As the air fryer hums in the kitchen, a wave of excitement washes over me—today, I’m creating Quick Air Fryer Calzones, the perfect canvas for culinary creativity. These delightful pockets of joy feature a crispy, golden crust that embraces your choice of savory fillings, making them a fantastic option for super busy days or casual gatherings. With the flexibility to swap ingredients and even use pre-made dough, they not only promise a satisfying meal but also a chance to customize everything to your liking. Whether you’re fueled by a need for comfort food or a craving for something fun and interactive, these calzones are your answer. What mouthwatering filling will you choose for your own delicious masterpiece?
What makes these calzones irresistible?
Customization at Its Finest: You can easily swap fillings to match your taste—try pepperoni, veggies, or even some bold spices!
Quick Cooking: Utilizing the air fryer not only saves time but also gives that perfect crispness without the oil of traditional frying.
Family-Friendly Fun: Kids can join in on the fun, creating their unique calzones with their favorite ingredients.
Gourmet Appeal: The golden crust and gooey filling elevate simple meals to gourmet experiences.
Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare extra calzones for hassle-free lunches, just like these tasty Air Fryer Fish sticks that can be made and frozen for later!
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these flavorful pockets are sure to please guests, combining comfort food vibes with a modern twist.
Air Fryer Calzone Ingredients
For the Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing the flavor in the dough.
• Sugar – Aids in fermentation and browning; use small amounts of alternative sweeteners if desired.
• Olive Oil – Adds moisture and richness; can be replaced with avocado oil or melted butter.
• Instant Yeast – Helps the dough rise quickly; regular yeast is an option but requires longer rising time.
• Warm Water – Activates yeast and hydrates the dough; avoid hot water to keep the yeast alive.
For the Filling
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Provides a gooey, melted texture; swap for cheddar for a sharper taste.
• Cooked Chicken Ham – Offers protein and flavor; substitute with any cooked protein like sausage or turkey.
• Turkey Bacon – Adds a smoky flavor; you can use regular bacon or omit for a vegetarian option.
• Diced Bell Peppers – Contributes freshness and crunch; can replace with other veggies like spinach or zucchini.
• Sliced Mushrooms – Adds earthy flavor; can easily be omitted or substituted with your favorite veggies.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor; fresh minced garlic works beautifully too.
• Dried Oregano – Provides aromatic herbal notes; Italian seasoning is a perfect substitute.
For the Egg Wash
• Egg – Gives a beautiful golden finish when baked; use milk as a vegan alternative if desired.
Explore the delightful versatility of Air Fryer Calzones with this comprehensive ingredients list, and let your culinary creativity shine!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer Calzones
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 packet of instant yeast until thoroughly blended. This mixture will create a solid base for your Air Fryer Calzones, ensuring the dough rises beautifully.
Step 2: Add Liquids
Create a well in the center of the dry mixture and pour in ¾ cup of warm water and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough begins to come together, which should take about 1-2 minutes. This is crucial for activating the yeast and ensuring a smooth, cohesive dough.
Step 3: Knead Dough
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. You'll want the dough to be soft yet slightly tacky; this step is essential for developing the gluten that gives your calzones their delightful chewiness.
Step 4: Let Dough Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks puffy and springs back slightly when poked.
Step 5: Prepare Fillings
While the dough is rising, cook and chop up 4 slices of turkey bacon and ½ cup of chicken ham. Dice one bell pepper and slice ½ cup of mushrooms. In a mixing bowl, combine these ingredients with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano while setting the mixture aside for later use.
Step 6: Divide Dough
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide it into 6 equal portions and roll each piece into a circle about 6 inches in diameter. The rolled-out dough will be the perfect canvas for your delicious Air Fryer Calzones.
Step 7: Assemble Calzones
Take one circle of dough and spoon a portion of the filling onto one half, leaving space at the edges. Fold the dough over to meet the edges and crimp the sides to seal tightly. Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling, ensuring each calzone is well secured.
Step 8: Apply Egg Wash
In a small bowl, beat one egg to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of each calzone with the egg wash using a pastry brush; this will give your Air Fryer Calzones a beautiful golden finish as they cook.
Step 9: Preheat Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Allowing the air fryer to come up to temperature ensures even cooking and perfect crispiness for your calzones.
Step 10: Cook Calzones
Place 2-3 calzones in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Air fry them for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You’ll know they’re done when the aroma fills your kitchen!
Step 11: Serve
Once cooked, remove the calzones from the air fryer and let them cool slightly for about 5 minutes before serving. These delicious Air Fryer Calzones pair perfectly with your favorite dipping sauce, making them a delightful addition to any meal!
What to Serve with Quick Air Fryer Calzones
Savor the bliss of crafting a memorable meal by pairing these delightful calzones with complementary sides that enhance every bite.
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Marinara Sauce: A classic dip that adds a tangy, rich flavor, perfect for those warm, cheesy bites.
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Fresh Side Salad: Light and crisp greens tossed in a zesty dressing provide balance and freshness to your meal.
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Garlic Breadsticks: The buttery, garlicky goodness complements the savory filling, creating a comforting Italian experience.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned veggies bring a textural contrast and a vibrant mix of flavors, warming up the palate beautifully.
