These crazy easy air fryer calzones are the ultimate shortcut to a cheesy, crispy, golden-brown pocket of deliciousness. Made with store-bought or homemade dough and your favorite pizza fillings, they’re quick to assemble and even faster to cook, thanks to the magic of the air fryer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re craving comfort food with minimal effort, this air fryer calzone recipe has your back. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, picky eaters, or even a quick lunch. You’ll love how the air fryer gives you that perfect crisp crust in a fraction of the time it takes to bake. Plus, the filling options are endless—customize to your heart’s content!

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
Marinara or pizza sauce
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Pepperoni, sausage, or other preferred meats
Diced vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms
Olive oil or non-stick cooking spray
Italian seasoning (optional)
Garlic powder (optional)
Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish)

directions

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the pizza dough into circles, about 6–8 inches in diameter.
Spread a spoonful of marinara or pizza sauce on one half of each circle, leaving the edges clear.
Add shredded mozzarella and your choice of fillings—meat, veggies, or both.
Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and press the edges with a fork to seal.
Lightly brush the tops with olive oil or spray with cooking spray. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and garlic powder if using.
Place calzones in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one.
Air fry for 8–10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Remove, let cool slightly, and enjoy!

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 calzones.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Cheesy Spinach Calzones: Add ricotta and sautéed spinach for a vegetarian twist.
Buffalo Chicken: Use shredded rotisserie chicken, buffalo sauce, and blue cheese.
Breakfast Calzones: Fill with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheddar.
Hawaiian: Ham and pineapple for that sweet-savory combo.
Mini Calzones: Make smaller versions for appetizers or kids.

storage/reheating

Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, pop them back into the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but the crust will be softer.

FAQs

How do I keep the calzones from bursting open in the air fryer?

Make sure to seal the edges well by pressing with a fork and avoid overfilling the dough.

Can I use puff pastry instead of pizza dough?

Yes, puff pastry works great for a flakier texture—just adjust the cooking time slightly to avoid burning.

Do I need to flip the calzones during air frying?

No flipping is necessary; they cook evenly without flipping when spaced well.

Can I freeze calzones?

Yes, assemble them and freeze before cooking. When ready, air fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

How long do homemade calzones last in the fridge?

They stay fresh for about 3 days when stored in an airtight container.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely—just use a gluten-free pizza dough alternative.

What dipping sauces go well with calzones?

Marinara, ranch, garlic butter, or even spicy sriracha mayo are all great options.

Can I use leftover meats or veggies?

Yes, leftovers are perfect! Just chop them small and avoid adding too much moisture.

How do I get a golden-brown finish?

Brush the tops with olive oil or egg wash before air frying.

Are air fryer calzones healthier than deep-fried ones?

Yes, they use far less oil and still come out crispy and delicious.

Conclusion

Air fryer calzones are the perfect easy meal or snack that tastes like it came straight from your favorite pizza joint. With a crisp golden crust, gooey cheese, and customizable fillings, these hand-held delights are a family favorite made faster and healthier in the air fryer. Try different versions and keep them in your rotation for when you need something quick, satisfying, and crazy easy.

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