Air fryer calzones: 5 savory bites of cheesy bliss

Name: Air fryer calzones: 5 savory bites of cheesy bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups pizza dough; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup pepperoni slices; 1/4 cup marinara sauce for dipping

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 1, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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If you’re looking for a quick and delicious snack that feels like a warm hug, let me introduce you to air fryer calzones! These little pockets of joy are not only super easy to make but also packed with gooey mozzarella and savory pepperoni that’ll make your taste buds dance. I remember the first time I made these for my kids after school; their faces lit up like it was Christmas morning! The air fryer makes them crispy on the outside while keeping the inside perfectly cheesy and melty, which is just the way I love it. The best part? You can whip these up in under 30 minutes, making them a perfect option for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. Trust me, once you try these air fryer calzones, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen, just like they have in mine!

Ingredients List

To make these scrumptious air fryer calzones, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor:

2 cups pizza dough
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
1/4 cup marinara sauce for dipping

Feel free to get creative! You can swap out the pepperoni for your favorite veggies or even other meats if you’re feeling adventurous. Just make sure to keep the cheese—you definitely don’t want to skip that gooey goodness!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Calzones

Making air fryer calzones is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you through each step to ensure your delicious pockets of goodness turn out perfect every time! Let’s dive in!

Preheat the Air Fryer

First things first, preheating your air fryer is crucial for that golden, crispy crust. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it warm up for about 5 minutes. This step helps to create that lovely texture we all crave!

Prepare the Dough

Now, let’s get to the fun part—rolling out the pizza dough! Find a clean, floured surface and roll out your dough until it’s about ¼ inch thick. You want it pliable but not too thin, or it might tear. Once you have it rolled out, grab a round cutter or a glass and cut circles about 6 inches in diameter. I love using a big glass for this—trust me, it makes it super easy!

Fill the Calzones

Time to add the good stuff! Take each dough circle and place a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese and a few slices of pepperoni on one half of the circle. Don’t overfill, or you’ll have a messy situation on your hands! Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal. I like to crimp the edges with a fork to ensure they’re well sealed and to add a bit of flair!

Cooking the Calzones

Place your calzones in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded—give them some space to breathe! Cook them for about 10-12 minutes or until they’re beautifully golden brown. You’ll know they’re done when they look irresistible!

Tips for Success with Air Fryer Calzones

To make sure your air fryer calzones turn out perfect every time, here are some of my favorite pro tips! First, keep an eye on the cooking time; air fryers can vary, so check them a minute or two early to avoid overcooking. If you like a crunchier crust, you can brush the tops with a bit of olive oil before cooking—this adds a lovely golden sheen!

Don’t hesitate to mix up the fillings! You can add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even some spinach for a veggie twist. If you’re a fan of spice, throw in some jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Just remember, keeping the cheese is key for that gooey goodness!

Lastly, let your calzones cool for a minute after cooking. They’ll be super hot inside, and trust me, waiting just a bit enhances the flavors! Enjoy the deliciousness!

Nutritional Information Section

When it comes to enjoying air fryer calzones, it’s nice to know what you’re indulging in! Each calzone is an estimated 300 calories, packed with flavor and a satisfying bite. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional values:

Calories: 300
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 600mg
Fiber: 2g
Cholesterol: 30mg

These values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient choices, so feel free to adjust as needed to fit your dietary preferences!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making air fryer calzones? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I often hear:

Can I use store-bought pizza dough for air fryer calzones?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough is a fantastic option for quick preparation. Just make sure to follow the same rolling and filling instructions for the best results!

What other fillings can I use in my calzones?
Get creative! You can fill your air fryer calzones with a variety of ingredients like ricotta cheese, sautéed vegetables, or even cooked sausage. Just remember to keep the cheese for that melty goodness!

How do I prevent my calzones from sticking to the air fryer?
To avoid any sticky situations, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal and keeps your calzones intact!

Can I make these calzones ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the calzones and refrigerate them for a few hours before cooking. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time if they’re cold from the fridge.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover calzones?
To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This will keep the crust crispy while warming the filling perfectly. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Calzones

Quick and Easy: These calzones come together in under 30 minutes, making them a perfect solution for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
Deliciously Cheesy: With gooey mozzarella and flavorful pepperoni, every bite is a cheesy delight that satisfies your comfort food cravings.
Customizable: You can easily personalize the fillings to suit your taste—add veggies, swap proteins, or even experiment with different cheeses!
Perfectly Crispy: The air fryer gives you that golden, crispy crust without the fuss of traditional frying.
Kid-Friendly: These calzones are always a hit with kids, making them a great option for family meals or after-school snacks.

Serving Suggestions

These air fryer calzones are fantastic on their own, but they shine even brighter when paired with the right sides! For a refreshing touch, serve them alongside a crisp garden salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens balances the richness of the calzones beautifully. If you’re in the mood for something warm, a bowl of marinara sauce is perfect for dipping or drizzling over the calzones. And let’s not forget about beverages! A chilled glass of sparkling water or a zesty lemonade complements the flavors perfectly. Enjoy your delicious meal!