There’s a certain joy that fills the kitchen when the air fryer starts working its magic, and the aroma of melted cheese begins to waft through the air. My love for homemade comfort food led me to create these Air Fryer Calzones, a delightful twist on the classic Italian favorite that can be ready in just 25 minutes!
This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying but easy to whip up. With gooey ricotta and mozzarella encasing your choice of savory fillings, each calzone is a pocket of happiness just waiting to be dipped in warm marinara sauce. Whether you’re cooking for one or treating a group, these crowd-pleasers are sure to brighten everyone’s evening. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into making these irresistible calzones that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Air Fryer Calzones
- These Air Fryer Calzones are a breeze to prepare, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish, making them perfect for those busy evenings.
- The explosion of flavors from the gooey ricotta and mozzarella paired with your choice of savory fillings creates a mouthwatering experience that everyone will adore.
- Their versatility allows you to mix and match ingredients, so you can customize each calzone to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Plus, the golden, crispy exterior not only looks fantastic but also adds a delightful texture that enhances every bite.
Air Fryer Calzones Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create mouthwatering Air Fryer Calzones!
For the Dough
• Refrigerated pizza dough – Easy to work with, this dough is the perfect foundation for your calzones.
For the Cheese Filling
• Ricotta cheese – Adds a creamy texture and rich flavor that makes each bite unforgettable.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully for a gooey, delicious bite.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – Brings a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the other cheeses.
For the Savory Filling
• Cooked sausage, pepperoni, or veggies – Choose your favorite fillings to customize the taste of each calzone.
• Italian seasoning – Elevates the flavor profile with a classic Italian zest.
• Garlic powder – Infuses the filling with warm, aromatic notes.
• Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings to boost the overall flavor.
For the Finish
• Egg, beaten – This gives the calzones a beautiful golden-brown finish when air-fried.
For Dipping
• Marinara sauce – A must-have accompaniment for dipping, adding a tangy contrast to the gooey calzones.
How to Make Air Fryer Calzones
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Combine the cheeses. In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, cooked sausage (or other fillings), Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until everything is well blended and creamy.
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Roll out the dough. On a lightly floured surface, stretch the refrigerated pizza dough into a rectangle or circle, aiming for about 1/4 inch thick to create a sturdy base for your calzones.
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Cut the dough circles. Using a pizza cutter or a round cutter, slice the dough into equal-sized circles, approximately 6–8 inches in diameter, ensuring you have enough for filling.
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Fill the dough. Place a generous spoonful of your cheesy mixture on one half of each dough circle, being careful to leave a little border around the edge for sealing.
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Fold the dough. Gently fold the other half of the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal them, then use a fork to crimp the edges for added security.
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Preheat your air fryer. Set your air fryer to preheat at 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the calzones, creating a perfectly hot environment for a great finish.
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Brush with egg. Use a pastry brush to apply the beaten egg over the tops of the calzones, giving them a lovely golden color when they finish cooking.
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Arrange in the basket. Carefully place the calzones in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each one to ensure even cooking.
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Air fry the calzones. Cook them in the air fryer for 10–15 minutes, keeping an eye out for a golden brown exterior and checking for doneness before removing.
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Cool slightly. After cooking, let the calzones cool for a few minutes on a wire rack to set the filling and make them easier to handle.
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Serve with sauce. Enjoy your warm Air Fryer Calzones alongside a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping and savor every bite!
Optional: Garnish with fresh basil for an added burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Calzones?
Looking to craft a complete meal that perfectly complements the warm and cheesy goodness of your calzones?
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Fresh Garden Salad: A crunchy blend of greens and veggies drizzled with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the calzones’ richness.
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Garlic Bread: This golden, buttery delight is the ultimate sidekick. The garlicky aroma pairs beautifully with the Italian flavors of the calzones.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned with olive oil and herbs, these tender veggies bring a savory sweetness and a colorful touch to your table.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, crisp texture of coleslaw provides a refreshing bite that balances the warm, cheesy filling.
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Stuffed Mushrooms: For a delightful appetizer, try stuffed mushrooms filled with cheesy goodness, enhancing the Italian theme of your meal.
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Zesty Marinara Dipping Sauce: While it’s already included for serving, consider a marinated version with added herbs to elevate the seductive allure of your calzones.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A fizzy drink bursting with citrus adds a fun and refreshing twist to your meal, quenching your thirst and brightening up flavors.
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Calzones
Room Temperature: Leave your cooked Air Fryer Calzones at room temperature for up to 2 hours before storing them to ensure food safety.
Fridge: Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a crispy finish.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap calzones individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat frozen calzones, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Enjoy your delectable calzones!
