Introduction to 20-Minute Air Fryer Calzones
When it comes to quick and delicious meals, 20-Minute Air Fryer Calzones are the ultimate solution for young professionals on the go. Imagine walking in after a long day at work and having a warm, customizable calzone ready in just 20 minutes! The best part? You can fill it with your favorite ingredients, whether you prefer classic mozzarella and pepperoni or want to get creative with fresh veggies and Turkey Bacon.
Air fryers are a game-changer in the kitchen. They cook food evenly and give you that delightful crispy texture without the extra oil that frying usually requires. With pre-made pizza dough, whipping up these calzones becomes not only easy but also incredibly satisfying. Just think about it: in less time than it takes to watch an episode of your favorite show, you can enjoy a homemade meal that feels like a treat.
Looking to impress friends during a casual dinner? These calzones are perfect for sharing — cut them into smaller pieces for a savory appetizer or serve them alongside a fresh salad. In the hustle of a young professional's life, having a go-to recipe like this can be a real lifesaver. So, let’s dive into this recipe and get cooking!
Ingredients for 20-Minute Air Fryer Calzones
Essential Ingredients for Flavorful Calzones
When whipping up these quick and delicious 20-Minute Air Fryer Calzones Recipe, you'll want a blend of simple yet bold ingredients:
- 1 lb pizza dough: You can go with homemade or store-bought for convenience.
- All-purpose flour: A little dusting helps when rolling out the dough.
- ½ cup pizza sauce: For that classic, tangy flavor – consider making your own with ripe tomatoes or using a high-quality jarred version.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella: The star of the show; feel free to mix in other cheeses like provolone or parmesan for extra flavor!
- Toppings of your choice: Think pepperoni, Turkey Bacon, veggies, or Chicken Ham to personalize your calzones.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: A light brush for crispiness and flavor.
Optional Toppings for Customization
The beauty of calzones lies in their versatility. You can truly make them your own! Some scrumptious ideas include:
- Sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers
- Fresh herbs like basil or oregano
- Spicy ingredients such as jalapeños or red pepper flakes
- A drizzle of balsamic glaze after cooking for a gourmet touch
What are your favorite toppings? The possibilities are endless, so get creative! For more inspiration, check out how to customize your pizza creations on Sustainable Cooks.
Preparing 20-Minute Air Fryer Calzones
Making your very own 20-Minute Air Fryer Calzones is not only super quick but also a whole lot of fun! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual snack, these calzones are customizable to your taste, allowing you to get creative in the kitchen. Let’s dive into the process step by step!
Gather Your Ingredients and Tools
Before you start, it's essential to round up all the ingredients and tools you'll need for your calzones. Here’s what you should have on hand:
- 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
- All-purpose flour (for dusting and working the dough)
- ½ cup pizza sauce (choose your favorite brand or make your own!)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Toppings of your choice (think turkey bacon, chicken ham, vegetables, etc.)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for a delicious golden finish)
Tools Required:
- A trusty air fryer
- Air fryer parchment sheets for easy cleanup
- A mixing bowl for assembling your ingredients
Prepare the Pizza Dough
If you’re using store-bought pizza dough, allow it to come to room temperature for easier handling. For homemade dough, be sure to follow your favorite recipe and, if you’re making it from scratch, remember to allow extra time for the dough to rise. Once ready, divide the dough into eight equal pieces, which will yield plenty of calzones!
Assemble the Calzones
Now comes the fun part! Take one piece of the dough and roll it into a 6-inch circle, aiming for about ⅛ inch in thickness. Make sure to sprinkle some all-purpose flour on your surface to prevent sticking.
Spread about 1-2 tablespoons of pizza sauce on one half of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border clear. Then, add approximately 3 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella along with your chosen toppings—whether it's turkey bacon, chicken ham, veggies, or a mix of everything!
Once filled, fold the dough over the toppings and pinch the edges to seal. To ensure that steam escapes, use a knife to cut a couple of small vents on top. Don’t skip this step; it’s crucial for crafting the perfect calzone!
Air Fry the Calzones to Crispy Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 370°F. Lightly brush the basket with olive oil and place 1-2 calzones inside, depending on the size of your air fryer. Cook for 9 minutes, but check at the 7-minute mark—air fryers can vary in cooking times.
Enjoy Your Delicious Creation
After the timer goes off, carefully remove the calzones and let them cool for a minute. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy your homemade 20-Minute Air Fryer Calzones! This quick, satisfying meal is sure to become a staple in your home. Happy cooking!
Variations on 20-Minute Air Fryer Calzones
Creating your own 20-Minute Air Fryer Calzones Recipe leaves endless possibilities for delicious variations. Here are two crowd-pleasers that cater to varying tastes!
Vegetarian Calzones Packed with Veggies
For a vibrant, meat-free option, try stuffing your calzones with a medley of seasonal vegetables. Spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms pair beautifully with ricotta and mozzarella. Toss in some basil for an aromatic kick! Not only are these calzones a treat for your taste buds, but they also deliver a healthy dose of nutrients. Check out some more veggie ideas here.
Meaty Calzones Featuring Chicken Ham and Turkey Bacon
If you’re craving something heartier, consider a meaty filling. Combine flavorful chicken ham and crispy turkey bacon with gooey cheese for a savory delight. Adding a touch of your favorite spices will enhance the flavor even more. These calzones are perfect for meat-lovers looking for a quick meal. For more meat variations, explore this link.
