only simple to make but also a fun way to involve the whole family in the cooking process. Kids can help with filling and folding the calzones, making it a great bonding activity. Once you’ve made your calzones, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, variations, and any tips you discover along the way.

  So, gather your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Trust me, once you try these Air Fryer Calzones, you’ll be hooked! Happy cooking!

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  Air Fryer Calzones: Deliciously Easy Recipe for a Perfect Snack

  These air fryer calzones are a delightful treat, featuring a creamy filling of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, along with savory Italian sausage and fresh spinach. Golden and crispy, they are perfect as an appetizer or main dish, especially when paired with marinara sauce for dipping.

  Prep Time20 minutes

  Cook Time12 minutes

  Total Time32 minutes

  Category: Easy Lunch

  Yield: 4-6 calzones

  Save This Recipe

  Ingredients

  • 1 package (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled Italian sausage (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chopped spinach (fresh or frozen, thawed and drained)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)

  Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until well mixed.
  2. If you’re using Italian sausage, add the cooked and crumbled sausage to the cheese mixture.
  3. Add the chopped spinach, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Mix everything together until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  4. Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Set the filling aside while you prepare the dough.
  5. On a clean, floured surface, roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour on the surface and on the dough.
  6. Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, cut the dough into circles or squares, approximately 6 inches in diameter. You should be able to get about 4-6 pieces, depending on how large you cut them.
  7. Once you have your dough pieces ready, take a spoonful of the filling and place it in the center of each dough piece. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make sealing difficult.
  8. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Make sure the edges align properly.
  9. Using your fingers, press the edges together to seal the calzone. For a more secure seal, you can use a fork to crimp the edges.
  10. Once all calzones are assembled, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This will make it easier to transfer them to the air fryer later.
  11. Brush the tops of the calzones with the beaten egg. This will give them a beautiful golden color when cooked.
  12. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for ensuring that the calzones cook evenly.
  13. Carefully place 2-3 calzones in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching each other. This allows for proper air circulation and even cooking.
  14. Cook the calzones in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
  15. Once cooked, carefully remove the calzones from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the filling set a bit and make them easier to handle.
  16. Repeat the cooking process with the remaining calzones, ensuring to preheat the air fryer again if necessary.
  17. Serve the calzones warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. The sauce adds a delicious flavor contrast to the cheesy filling.
  18. For a complete meal, consider pairing the calzones with a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables.
  19. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.

  Notes

  • Feel free to customize the filling based on your preferences. You can add other vegetables, different types of cheese, or even pepperoni for a classic twist.