Air Fryer Calzone: Easy Recipe & Crispy Results

Air Fryer Calzone: Prepare to be amazed! Imagine biting into a golden-brown, perfectly crisp crust, yielding to a molten core of savory cheeses, flavorful meats, and tangy tomato sauce. Sounds divine, doesn’t it? Well, with this recipe, that dream becomes a delicious reality, and in record time, thanks to the magic of the air fryer!

The calzone, a close cousin to the pizza, boasts a rich history rooted in the bustling streets of Naples, Italy. Born as a convenient street food, it allowed busy Neapolitans to enjoy their favorite pizza toppings on the go, neatly tucked inside a portable, oven-baked pocket. Over time, the calzone evolved, with regional variations and countless fillings, but its essence remained the same: a celebration of Italian flavors in a comforting, hand-held package.

What makes the calzone so universally loved? It’s the perfect combination of textures and tastes. The satisfying crunch of the crust gives way to a soft, chewy interior, while the filling offers a symphony of savory, cheesy, and tangy notes. And now, with the air fryer, enjoying a homemade air fryer calzone is easier and faster than ever before. Forget about preheating the oven and waiting for ages – this method delivers incredible results in a fraction of the time. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to customize your meal with your favorite ingredients. So, let’s get cooking and create the ultimate air fryer calzone experience!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup warm water (105-115°F)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing
• For the Filling:
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ? teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup cooked Italian sausage, crumbled
• ½ cup sliced pepperoni
• ½ cup sliced mushrooms, sautéed
• For the Sauce:
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• For the Egg Wash:
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon water

Preparing the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast might be old, and you’ll need to start over with fresh yeast.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In the same bowl, add the flour and salt. Whisk together to combine the dry ingredients evenly. This ensures that the salt is distributed throughout the dough, which is important for flavor and gluten development.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Pour the olive oil into the yeast mixture. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time. If it’s too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time. Proper kneading develops the gluten, which gives the calzone its chewy texture.
5. First Rise: Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This allows the yeast to work its magic and create a light and airy dough.

Preparing the Filling:

1. Combine Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, beaten egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed. The egg helps to bind the cheese mixture together, preventing it from oozing out during cooking.
2. Add Toppings: Gently fold in the cooked Italian sausage, pepperoni slices, and sautéed mushrooms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cheese mixture dense. You can customize the filling with your favorite pizza toppings, such as olives, bell peppers, or spinach.

Assembling the Calzones:

1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes. This ensures that the calzones cook evenly and get a crispy crust.
2. Divide the Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release the air. Divide the dough in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each piece of dough into a 10-12 inch circle.
3. Add Filling: Spread half of the cheese and topping mixture onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a 1-inch border. Be careful not to overfill the calzones, as this can make them difficult to seal and may cause the filling to leak out during cooking.
4. Fold and Seal: Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges together tightly to seal. You can also crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch and to ensure a secure seal.
5. Create Vent Holes: Use a sharp knife to cut a few small slits in the top of each calzone. This allows steam to escape during cooking, preventing the calzones from bursting.
6. Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the calzones with the egg wash. This will give them a golden-brown color and a slightly glossy finish.

Air Frying the Calzones:

1. Place in Air Fryer: Carefully place the calzones in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.
2. Cook: Air fry for 12-15 minutes, or until the calzones are golden brown and the filling is heated through. Check the calzones halfway through cooking and flip them over if necessary to ensure even browning.
3. Check for Doneness: The calzones are done when the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature of the filling reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
4. Rest: Remove the calzones from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to cool slightly and prevents it from being too runny.

Preparing the Sauce:

1. Sauté Garlic: In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make it bitter.
2. Add Marinara and Seasonings: Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
3. Serve: Serve the warm calzones with the marinara sauce for dipping. You can also garnish with fresh basil or Parmesan cheese.

Tips and Variations:

• Dough Variations: You can use store-bought pizza dough or pre-made calzone dough to save time. You can also add herbs or spices to the dough for extra flavor.
• Filling Variations: Get creative with your fillings! Try adding different types of cheese, vegetables, or meats. Some popular filling combinations include:
  • Ham and Swiss cheese
  • Spinach and feta cheese
  • Chicken and pesto
  • Vegetarian with roasted vegetables
• Sauce Variations: Experiment with different sauces, such as pesto, Alfredo sauce, or a spicy tomato sauce.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the calzones just before cooking.
• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled calzones before cooking. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then air fry as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Air Fryer Size: Cooking times may vary depending on the size and model of your air fryer. Keep an eye on the calzones and adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve the calzones with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. They are also great for parties and gatherings.

Enjoy your homemade Air Fryer Calzones!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Air Fryer Calzone recipe is truly a game-changer, and I genuinely believe it’s a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, satisfying, and incredibly delicious meal. Forget ordering takeout – you can whip up a restaurant-quality calzone in your own kitchen in a fraction of the time, and with total control over the ingredients. What’s not to love?

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. The air fryer works its magic, creating a perfectly golden-brown and crispy crust while ensuring the inside is melted, gooey, and bursting with flavor. The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and your favorite fillings creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to get creative with your fillings. Are you a meat lover? Load it up with pepperoni, sausage, and ham. Prefer something vegetarian? Spinach, mushrooms, roasted red peppers, and olives are all fantastic options. You can even add a touch of pesto or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor. The possibilities are truly endless!

For serving suggestions, I personally love to dip my Air Fryer Calzone in a warm marinara sauce. It adds a tangy and complementary flavor that elevates the entire experience. You could also try a creamy garlic sauce or even a pesto aioli. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect accompaniment to balance out the richness of the calzone.

Thinking about variations? Consider making mini calzones for a fun appetizer or party snack. Simply divide the dough into smaller portions and adjust the cooking time accordingly. You could also experiment with different types of dough, such as whole wheat or gluten-free, to cater to dietary needs. And for a sweet treat, try filling your calzone with Nutella and berries for a decadent dessert!

I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s the perfect weeknight meal, a crowd-pleasing party snack, or even a satisfying lunch. The air fryer makes it so easy and convenient, and the results are simply outstanding.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat your air fryer, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure. I promise you won’t be disappointed. This Air Fryer Calzone is a guaranteed hit!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of homemade calzones. Once you’ve given it a whirl, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Share your photos, your variations, and your thoughts in the comments below. Did you add any unique fillings? Did you try a different dipping sauce? I’m always looking for new ideas and inspiration, and I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy cooking! Don’t forget to rate the recipe once you’ve tried it! Your feedback helps others discover this amazing recipe.