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Calzones are ideal for meal prep! You can prepare the cheese filling and cut the dough circles up to 24 hours in advance by storing them separately in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, keep the cheese mixture in an airtight container; this prevents it from drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply fill the prepared dough with the cheese mixture, seal the calzones, and brush with egg. Air fry as directed, and you’ll have delicious, homemade calzones that are just as delightful as if you made them fresh. This makes weeknight meals easy and stress-free for busy cooks!
Air Fryer Calzones Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Air Fryer Calzones and explore different flavors!
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Veggie-Packed: Substitute sausage or pepperoni with diced bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach for a colorful, nutritious twist.
Add extra Italian seasoning to enhance the savory depth of flavor. -
Cheesy Delight: Use a mix of cheeses like gouda, cheddar, and feta for a bold flavor explosion.
Each bite becomes an adventure with this cheesy combination! -
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to your filling for a delightful heat that elevates every mouthful.
Just the right amount of spice can transform your calzone into a bold treat. -
Gluten-Free: Swap out the refrigerated pizza dough for gluten-free pizza dough or make your own from almond flour.
Deliciousness knows no dietary bounds! -
Breakfast Calzone: Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and crispy bacon for a hearty breakfast option.
Perfect for brunch and sure to satisfy your morning cravings! -
Pesto Surprise: Spread a thin layer of pesto on the dough before adding the filling for a burst of fresh flavor.
The aromatic herbs will bring your calzones to life in a new way. -
Sweet Treat: Try a dessert version by filling calzones with Nutella and banana slices, then dust with powdered sugar.
This sweet twist makes for an indulgent treat sure to impress. -
Herbed Crust: Mix finely chopped fresh herbs like basil or oregano into the dough for an aromatic finish.
The herby fragrance will make your kitchen smell heavenly as they cook!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Air Fryer Calzones, ensure your dough is rolled out evenly to about 1/4 inch thick for the best texture and rise.
- Avoid overfilling your calzones to prevent leaks during cooking; a generous spoonful of filling is usually just right.
- To achieve a beautifully golden-brown finish, make sure to brush the tops of the calzones with the beaten egg before air frying.
- Keep a close eye on the cooking time and check for doneness around the 10-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
Air Fryer Calzones Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best pizza dough for making calzones?
Absolutely! When selecting pizza dough, look for a refrigerated option that is fresh and has no signs of discoloration or damage. It should be pliable and elastic; if it’s too tough, it might not rise well. You can even opt for whole wheat or gluten-free varieties if you have dietary restrictions!
What’s the best way to store leftover Air Fryer Calzones?
You can easily store your leftover Air Fryer Calzones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they are completely cooled first to prevent moisture buildup. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness!
Can I freeze Air Fryer Calzones, and if so, how?
Yes! To freeze your Air Fryer Calzones, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Place them in a freezer-safe bag and label with the date. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until piping hot.
What can I do if my calzones are leaking during cooking?
Very! If you notice leakage, it’s often due to overfilling or improperly sealed edges. Be sure to use only a generous spoonful of filling and press the edges together firmly before crimping with a fork. This will create a tighter seal. If leaks happen, don’t worry – they’ll still taste delicious!
Are these calzones safe for my kids or pets?
Of course! The Air Fryer Calzones are generally kid-friendly; just keep in mind any specific allergies they may have. Avoid ingredients like certain cheeses or meats that could be inappropriate for young children or pets. Always check to see if ingredients are safe for your furry friends, especially onions and garlic, which should be avoided for pets.
How do I know when my calzones are done cooking?
You’ll know your Air Fryer Calzones are fully cooked when they turn a lovely golden brown and the dough is firm to the touch. I recommend checking them around the 10-minute mark. If you’re uncertain, you can make a small slit in one to check if the inside is hot and gooey!
Air Fryer Calzones
Ingredients
- 1 package Refrigerated pizza dough Easy to work with
- 1 cup Ricotta cheese Adds creamy texture
- 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese Melts beautifully
- 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Compliments other cheeses
- 1 cup Cooked sausage, pepperoni, or veggies Choose your favorite fillings
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Classic Italian zest
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder Infuses warm notes
- to taste Salt and pepper Essential seasonings
- 1 egg beaten egg For golden finish
- 1 cup Marinara sauce Great for dipping
Method
- Combine the cheeses in a medium bowl until well blended and creamy.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut the dough into equal-sized circles, approximately 6–8 inches in diameter.
- Fill the dough with a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture, leaving a border.
- Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and seal the edges.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) while preparing the calzones.
- Brush the tops of the calzones with the beaten egg.
- Arrange the calzones in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Air fry the calzones for 10–15 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
- Serve warm alongside marinara sauce for dipping.
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