Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I pulled the first batch of air fryer calzones from the basket, the aroma wafted through my kitchen, igniting my senses. Crispy on the outside and bursting with savory fillings on the inside, these calzones quickly became a go-to for my family. With a delightful mix of tender dough, shredded chicken ham, and turkey bacon, they’re not only easy to whip up but also perfect for those busy weeknight dinners when time is at a premium. Whether it’s lunch, a snack, or a fun dinner option, these Air Fryer Calzones are versatile and crowd-pleasing, making them a delightful addition to your meal rotation. What creative fillings will you try in yours? Why are air fryer calzones a must-try? Crispy Perfection: The air fryer gives these calzones an irresistible golden-brown crunch, making every bite a delight. Quick & Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have these tasty treats ready in no time, perfect for a busy weeknight. Versatile Fillings: Customize with your favorite ingredients! From classic meats to vibrant veggies, the options are endless. Family Favorite: These handheld meals are guaranteed to impress both kids and adults, making them an instant hit at the dinner table. Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep batches in advance and freeze, ensuring a delicious homemade option is always at hand! Dive into the full experience with my Serving Suggestions to elevate your mealtime! Air Fryer Calzone Ingredients For the Dough • All-Purpose Flour – This forms the backbone of your calzones; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-sensitive option. • Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; avoid direct substitutions unless you’re cutting sodium. • Sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness to the dough; feel free to omit for a strictly savory version. • Olive Oil – Contributes moisture and richness; any neutral oil can be used as a substitute. • Instant Yeast – Helps the dough rise; active dry yeast works too, but needs extra activation time. • Warm Water – Activates the yeast; ensure it’s around 110°F (43°C) for optimal results. For the Filling • Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Offers a creamy, melty goodness; swap for cheddar or provolone for a unique twist. • Cooked Chicken Ham – Acts as a protein source; diced cooked chicken is a great alternative, or omit for vegetarian calzones. • Turkey Bacon – Adds a delightful smoky flavor; replace with regular bacon or skip for a vegetarian option. • Bell Peppers – Introduce crunch and color; any favorite vegetables like spinach or zucchini can work here. • Sliced Mushrooms – Brings earthy notes to the filling; you can either omit them or substitute with other veggies. • Garlic Powder & Dried Oregano – Elevate the flavor profile; fresh herbs can provide a lovely fresh twist. For the Egg Wash • Egg – This gives the calzones a beautiful golden finish; you can omit it for a vegan version or use a vegan egg wash substitute. With these air fryer calzone ingredients, you’re just steps away from creating a fabulous meal that’s both satisfying and fun to make. What delicious fillings will ignite your culinary creativity? Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer Calzones Step 1: Prepare Dough In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast. Gradually add warm water (around 110°F/43°C) and olive oil. Stir the mixture until a dough begins to form. It should be slightly sticky yet manageable. Once combined, let it rest for a few minutes to help with the next step. Step 2: Knead Dough Transfer the dough to a floured surface and sprinkle a little extra flour on top to prevent sticking. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, using your palms to push it in and fold it over. It should become smooth and elastic. This process develops the gluten, which is crucial for your air fryer calzones’ structure. Step 3: Let Dough Rise Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and set it in a warm place. Allow the dough to rise for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. You’re looking for a fluffy texture that promises delicious calzones. Step 4: Prepare Fillings While the dough rises, cook your turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooled, chop the bacon and combine it in a bowl with shredded mozzarella, chopped cooked chicken ham, bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to create a savory filling for your air fryer calzones. Step 5: Divide and Roll Dough After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Divide it into six equal portions and roll each piece into a circle about 6 inches in diameter on a floured surface. This thin, circular shape will hold all your delicious fillings, so aim for a uniform thickness for even cooking. Step 6: Assemble Calzones Spoon a generous amount of the filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving about half an inch at the edges. Carefully fold the other half over the filling and pinch the edges to seal well. Use a fork to crimp the edges, ensuring no filling escapes while air frying, and creating a beautiful design on your air fryer calzones. Step 7: Apply Egg Wash To achieve that gorgeous golden finish, beat an egg in a small bowl. Using a pastry brush, apply a thin layer of the egg wash over the top of each calzone. This step not only enhances the color but also adds