Create Irresistible Air Fryer Calzones for Your Next Meal

Calling all calzone connoisseurs! Get ready to experience the magic of air fryer cooking with these incredibly easy and flavorful Air Fryer Calzones. Imagine perfectly golden-brown pockets of dough, oozing with melted cheese, juicy meats, and fresh veggies – all made right in the convenience of your air fryer. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or a fun family-friendly meal, these air fryer calzones are sure to satisfy your pizza cravings with a delightful twist.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Ingredients for Delectable Air Fryer Calzones

The key to mouthwatering air fryer calzones lies in the carefully selected ingredients. Let’s dive into the dough and filling components to understand their essential roles:

The Dough

• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the dough, providing structure and chewiness.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor, balancing the sweetness and bringing out the best in the other ingredients.
• Sugar: A small amount of sugar helps to activate the yeast and contributes to the golden-brown crust.
• Olive Oil: Adds moisture and a touch of richness to the dough, while also contributing to the flakiness.
• Instant Yeast: The key leavening agent that helps the dough rise, creating a light and airy texture.
• Warm Water: Activates the yeast and brings the dough together, ensuring a smooth and pliable consistency.

The Filling

• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully, creating that irresistible, gooey center.
• Cooked Chicken Ham and Turkey Bacon: Provide a delicious protein boost and savory flavor.
• Diced Bell Peppers: Add a crunchy texture and a pop of color to the filling.
• Sliced Mushrooms: Contribute an earthy, umami-rich element to the calzone.
• Garlic Powder and Dried Oregano: These seasonings heighten the Italian-inspired flavors.

The Egg Wash

The egg wash is a simple yet essential step that gives the air fryer calzones a gorgeous golden-brown sheen and crispy exterior.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Mouthwatering Air Fryer Calzones

Preparing the Dough

Begin by combining the all-purpose flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast in a large mixing bowl. Add the warm water and olive oil, and stir until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Assembling the Calzones

While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by mixing together the shredded mozzarella, cooked chicken ham, turkey bacon, diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into 6 equal portions and roll each one into a 6-inch circle on a floured surface. Place a generous spoonful of the filling mixture onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a border around the edges. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges firmly to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork to ensure a secure closure.

Cooking the Calzones in the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes. Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Carefully place the calzones in the basket, making sure they are not touching. Air fry the calzones for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Serving and Enjoying Your Air Fryer Calzones

Allow the air fryer calzones to cool for a few minutes before serving. These handheld treats are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Get creative and experiment with different fillings to suit your taste buds – the possibilities are endless!

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones
• Chicken Alfredo Flatbread
• Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Garlic Bread Bombs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I ensure my air fryer calzones come out crispy instead of soggy?

To achieve crispy air fryer calzones, consider the following tips: First, ensure that the dough is rolled out to an even thickness, as uneven dough can lead to uneven cooking. Secondly, do not overfill your calzones, as excess filling can cause moisture to build up inside, leading to sogginess. It’s also beneficial to preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature before cooking; this helps to create a crispy exterior quickly. Lastly, lightly brush the outside of the calzones with oil or egg wash before cooking to enhance browning and crispiness.

Can I customize the dough for my air fryer calzones, and if so, how?

Yes, you can customize the dough for your air fryer calzones. For a healthier option, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or use alternative flours like almond or coconut flour for a gluten-free version. Additionally, you can infuse flavor into the dough by adding herbs like garlic powder, oregano, or basil into the flour mixture. If you prefer a richer taste, consider incorporating a bit of grated Parmesan cheese into the dough.

What is the best way to reheat air fryer calzones without making them tough?

To reheat air fryer calzones without making them tough, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and then place the calzones in the basket. Heat them for about 4-6 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking. Alternatively, you can wrap the calzones in aluminum foil to retain moisture while reheating. This method helps preserve the texture and keeps the calzones from drying out.

Are there any tips for cooking multiple air fryer calzones at once?

When cooking multiple air fryer calzones at once, it’s essential to ensure proper airflow for even cooking. Arrange the calzones in a single layer without overcrowding the basket, allowing space between each calzone. If your air fryer has a smaller capacity, consider cooking in batches. Additionally, you can flip the calzones halfway through the cooking time to help them cook evenly. If you’re preparing a large quantity, preheat your air fryer between batches to maintain consistent cooking temperatures.

Conclusion

Embrace the convenience and crispiness of air fryer calzones for your next mealtime adventure. With their irresistible flavors and easy-to-follow instructions, these handheld pockets of goodness are sure to become a new family favorite. So, preheat your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of homemade air fryer calzones!

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