Calzones, those delightful Italian turnovers filled with scrumptious ingredients, have found a new friend in the air fryer. Forget the hassle of firing up your oven or the mess of deep frying. The air fryer offers a quicker, cleaner, and equally delicious method for cooking up these pocket-sized delights.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a newbie in the kitchen, this air fryer calzones recipe will make you feel like a culinary maestro. Let’s embrace the fusion of traditional Italian cooking with modern kitchen gadgets and prepare to impress your palate.
Why This Recipe Works
Efficiency and Consistency: The magic of the air fryer lies in its ability to circulate hot air rapidly, ensuring even cooking. Unlike traditional oven-baking which can sometimes leave parts of your calzone undercooked or overly browned, the air fryer guarantees a consistent golden-brown crust each time. Plus, it's faster, which means you get to devour your creations sooner!
Healthier Option:Let's face it, while deep-fried calzones are undeniably tasty, they come with their share of added calories and guilt. This recipe lets you enjoy the crispiness of a fried outer layer without submerging your calzone in oil. The air fryer achieves that coveted crispy crust with significantly less fat, making this a healthier alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Ingredients
Pizza Dough: This is the foundation of your calzones, holding all the fillings. It can be homemade or store-bought for convenience. For a healthier twist, use whole wheat dough.
Cheese (Mozzarella, Ricotta, or a mix): Essential for the gooey, stretchy texture inside, providing a rich, creamy taste. Vegan cheeses or lactose-free options are suitable substitutes for dietary restrictions.
Marinara Sauce:Adds a tangy, sweet flavor profile; it's used inside the calzone and/or as a dip. You could substitute with pesto or a creamy Alfredo sauce for variation.
Vegetables (e.g., Bell Peppers, Mushrooms, Onions): These add a nutritious crunch, flavor, and helpful fiber. Feel free to mix in vegetables of choice or substitute with spinach or vegan meat for alternatives.
Meat (optional, e.g., Cooked Italian Sausage or Pepperoni): Offers a savory, protein-rich bite. For vegetarians, consider replacing with plant-based meat; for a lighter option, grilled chicken or turkey works well.
Tips
- Ensure the edges of your calzone are sealed properly to prevent the filling from oozing out during cooking.
- Avoid overstuffing your calzone; it might not cook evenly, and the contents could spill.
- Preheat the air fryer before adding your calzones to achieve a crispy texture.
- Brush a little olive oil over the top for a golden-brown finish.
- Allow the calzones to cool for a few minutes after air frying to help set the filling and avoid burns.
How to Serve
Calzones are a versatile dish that can be served in various appealing ways to enhance your dining experience. They're traditionally enjoyed as a handheld treat, reminiscent of their pizza origins, making them a fantastic, casual meal for gatherings, game nights, or a family dinner with a fun twist.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with a side of marinara sauce, garlic butter, or ranch for an extra flavor kick. Each person can have their mini dipping bowl for a personalized touch.
- Side Salad: Pair with a fresh garden salad with a vinaigrette dressing to balance the hearty, cheesy calzone with something light and refreshing.
- Pairing with Beverages: Complement the meal with your choice of beverages. A classic soda, sparkling water, or a glass of red wine elevates the dining experience.
Similar Recipes
Air Fryer Calzones
Ingredients
- 1 pound pizza dough
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce plus extra for serving
- 1 cup mixed vegetables bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, chopped
- ½ cup cooked Italian sausage or pepperoni optional
- Olive oil for brushing
- Seasonings: salt pepper, Italian seasoning (optional)
- Flour for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C).
- On a flour-dusted surface, divide your pizza dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each into a ball, then flatten into circles about 6 inches in diameter.
- In a bowl, mix your selected vegetables, meats, mozzarella, and ricotta cheese. Add a bit of salt, pepper, and optional Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Spoon the mixture onto one half of each dough circle. Add a tablespoon of marinara sauce over the filling.
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Seal the edges by crimping with a fork.
- Lightly brush each calzone with olive oil. This helps achieve a golden color.
- Place the calzones in the air fryer for 8-10 minutes or until they're golden brown and crispy. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Serve hot with extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Nutrition
Notes
- Ensure the edges of your calzone are sealed properly to prevent the filling from oozing out during cooking.
- Avoid overstuffing your calzone; it might not cook evenly, and the contents could spill.
- Preheat the air fryer before adding your calzones to achieve a crispy texture.
- Brush a little olive oil over the top for a golden-brown finish.
- Allow the calzones to cool for a few minutes after air frying to help set the filling and avoid burns.