Are you ready to elevate your kitchen game? Air Fryer Calzones are crispy, flavorful, and oh-so-easy to make! With simple ingredients and quick steps, you’ll impress family and friends with this delicious treat. I’ll share tips for perfecting your calzones, plus custom options for every taste. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, let’s create a delightful meal that’s sure to please!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
For your air fryer calzones, gather these simple ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 cup warm water (around 110°F)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup diced pepperoni or a mix of colorful cooked vegetables for a vegetarian twist
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
– Marinara sauce for dipping
Nutritional Information
One serving of these calzones offers a tasty balance of flavors and nutrients. Each calzone has about:
– Calories: 400
– Protein: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 2g
– Sodium: 600mg
These values can change based on your filling and portion size.
Optional Ingredients for Customization
Feel free to mix things up! Here are some fun options:
– Spinach for added greens
– Mushrooms for a savory touch
– Feta cheese for a tangy flavor
– Jalapeños for a spicy kick
– Fresh herbs like basil or oregano for extra aroma
These choices can create unique flavors and keep your calzones exciting. Explore your options!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
To start, you need to mix the sugar and yeast in warm water. Wait about 5 to 10 minutes until it bubbles. This means the yeast is ready. In a big bowl, whisk the flour and salt. Then, make a well in the middle. Pour in the yeast mix and olive oil. Stir until it looks like dough. Place the dough on a floured surface and knead it for 5 minutes. The dough should feel smooth and stretchy. Place it in a greased bowl and cover it with a cloth. Let it rise for 30 minutes until it doubles in size.
Assembling the Calzones
Once the dough rises, punch it down gently. Divide the dough into four equal parts. Roll each part into a circle about 1/4-inch thick. In another bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and pepperoni or veggies. Add the Italian seasoning and stir well. Spoon this filling onto half of each dough circle. Leave some space around the edges. Fold the other half over and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a nice look.
Air Frying Process
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the calzones with beaten egg for a golden finish. Place them in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes until they are golden and crispy. After cooking, let the calzones cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair them with marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy your delicious air fryer calzones! For more detailed steps, check the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve Perfectly Crispy Calzones
To get your calzones crispy, follow these tips:
– Use a light brush of oil on the outside.
– Preheat your air fryer well before cooking.
– Place calzones in a single layer.
– Don’t crowd the basket; air needs to flow.
– Cook in batches if needed.
These steps will help you get a nice golden crust that’s crispy and delicious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes that can lead to soggy calzones:
– Not sealing the edges well.
– Overfilling your calzones with filling.
– Skipping the egg wash for a golden finish.
– Forgetting to preheat the air fryer.
– Cooking at too low of a temperature.
Avoid these errors to ensure your calzones come out perfectly every time.
Substitutions for Dairy-Free or Gluten-Free Options
You can easily make these calzones fit your diet. For a dairy-free version, try using:
– Vegan cheese instead of ricotta and mozzarella.
– Cashew cream for a rich texture.
For gluten-free calzones, use:
– Gluten-free all-purpose flour.
– Store-bought gluten-free dough if you want to save time.
These options will keep your calzones tasty while meeting your dietary needs.
Variations
Vegetarian Calzone Options
You can make great vegetarian calzones. Use fresh veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Mix in some artichokes or olives for a burst of flavor. For a cheesy delight, add feta or goat cheese. You can also include a blend of your favorite herbs. This gives your calzones a fresh, zesty taste.
Meat Lovers Calzone Ideas
For a meat lover’s dream, pile in pepperoni, sausage, and ham. You could also add crispy bacon for a smoky touch. Combine different meats for a robust flavor. Don’t forget to sprinkle some Italian seasoning on top. This enhances the taste and aroma of your calzones.
Flavorful Sauce Pairings
Pair your calzones with tasty sauces. Marinara is a classic choice and always a hit. You can also try garlic butter for a rich, savory dip. A spicy arrabbiata sauce adds a kick that many will love. Experiment with pesto or ranch dressing for a fun twist. Each sauce complements the calzones’ flavors and adds more fun to your meal.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Calzones
To keep your leftover calzones fresh, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container. You can also wrap them in plastic wrap or foil. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. This will help maintain their taste and texture.
Reheating Instructions
When you are ready to eat your calzones, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the calzones in the basket in a single layer. Heat them for about 5-7 minutes. This will make them crispy again. You can also use a regular oven. Just heat it to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes.
Freezing for Future Meals
If you want to save calzones for later, freeze them. Wrap each cooled calzone in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. To cook frozen calzones, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cook for about 12-15 minutes or until hot and crispy. Enjoy your meal with marinara sauce!
FAQs
Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, you can use store-bought dough for air fryer calzones. This option saves time. Look for pizza dough or bread dough in the fridge section. It offers great taste and texture. Just roll it out and fill it like homemade dough.
How long do I cook air fryer calzones?
Cook air fryer calzones for about 10-12 minutes at 375°F (190°C). This time gives you a crispy outside. Check for a golden brown color to know they are ready. If you have a smaller air fryer, you might need to cook them in batches.
What is the best filling for calzones?
The best filling for calzones includes a mix of cheese and meat or veggies. I love using ricotta, mozzarella, and pepperoni. For a veggie twist, try spinach and mushrooms. You can use any combination you like. Just keep the filling moist but not too runny.
How do I troubleshoot a calzone that burst during cooking?
If your calzone bursts, it may be overfilled. Make sure to leave space around the edges. Another reason might be the dough’s thickness. Roll it out evenly to avoid weak spots. Lastly, poke small holes in the top to let steam escape during cooking.
We explored all parts of making delicious calzones, from ingredients to storage. I shared tips for crispy edges and filling options. Remember, you can customize calzones to fit your taste. They store well and are easy to reheat. Use these steps to create a meal everyone will love. Enjoy your calzone-making adventure, and don’t hesitate to experiment!
