Air Fryer Calzone: A Crispy, Golden Delight

Air Fryer Calzone – just the name conjures up images of warm, gooey cheese stretching between perfectly crisp, golden-brown pockets of dough. And let me tell you, the reality is even better than the dream! This recipe isn’t just about convenience; it’s about elevating a classic Italian comfort food to new heights of flavor and texture.

While the exact origins of the calzone are debated, its story is undeniably tied to the rich culinary heritage of Italy. Essentially a folded pizza, the calzone offers a portable and satisfying meal, perfect for a quick lunch or a comforting dinner. Think of it as a delicious, handheld pizza pocket, bursting with flavor and ready in a fraction of the time it takes to bake a traditional calzone.

What makes Air Fryer Calzone so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures, of course! The air fryer creates an incredibly crispy, almost shatteringly delicate crust, a stark contrast to the soft, melty cheese and savory filling within. Whether you prefer a classic pepperoni and mozzarella combination or opt for a more adventurous filling, the air fryer ensures that every bite is a symphony of textures and tastes. And let’s not forget the convenience; this recipe significantly cuts down on cooking time compared to oven-baked versions, making it a perfect weeknight meal.

I’ve perfected this Air Fryer Calzone recipe to deliver the ultimate crispy, golden-brown exterior and a perfectly gooey interior. Get ready to experience calzone like never before!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup pepperoni slices (or your favorite toppings)
• 1 large egg, beaten
• Dried oregano for garnish (optional)
• Olive oil spray for the air fryer basket

Preparing the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and will give you a nice rise.
2. Add the olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
3. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. Don’t worry if it’s a little sticky at this stage.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time. If it’s too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. A warm oven (with the light on) is a great place for this.

Assembling the Calzones

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. This helps prevent your calzones from being too airy.
2. Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 6-inch circle. You can use a rolling pin or even just flatten them with your hands.
3. Place about 1/4 cup of pizza sauce in the center of each circle. Don’t overload it, or the sauce might leak out during cooking.
4. Top the sauce with about 1/4 cup of mozzarella cheese and your desired toppings (pepperoni in this case). Get creative! Try different cheeses, vegetables, or meats.
5. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, pressing the edges firmly to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch and to ensure a good seal.
6. Lightly beat an egg and brush it over the top of each calzone. This will give them a nice golden-brown color and a slightly glossy finish.
7. Optional: Sprinkle with dried oregano for extra flavor and aroma.

Air Fryer Cooking Process

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial for even cooking.
2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. This prevents sticking and ensures even browning.
3. Carefully place the calzones in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd it. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding will lead to unevenly cooked calzones.
4. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the calzones are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them, as air fryers can cook quickly. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model.
5. Important Note: Check the internal temperature of the calzones with a food thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
6. Once cooked, carefully remove the calzones from the air fryer basket and let them cool slightly before serving. They’ll be very hot!

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Calzones

1. Don’t overfill the calzones: Too much filling can cause them to burst open during cooking.
2. Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the calzone will taste.
3. Adjust cooking time as needed: Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model and the size of your calzones.
4. Experiment with different toppings: Get creative and try different combinations of cheeses, meats, and vegetables.
5. Serve immediately: Calzones are best served fresh out of the air fryer.
6. Leftovers: Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven for best results.

Conclusion:

So there you have it – my foolproof recipe for the crispiest, cheesiest, most satisfying Air Fryer Calzone you’ll ever taste! I truly believe this recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves calzones but wants a healthier, quicker, and easier way to make them. Forget wrestling with a hot oven and dealing with unevenly cooked dough; the air fryer delivers perfectly golden-brown, bubbly calzones every single time.

What makes this Air Fryer Calzone recipe so special? It’s the perfect blend of convenience and deliciousness. The air fryer’s rapid heating ensures a crispy crust without sacrificing the soft, pillowy interior. The simple yet flavorful filling is easily customizable to your preferences, and the entire process, from prep to plate, takes significantly less time than traditional oven baking. This means you can enjoy a hot, homemade calzone on a weeknight without spending hours in the kitchen. That’s a win-win in my book!

And let’s talk about the versatility! This recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses – try a blend of mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan for an extra decadent flavor. Add some spicy pepperoni, flavorful sausage, or even some roasted vegetables like peppers and onions to the filling for a more robust taste. For a vegetarian option, load it up with spinach, mushrooms, and artichoke hearts. The possibilities are truly endless!

Serving suggestions? I love to serve my Air Fryer Calzones with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. A side of marinara sauce for dipping is a must, of course! You can also get creative with dipping sauces – try a creamy pesto, a spicy arrabbiata sauce, or even a garlic aioli. For a truly indulgent experience, serve them with a side of garlic knots or some crusty Italian bread.

Beyond the variations, I encourage you to experiment with different fillings to create your own signature Air Fryer Calzone. Perhaps you’ll discover a unique combination that becomes your new favorite! Don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun with it. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of perfectly cooked, crispy calzones made effortlessly in your air fryer. Once you’ve made your own batch, I’d love to hear about it! Share your creations and your thoughts on social media using the hashtag #AirFryerCalzone. I can’t wait to see your delicious results and maybe even get inspired by your own unique twists on this fantastic recipe. Happy cooking!

So, what are you waiting for? Get cooking and let the deliciousness begin!