Now you’re set to customize your calzones and impress friends or family at your next meal!
Cooking tips and notes for 20-Minute Air Fryer Calzones
Tips for handling pizza dough
Working with pizza dough can be a breeze if you keep a few tips in mind! First, always flour your surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking. If using store-bought dough, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before rolling to make it more pliable. Remember, it's all about patience! If your dough springs back while rolling, let it rest for a few minutes before trying again.
How to avoid soggy calzones
Nobody enjoys a soggy calzone! To keep yours crispy, avoid overfilling. Stick to 2-3 tablespoons of sauce and be sure to seal the edges tightly. Using a little olive oil on the air fryer basket and the top of the calzone also helps promote browning and crispiness. For a tasty twist, consider pre-cooking any watery ingredients, like veggies, to reduce moisture before adding them to your calzone.
*Try these tips for a perfect batch of your *20-Minute Air Fryer Calzones Recipe, and enjoy your delicious treat in no time!
Serving suggestions for 20-Minute Air Fryer Calzones
Best dips and side dishes to pair with calzones
When serving your 20-Minute Air Fryer Calzones, consider delicious dips and sides that complement their savory goodness. Here are some favorites:
- Marinara Sauce: A classic choice for dipping.
- Garlic Aioli: Adds a rich, creamy flavor.
- Pesto: For a fresh, herby touch.
- Side Salad: A light, crisp salad balances the rich calzones.
How to present calzones for a casual dinner
For a relaxed dinner vibe, arrange your calzones on a rustic wooden board, along with small bowls of dips. Scatter some fresh herbs around and a few lemon wedges for zest. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also invites your guests to dig in and customize their bites. Who doesn’t love a hands-on dining experience?
This presentation will surely impress your guests while keeping things fun and easy!
Time Breakdown for 20-Minute Air Fryer Calzones
Preparation Time
For the 20-Minute Air Fryer Calzones Recipe, you'll want to spend about 10 minutes getting everything ready. This includes rolling out your pizza dough, adding your favorite fillings, and sealing those delicious calzones. Quick, right?
Cooking Time
Pop those bad boys into the air fryer for roughly 9 minutes at 370˚F. Keep an eye out—at around the 7-minute mark, do a little check to ensure they’re cooking to fluffy perfection!
Total Time
From prep to plate, you’re looking at a total of around 19 minutes for this recipe. Talk about a speedy, satisfying meal! Want something even quicker? Consider using pre-made pizza dough if you're in a pinch. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Facts for 20-Minute Air Fryer Calzones
Calories per Calzone
Each 20-Minute Air Fryer Calzone packs approximately 243 calories. This makes it a satisfying yet manageable choice for a quick meal or snack.
Protein Content
You'll get a decent boost of 11 grams of protein per calzone, primarily from the mozzarella cheese and any optional toppings, like turkey bacon or chicken ham.
Sodium Levels per Serving
Keep in mind, these calzones have 658 mg of sodium per serving. While delicious, it’s wise to enjoy them in moderation, especially if you're watching your sodium intake.
For more tips on healthy eating habits, consider checking trusted sources like the American Heart Association. Enjoy your cooking!
FAQ about 20-Minute Air Fryer Calzones
Can I use store-bought dough for calzones?
Absolutely! Using store-bought pizza dough is a fantastic shortcut for making these calzones. It saves time while still delivering great flavor. You can typically find it in the refrigerated section of your grocery store. Just remember to let it come to room temperature for easier rolling!
What other fillings can I use?
The beauty of the 20-Minute Air Fryer Calzones Recipe lies in its versatility! Feel free to get creative with your fillings. You can try:
- Vegetable options: Spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions
- Proteins: Cooked chicken ham, turkey bacon, or even a veggie sausage
- Cheeses: Ricotta, feta, or a blend for an extra cheesy delight
The possibilities are endless!
How do I store leftover calzones?
If you find yourself with any leftovers (though it’s hard not to gobble them up), store your calzones in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their delicious crispiness!
Conclusion on 20-Minute Air Fryer Calzones
Homemade calzones are truly worth the effort! With a bit of creativity, you can whip up these delicious 20-Minute Air Fryer Calzones tailored to your taste preferences. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, they offer a delightful, crispy bite that store-bought alternatives can’t match. Enjoy!
20-Minute Air Fryer Calzones Recipe
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Air Fryer Parchment
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
Dough and Fillings
- 1 lb pizza dough homemade or storebought
- all-purpose flour for working with the dough
- ½ cup pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella
- toppings of your choice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Preparation
- Divide the dough into 8 equally sized pieces.
- Working with 1 piece at a time, roll pizza dough into a 6-inch circle to the thickness of ~⅛ inch.
- Spread 1-2 tablespoon of pizza sauce on one half of the circle, leaving a 1-inch border.
- Add ~3 tablespoon cheese and ~2 tablespoon various toppings to each calzone.
- Fold the clean side of the dough up and over the filled side.
- Gently twist and pinch the edges together to seal the calzone. Use a knife to cut 2-3 vents in the top.
- Brush olive oil on the basket of the air fryer AND the top of the calzone.
- Place 1-2 calzones in the air fryer and bake at 370˚F for 9 minutes (check at 7 minutes since all air fryers will bake slightly differently).
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