Crazy Easy Air Fryer Calzones

© Original Recipe By The Daily Garnish ©

🔥 Crazy Easy Air Fryer Calzones: The Tasty Snack That Will Wow Your Family

1. Introduction

Are you craving a homemade pizza but want something a little more portable and fun? Enter air fryer calzones — crispy, cheesy, and utterly delicious pockets of flavor perfect for quick dinners or savory snacks. Making calzones in the air fryer is a game-changer, offering that golden-brown crunch without the mess of traditional oven baking. With a few simple ingredients and your trusted air fryer, you can whip up these decadent treats in no time.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in about 20-25 minutes – ideal for busy weeknights
• One-pan, minimal cleanup — perfect for quick, tasty snacks
• Crispy outside and gooey inside — just like street food but homemade
• Flexible fillings — customize with your favorite cheese, meats, and vegetables
• Healthy alternative — less oil than fried calzones, more flavor than baking

3. Ingredient Notes

To craft the perfect *air fryer calzones*, high-quality ingredients truly make a difference. Use fresh pizza dough — either homemade or store-bought for convenience. For the fillings, choose a good mozzarella for melty goodness, and consider adding savory pepperoni, sautéed vegetables, or even cooked chicken for variety. High-protein options like cooked chicken also work well, making these calzones a satisfying quick dinner. Don’t forget to season your fillings with herbs like basil or oregano for authentic flavor. Opt for fresh rather than dried herbs for a more aromatic bite. For the dough, some bakers like to brush a little olive oil on top of the calzones before air frying to enhance the crispiness and golden coating.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

To get started, investing in a reliable Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics streamlines the cooking process. Its versatile settings help ensure your calzones are perfectly crispy and cooked evenly. Additionally, a good rolling pin (for flattening the dough) and a silicone brush (for oiling the tops) keep prep efficient and mess-free. For assembling fillings, a sturdy T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set provides durable tools that will last through countless recipes.

5. How to Make Crazy Easy Air Fryer Calzones

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start with a smooth, elastic dough. If using store-bought dough, let it rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes to make it easier to roll out. Lightly flour your surface and rolling pin, then roll the dough into a thin circle, roughly 6-8 inches across. The thinner the dough, the crispier the calzone!

Step 2: Add the Filling

Spread a spoonful of marinara or pizza sauce over one half of the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border. Add your favorite fillings—cheese, meats, vegetables—then season lightly with herbs. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the calzone to burst during cooking.

Step 3: Seal and Prepare

Fold the dough over the fillings to create a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges firmly to seal, then crimp with a fork for extra security. Lightly brush the top with olive oil using a silicone brush, which gives the calzones a beautiful golden finish.

Step 4: Air Fry

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Place the calzones in the basket in a single layer, leaving space for air circulation. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden brown and crispy. The aroma of baked dough and melted cheese will fill your kitchen!

6. Expert Tips for Success

• Ensure your dough is not too thick; thin is better for crispiness.
• Don’t overstuff—leave enough space for sealing to prevent leaks.
• Use a light brush of oil for a crispy, golden finish.
• Flip the calzones midway to avoid uneven browning — some air fryers cook hotter on one side.
• Allow the calzones to rest for 2 minutes after cooking; this helps the cheese set and prevents burns.

7. Variations & Substitutions

If you’re gluten-free, swap the dough for a gluten-free pizza crust or cauliflower-based dough. For vegan versions, use dairy-free cheese, and load up on sautéed vegetables and plant-based meats. Want a spicy kick? Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes inside. The beauty of calzones is their adaptability—get creative with your favorite flavors!

8. Storage & Reheating

Leftover calzones store well 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 3-5 minutes until crispy and heated through. Avoid microwaving, which can make the dough soggy. For extended storage, freeze the uncooked calzones with a little space between each, then bake or air fry from frozen when ready to enjoy.

9. FAQ

Can I make calzones ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare and seal the calzones, then refrigerate or freeze. Bake or air fry when you’re ready to serve for the freshest, crispiest results.

How do I ensure my calzones don’t burst open in the air fryer?

Make sure to seal the edges completely and avoid overstuffing. Crimping the edges with a fork helps keep all that cheesy goodness inside during cooking.

What dipping sauces go well with air fryer calzones?

Marinara, ranch dressing, or garlic butter all enhance the savory flavors. Feel free to experiment with spicy salsas or creamy dips for extra fun!

10. Conclusion

With this **crazy easy air fryer calzones** recipe, you can enjoy homemade, cheesy goodness in a quick, health-conscious way. Perfect for busy weeknights, game day snacks, or a fun weekend project, these calzones will delight everyone at your table. Ready to give it a shot? Gather your ingredients, load up the air fryer, and enjoy the crispy thrill of homemade calzones — your taste buds will thank you!

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