Easy Air Fryer Calzones for a Quick Dinner

© Original Recipe By Magic Spoon Recipes ©

🔥🍕 Easy Air Fryer Calzones for a Quick Dinner

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a warm, crispy, and cheesy dinner that comes together in minutes, these air fryer calzones are your new best friend. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, they combine gooey cheese, savory fillings, and a flaky crust, all cooked evenly in your air fryer. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a busy parent, these easy calzones are guaranteed to satisfy your pizza cravings with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Say goodbye to delivery delays — these quick dinner calzones are made in your kitchen, ready in no time!

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in 30 minutes — perfect for last-minute dinners.
• One-pot cooking — minimal cleanup with the air fryer.
• Customizable fillings — use your favorite ingredients like pepperoni, veggies, or chicken.
• Cripsy exterior— achieved effortlessly with the air fryer’s hot air circulation.
• Family-friendly — a fun meal that kids love and adults appreciate for its convenience.

3. Ingredient Notes

When making air fryer calzones, selecting high-quality ingredients makes all the difference. I prefer using fresh pizza dough, which creates a light yet sturdy crust, but you can also opt for store-bought dough for convenience. For fillings, a good quality mozzarella cheese melts beautifully and adds a rich, creamy texture.

For proteins, cooked and seasoned options like pepperoni slices or grilled chicken pieces work wonderfully. Vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach add freshness and color. Seasonings such as garlic powder, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes heighten the flavor. For best results, choose fresh or high-quality frozen ingredients and avoid overly wet fillings that might make the crust soggy.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

To make these easy calzones perfectly, a good air fryer is essential. I recommend the Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics, which offers versatile cooking modes and easy temperature control, ensuring even crisping. A rolling pin helps in shaping the dough smoothly, and a baking brush is ideal for sealing edges or brushing the tops with a bit of olive oil for extra crunch. Don’t forget a sharp knife or pizza cutter to neatly divide the calzones after baking.

5. How to Make Easy Air Fryer Calzones

Preparing the Dough

Start by dividing your pizza dough into equal portions, about the size of an orange. Roll each piece into a thin circle on a floured surface. The thinner you roll, the crispier the crust will become, but be careful not to tear the dough.

Adding Fillings

Place your fillings — cheese, meats, and veggies — on one half of the dough circle, leaving about a 1-inch border. Don’t overload the calzone; a balanced amount ensures easy folding and baking without leaks. Fold the dough over the fillings and pinch the edges tightly to seal, creating a half-moon shape. Use a fork to crimp the edges for extra security.

Baking in the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush the tops of the calzones with olive oil for a golden finish. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until crispy and golden brown. The aroma of baked dough and melting cheese will fill your kitchen.

6. Expert Tips for Success

• Seal thoroughly — ensuring the edges are pinched well prevents cheese from leaking out.
• Pre-cook fillings — if using raw proteins or veggies, pre-cook them to avoid sogginess and ensure thorough cooking.
• Adjust cooking time — thicker or larger calzones may need a few extra minutes; check for a crispy crust and melted cheese.
• Use parchment paper— for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking if your air fryer basket isn’t non-stick.

7. Variations & Substitutions

For a gluten-free version, swap regular dough for a gluten-free pizza crust or flatbread. To make vegan calzones, use plant-based cheese and fillings like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and grilled tofu. Interested in low-carb options? Use thinly sliced zucchini or portobello mushrooms as a wrapper instead of traditional dough. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative based on your dietary needs and taste preferences!

8. Storage & Reheating

Leftover calzones can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their crispy exterior and gooey center. Alternatively, microwave for quick reheating but expect a softer crust. To keep leftovers fresh, wrap them individually in foil or parchment paper.

9. FAQ

Can I assemble calzones ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them 1-2 hours before baking. Keep the unbaked calzones covered in the refrigerator to prevent drying out. Bake directly from chilled for the best crispy crust.

What sauces go well with these air fryer calzones?

Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic butter dipping sauces complement the flavors beautifully. For added zest, try a balsamic glaze or hot sauce.

Can I freeze unbaked calzones?

Absolutely. Wrap each calzone tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking in your air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-18 minutes, or until golden and hot.

10. Conclusion

In just a few simple steps, you can create delicious, crispy, and cheesy air fryer calzones that are perfect for a quick dinner or a fun snack. Their versatility allows you to customize fillings based on what you have on hand, making them a real kitchen MVP. With the right ingredients and tools, you’ll be enjoying homemade calzones in record time. Happy cooking!

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