Air Fryer Calzones Recipe
This Air Fryer Calzones Recipe creates golden, crispy pockets filled with melty cheese, savory fillings, and rich Italian flavor — all with less oil and faster cook time. A perfect homemade comfort food that’s quick, delicious, and family-approved!
Ingredients
For the Dough (Homemade Option)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour plus extra for dusting
- 1 packet 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water 105–115°F / 40–46°C
- 1 tbsp olive oil plus extra for bowl
- 1 tbsp sugar or honey
- 1 tsp sea salt
- OR use 1 lb 450 g store-bought pizza dough (divided into 4 portions)
For the Filling
- 1 cup whole-milk ricotta drained
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano
- 1 cup cooked toppings pepperoni, sausage, veggies, or ham, finely chopped
- 1 egg lightly beaten (for egg wash)
- ½ cup pizza or marinara sauce plus extra for dipping
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning optional
- Fresh basil or red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough (if homemade)
- Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5–8 minutes until foamy.
- Mix flour and salt in a bowl, add yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until combined.
- Knead 6–8 minutes until smooth. Let rise in an oiled bowl, covered, for 60–90 minutes until doubled.
- Punch down, divide into 4 portions, and let rest 10–15 minutes before rolling.
Step 2: Prep the Filling
- Mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning.
- Add any cooked meat or vegetables. Keep sauce minimal to avoid sogginess.
Step 3: Assemble the Calzones
- Roll each dough ball into a 7–8 inch round.
- Spoon filling onto one half, leaving a 1-inch border.
- Brush edges with beaten egg. Fold and press to seal.
- Crimp edges or press with a fork. Cut two small slits on top for steam.
Step 4: Air Fry the Calzones
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly oil basket or line with parchment.
- Place calzones in basket (don’t overcrowd).
- Air fry 8–12 minutes, flipping halfway if needed, until golden brown and crisp.
Step 5: Serve
- Rest for 2–3 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm with marinara sauce or garlic butter for dipping.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before air frying.
- Freeze: Freeze unbaked calzones up to 1 month; air fry from frozen, adding 3–5 extra minutes.
- Reheat: Air fry leftovers at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Veggie Lover’s: Spinach, mushrooms, and feta.
- BBQ Chicken: Shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, and Gouda.
- Dessert Version: Nutella and banana, dusted with powdered sugar.
- Tip: Don’t overfill — excess moisture causes leaks or sogginess.