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Crispy Potato Wedges: Golden and crunchy, these wedges add heartiness next to the soft, cheesy calzones.
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Herbed Yogurt Dip: Creamy and cool, this dip adds a refreshing touch and enhances the flavors of seasoned fillings.
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Sparkling Lemonade: Crisp and bright, this drink is a delightful contrast to the savory richness of the calzones.
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Dessert Pairing: Serve with a slice of warm apple pie to end the meal on a sweet note, offering a delightful balance to the savory main.
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Calzones
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Avoid Soggy Filling: Make sure your fillings are not too watery, as this can lead to soggy calzones. Drain any excess liquid before assembling.
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Prep Ahead: For a quicker dinner, prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before using. This way, you can enjoy homemade Air Fryer Calzones in no time!
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Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to try different cheeses or spices in your calzone filling. Unique flavor combinations can elevate your dish to a whole new level.
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Freeze Extras: If you have leftovers, unbaked calzones can be frozen. Just adjust the cooking time when you air fry them straight from the freezer.
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Perfect the Dough: Knead the dough well to develop gluten, ensuring your calzones have a delightful chewy texture. This step is crucial for that perfect bite!
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Calzones are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry ingredients and refrigerating the formed dough; ensure it's lightly oiled and covered to prevent drying out. Additionally, the filling can be prepped up to 3 days in advance by cooking and chopping your proteins and veggies; just store the mixture in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply assemble the calzones and air fry for that freshly cooked taste—resulting in delicious, golden pockets with minimal effort! Perfect for busy weeknights!
Air Fryer Calzones Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Air Fryer Calzones—there’s a world of delicious possibilities waiting for you!
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Vegetarian: Replace meats with a medley of your favorite vegetables, like zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach for a fresh twist. The vibrant colors and flavors will brighten your meal!
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Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for a warm, zesty bite. Feel the heat intensify and enjoy the burst of flavors with every bite!
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Cheesy Delight: Mix different cheeses like feta, gouda, or pepper jack for a gourmet feel. Combining cheeses creates a rich, multi-dimensional flavor profile to savor.
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Protein Swap: Try ground beef, turkey, or even quinoa for a different protein source. Each option offers its unique taste and texture, enhancing the calzone experience.
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Sweet Indulgence: For dessert, fill calzones with Nutella and sliced bananas or berries. Air frying these will create a warm, gooey treat that’s utterly irresistible!
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley to your filling for an aromatic touch. The fragrant blend elevates the taste and makes each calzone feel like a true Italian delight.
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Classic Italian: Incorporate ricotta and spinach with your mozzarella for a classic Italian fill. This traditional combination brings a burst of creamy goodness to every mouthful.
If you’re looking for more cooking inspiration, try pairing these calzones with a side of Air Fryer Fish sticks for a fun and balanced meal. And remember, the sky's the limit—let your imagination soar as you explore the endless possibilities of your homemade Air Fryer Calzones!
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Calzones
Fridge: Store cooked calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Unbaked calzones can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag to prevent sticking.
Reheating: To restore their crispy texture, reheat cooked calzones in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it may make the crust soggy.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the dough and fillings in advance, refrigerating the dough for up to 24 hours before assembly, making it easy to whip up your Air Fryer Calzones on a busy day.
Air Fryer Calzones Recipe FAQs
What type of flour should I use for the dough?
You can use all-purpose flour for a classic calzone dough. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, feel free to substitute with gluten-free flour. Just make sure to check for a blend that can rise well, and you might also need to adjust the hydration slightly.
How should I store leftover calzones?
Store any cooked Air Fryer Calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend placing parchment paper between layers if you're stacking them to keep them nice and crispy! When you're ready to munch again, simply reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore that delicious crunch.
Can I freeze unbaked calzones?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the unbaked calzones and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them individually for about 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you're ready to cook, simply remove from the freezer and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Just add a few extra minutes to account for the frozen dough!
What can I do if my calzone dough isn't rising enough?
If your dough isn't rising as it should, it might be due to inactive yeast. Make sure to check the expiration date on your yeast packet! Also, ensure your water was warm, not hot, when mixing with the yeast. For better results, try letting the dough rise in a warmer spot, like inside an oven that's turned off but has the light on, as the added warmth can help.
Can my pets have any of the ingredients in these calzones?
It's best to keep calzones away from pets, especially if they contain ingredients like garlic or onion, which can be harmful to them. If you'd like to share a little treat with your furry friend, consider baking a plain version without those harmful ingredients or using pet-friendly replacements instead!
Delicious Air Fryer Calzones: Quick, Crispy, and Customizable
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 packet of instant yeast until thoroughly blended.
- Create a well in the center of the dry mixture and pour in ¾ cup of warm water and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough begins to come together.
- Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours until it doubles in size.
- While the dough is rising, cook and chop 4 slices of turkey bacon and ½ cup of chicken ham. Dice one bell pepper and slice ½ cup of mushrooms. Combine these with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down gently and divide into 6 equal portions. Roll each piece into a circle about 6 inches in diameter.
- Take a circle of dough, spoon a portion of the filling onto one half, fold, and crimp the sides to seal tightly.
- Beat one egg to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of each calzone with the egg wash.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Place 2-3 calzones in the air fryer basket, and air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, remove calzones from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving.
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