Oh boy, let me tell you about my absolute obsession with Air Fryer Calzones! If you’ve ever had pizza and thought, “Hmm, I would love this in a pocket,” then you’re in for a treat. Growing up, our family would often experiment with different fillings, and I vividly remember those Friday nights when we would gather in the kitchen, laughing and stuffing dough with everything from pepperoni and cheese to mushrooms and spinach. There’s something so comforting and satisfying about biting into a warm, flaky calzone filled to the brim with gooey goodness.
The beauty of making calzones in the air fryer is that they come out beautifully golden and crispy without all the hassle of deep-frying. Plus, they’re versatile—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun party appetizer. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into making these delicious pockets of joy!
What’s in Air Fryer Calzones?
Pizza Dough: The star of the show! You can either use store-bought dough for convenience or make your own from scratch if you’re feeling adventurous. I love classic pizza dough, but whole-wheat versions or gluten-free dough work wonders too!
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese gives a rich texture to your calzone. It’s my secret ingredient because it complements the other fillings so well. You can also mix it with a bit of garlic and herbs for added flavor!
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Essential for that melty, stretchy goodness we adore in any cheesy dish. I usually go for whole milk mozzarella for the best results.
Fillings: This is where your creativity can shine! I typically use pepperoni and bell peppers, but feel free to add spinach, mushrooms, sausage, or even artichokes. The sky’s the limit!
Marinara Sauce: Essential for dipping, this adds a lovely tangy flavor to each bite. I suggest either homemade or your favorite jarred sauce.
Is Air Fryer Calzones Good for You?
You might be wondering if indulging in calzones is a guilt-free experience, and honestly, it can be! Here’s the lowdown:
Pizza Dough: When made from whole grains, it can provide fiber and nutrients. Just watch out for overly processed versions that can spike your blood sugar.
Cheeses: While cheese is a good source of calcium and protein, moderation is key. Opting for lower-fat cheese options can cut down on calories and saturated fat.
Fillings: By loading your calzone with veggies and lean proteins, you can create a balanced meal that satisfies without going overboard.
So, of course, enjoy in moderation, but feel free to make them as wholesome as you want!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Calzones:
– Pizza dough (1 pound, store-bought or homemade)
– Ricotta cheese (1 cup)
– Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 ½ cups)
– Fillings of choice (pepperoni, bell peppers, spinach, etc. – about 1 cup total)
– Marinara sauce (for dipping, optional)
– Olive oil (for brushing)
– Salt and pepper (to taste)
Serves: 4
How to Make Air Fryer Calzones?
1. **Prepare the Dough:** If you’re using store-bought dough, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling it out. If making your dough, roll it out into a circle about 1/4 inch thick.
2. **Mix the Stuffing:** In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, and your choice of fillings. Season with salt and pepper.
3. **Assemble the Calzones:** Take your rolled dough and cut it into your desired size (I typically go for about 6 inches in diameter). Place a generous scoop of the filling on one half of the dough circle, leaving space around the edges. Fold the other half over and pinch the edges to seal well.
4. **Prepare for Air Frying:** Brush the outside of each calzone with olive oil to help it turn golden brown. You can also sprinkle a little garlic powder or Italian herbs on top for extra flavor!
5. **Air Fry the Calzones:** Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Place the calzones in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch. Air fry for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through until they’re golden brown.
6. **Serve:** Remove the calzones from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute. Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Calzone Crafting Secrets!
– **Dough Variations:** You can use puff pastry for an extra flaky version or whole-wheat dough for a healthier option.
– **Freezing:** These calzones freeze beautifully! Just prepare them until they’re ready to go in the air fryer, then freeze. When you’re ready to eat, air fry them from frozen, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.
– **Creative Fillings:** Don’t hesitate to try dessert calzones with Nutella and banana or apple pie filling – they’re a hit!
I hope you give these Air Fryer Calzones a try! They are not only easy to make but also an avenue for creativity in the kitchen. I can’t wait to hear your experiences and any unique combinations you come up with. Happy cooking!
