Quick and Crispy Air Fryer Calzones for Easy Dinner

© Original recipe by Crave & Craft ©

🍕✨Quick and Crispy Air Fryer Calzones for Easy Dinner

1. Introduction

Looking for a wholesome, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s ready in minutes? These air fryer calzones are perfect for satisfying your craving for crispy, cheesy goodness without the fuss of traditional baking. Made with versatile fillings wrapped in golden, flaky dough, they’re an ideal quick dinner idea that can be customized to your taste. Plus, the air fryer guarantees a satisfyingly crispy exterior every time, making these calzones a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in 30 minutes — no need to preheat your oven for ages.
• One-pan marvel — clean-up is a breeze with minimal dishes.
• Customizable fillings — add your favorite meats, cheeses, or veggies.
• Perfect for leftovers — reheat in the air fryer for that freshly-made crunch.

3. Ingredient Notes

The key to achieving that deliciously crispy and flavorful calzone starts with quality ingredients. Use a compact 6-in-1 digital air fryer for reliable heat circulation and even cooking. Opt for fresh, high-quality cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan for a creamy yet stretchy texture. When choosing fillings, go for lean meats like cooked chicken or pepperoni, combined with vibrant vegetables such as bell peppers and spinach to add freshness. Use a good quality pizza dough or homemade bread dough for the best texture. Fresh herbs like basil and oregano enhance the flavor profile beautifully.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

To make these air fryer calzones perfectly, you’ll need some essential tools. The Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer can help you achieve that crispy golden crust with ease and versatility. A good rolling pin, like the KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer, can make prepping dough effortless. For perfectly sealed calzones, a pastry brush and some high-quality oven-safe silicone brushes will come in handy. All these tools elevate the cooking experience, ensuring professional results every time.

5. How to Make Air Fryer Calzones

Prepare the Dough

Start by rolling out your dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s about ¼ inch thick. It should be easily pliable but not too sticky. Use flour liberally to prevent sticking. The aroma of freshly rolled dough is truly intoxicating at this stage.

Assemble the Calzones

Cut the dough into circles about 6 inches in diameter. Spoon your chosen fillings—cheese, meats, and veggies—onto one half of each circle. Leave a border of about ½ inch for sealing. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together firmly. Use a fork or your fingers to crimp the edges, ensuring they’re sealed tight so the filling doesn’t escape during cooking. A perfectly sealed calzone should look like a small, portable parcel of cheesy goodness.

Cook in the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush the calzones with olive oil to promote crispness and golden color. Place them in the basket, making sure they aren’t touching, and cook for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the crust turns a perfect crispy, golden brown. The smell of toasted dough and melting cheese will be irresistible!

6. Expert Tips for Success

• Ensure your dough is chilled before rolling to maintain flexibility and prevent tearing.
• Seal the edges thoroughly—press firmly with a fork—to avoid leakage during cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; give each calzone enough space for even crisping.
• Brush with olive oil before air frying to boost that crispy exterior and deepen the golden hue.

7. Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to customize these calzones with different fillings. For a vegetarian version, swap out meats for mushrooms, spinach, or artichokes. For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or red pepper flakes. If dairy-free, substitute cheeses with plant-based alternatives and use dairy-free crusts. The adaptable nature of this recipe makes it suitable for various dietary preferences.

8. Storage & Reheating

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until crispy. This method restores that fresh and crispy texture, making leftovers almost as good as freshly made.

9. FAQ

Can I make calzones ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the calzones and freeze them unbaked on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a bag and store for up to a month. Bake directly from frozen in the air fryer, adding an extra 3-4 minutes to the cooking time.

What fillings work best in calzones?

Classic combinations include mozzarella with pepperoni or ham and cheese. You can also experiment with vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers. Using pre-cooked fillings ensures the calzones cook evenly and stay juicy.

How do I prevent the calzones from bursting open?

Make sure to seal the edges thoroughly and avoid overfilling. Using a fork to crimp the edges helps create a tight seal. Also, lightly brushing with oil before cooking encourages crispness and a firm crust that holds everything together.

What makes air fryer calzones so crispy?

The airflow in the air fryer circulates hot air around the calzones, creating a crispy exterior similar to frying but without the oil. Brushing with a little olive oil before cooking further enhances the golden crust and crunch.

10. Conclusion

These air fryer calzones are a culinary game-changer for busy weeknights. Quick to prepare, customizable, and irresistibly crispy, they bring the comfort of homemade pizza pockets to a whole new level. Try different fillings, and you’ll have a versatile recipe that’s not only delicious but also easy to make. Get your air fryer ready and enjoy a perfect, cheesy dinner in no time!

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