a slight sheen, making your air fryer calzones visually appealing. Step 8: Preheat Air Fryer Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for achieving a perfectly crispy outer layer. While it warms up, you can get your calzones ready, ensuring they cook evenly once placed inside. Step 9: Cook Calzones Carefully place two to three calzones in the air fryer basket, leaving enough space in between for air circulation. Cook them for about 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even browning. Keep an eye on the calzones; they should become golden brown and crisp to the touch as they cook. Step 10: Serve Once the air fryer calzones are beautifully golden, remove them and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. This cooling allows the filling to set slightly, making them easier to handle. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce for a delightful treat! Air Fryer Calzones Variations & Substitutions Feel free to explore your culinary creativity and make these calzones truly your own with a few simple swaps! Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy. Cheese Lover: Swap out mozzarella for a blend of your favorites like pepper jack or gouda for a delightful flavor twist. Vegetarian Delight: Omit meats and add extra veggies like spinach, artichokes, or shredded carrots for a hearty, veggie-packed option. These colorful alternatives can elevate the nutritional value while keeping every delicious bite satisfying. Spicy Kick: Turn up the heat by adding sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to your filling. A little heat goes a long way in enhancing flavors! Savory Sauce: Instead of an egg wash, brush the tops with pesto for a zesty herbal flavor that complements the dough beautifully. This extra layer of taste can transform your calzone into a gourmet treat. Homemade Dipping Sauce: Pair with a homemade marinara or garlic butter dipping sauce for an irresistible meal. A tasty dip elevates the entire sensory experience! Classic Italian: Add Italian sausage to your fillings for a classic meat option that brings hearty flavors reminiscent of traditional calzones. It’s a delicious way to keep the spirit of Italian cuisine alive! Breakfast Calzones: Transform these into breakfast delights by using scrambled eggs, cheese, and diced bacon or sausage. They make a fantastic anytime meal that’s both satisfying and convenient! Experiment with these variations while enjoying the creativity of cooking! For more inspiring ideas, check out my tips on Serving Suggestions to make your meal even more delightful! How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Calzones Room Temperature: Let cooked calzones cool completely before storing them at room temperature for up to 2 hours. Consume within the same day for best taste. Fridge: Store leftover air fryer calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven for a crispy texture. Freezer: To freeze unbaked calzones, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheating: When ready to cook frozen calzones, no need to thaw; air fry straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for an extra few minutes until golden and heated through. Expert Tips for Air Fryer Calzones Avoid Soggy Fillings: Ensure all filling ingredients are well-drained and not watery to keep your air fryer calzones crispy. Pre-make Dough: You can prepare the dough in advance and keep it refrigerated for up to 24 hours. This allows for convenient last-minute meals. Customize Freely: Feel free to experiment with different meats, cheeses, and vegetables to create your own signature air fryer calzones! Don’t Overcrowd: For perfectly cooked calzones, place just 2-3 at a time in your air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness. Check Cooking Time: Air fryers can vary in performance, so monitor your calzones closely towards the end of cooking for that ideal golden brown finish. Make Ahead Options These Air Fryer Calzones are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing and kneading it, then refrigerating it in an oiled bowl covered in plastic wrap. For added efficiency, you can also chop and combine your filling ingredients (like cooked chicken ham and turkey bacon) up to 3 days ahead; just ensure to keep them refrigerated. When you’re ready to cook, simply roll out the chilled dough, assemble the calzones, apply the egg wash, and air fry them as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy crispy, delicious calzones with minimal effort, even on the busiest of nights! What to Serve with Crispy Air Fryer Calzones? These delightful calzones invite a world of complementary flavors and textures to create a memorable meal experience. Garlic Breadsticks: The perfect crunchy side, these breadsticks enhance the Italian feel and pair beautifully with marinara sauce for dipping. Caesar Salad: Fresh, crisp romaine with a creamy dressing and crunchy croutons offers a pleasant contrast to the warm, cheesy calzones. Marinara Dipping Sauce: Classic red sauce adds a tangy zing that elevates the flavor of your calzones, making every bite even more delicious. Roasted Vegetables: Serve a medley of colorful, seasoned veggies for a nutritious and crunchy balance alongside the crispy calzones. Creamy Pesto Pasta: Rich pesto-coated pasta complements the calzones’ flavors, creating a hearty meal that’s simply irresistible. Stuffed Peppers: Roasted bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice serve as a fresh side that pairs wonderfully with the savory fillings inside your calzones. Sparkling Lemonade: Refreshing and zesty, this drink will cleanse your palate and add a bright note to your meal, enhancing the overall dining experience. Each of these pairings brings its own unique charm, ensuring your air-fryer calzones become the centerpiece of a delightful spread! Air Fryer Calzones Recipe FAQs How do I know if my ingredients are ripe or fresh enough? Absolutely! When selecting fresh vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms, look for ones that are firm and vibrant, without any dark spots or blemishes. The colors should be bright, indicating freshness. For the meat options, ensure they are cooked thoroughly beforehand, and keep an eye on the expiration dates of your cheese and deli meats as well. What is the best way to store leftover air fryer calzones? Very! To store leftover air fryer calzones, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. Can I freeze unbaked air fryer calzones? Absolutely! To freeze unbaked calzones, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, there’s no need to thaw; just air fry at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 3-5 minutes to ensure they cook through evenly. What should I do if my calzone dough doesn’t rise properly? If your calzone dough doesn’t rise properly, it could be due to dead yeast. Be sure to check the expiration date on your yeast packet and use warm water around 110°F (43°C) to activate it. If the dough hasn’t risen after 1.5 hours, try a warm place (like near a preheated oven) or gently warming the bowl with warm water on the outside. Always knead the dough until it’s elastic, which helps with rising. Is it possible to make this recipe vegan or gluten-free? The more the merrier! For a vegan version of air fryer calzones, substitute the egg wash with a non-dairy milk or an egg substitute for the shine. For a gluten-free option, use a blend of gluten-free flour and xanthan gum to mimic the texture of all-purpose flour. Check that all fillings, like the turkey bacon and chicken ham, are also made from vegan sources. Can I give air fryer calzones to my pets? While these calzones are delicious for humans, it’s best to avoid sharing them with pets. Ingredients like cheese, garlic, and certain spices can be harmful to animals. It’s always wise to stick to pet-specific treats to keep your furry friends safe! Deliciously Crispy Air Fryer Calzones You’ll Love Making These Air Fryer Calzones are crispy on the outside and bursting with savory fillings, making them a go-to for family dinners. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsRising Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes minsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 15 minutes mins Servings: 6 calzonesCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Dough Ingredients3 cups All-Purpose Flour Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-sensitive option.1 tsp Salt Avoid direct substitutions unless cutting sodium.1 tbsp Sugar Feel free to omit for a strictly savory version.2 tbsp Olive Oil Any neutral oil can be used as a substitute.1 tbsp Instant Yeast Active dry yeast can be used but needs extra activation time.1 cup Warm Water Ensure it’s around 110°F (43°C) for optimal results.Filling Ingredients1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Swap for cheddar or provolone for a unique twist.1 cup Cooked Chicken Ham Diced cooked chicken is a great alternative.1 cup Turkey Bacon Replace with regular bacon or omit for a vegetarian option.1 cup Bell Peppers Any favorite vegetables can work here.1 cup Sliced Mushrooms Substitute with other veggies if desired.1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh herbs can provide a lovely fresh twist.1 tsp Dried Oregano Fresh herbs can provide a lovely fresh twist.Egg Wash1 large Egg Omit for a vegan version or use a vegan egg wash substitute. Equipment Air FryerMixing bowlSkilletPastry BrushRolling Pin Method Prepare DoughIn a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast. Gradually add warm water and olive oil, stirring until a dough forms. Let it rest for a few minutes.Knead DoughTransfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.Let Dough RisePlace the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours until doubled in size.Prepare FillingsCook turkey bacon in a skillet until crispy, then chop and mix with remaining filling ingredients.Divide and Roll DoughPunch down the risen dough, divide into six portions, and roll each into a 6-inch circle.Assemble CalzonesSpoon filling onto one half of each dough circle, fold over, and seal the edges well.Apply Egg WashBeat the egg and brush a thin layer over the top of each calzone.Preheat Air FryerPreheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for optimal cooking.Cook CalzonesPlace 2-3 calzones in the basket and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.ServeRemove calzones, let cool slightly, and serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1calzoneCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 15gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 680mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesThese calzones can be prepared in advance and frozen for later use. Customize your fillings for creative variations. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
