Cody Casey
Calzone is a delicious Italian dish that can be easily made in an air fryer, offering a quick and convenient way to enjoy this classic pizza-like creation. This method allows you to achieve a crispy, golden exterior and a soft, fluffy interior, all while minimizing the need for a traditional oven. By following a few simple steps, you can create a mouth-watering calzone with a crispy base and a savory filling, perfect for a quick meal or a fun dinner with friends and family.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cooking Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Temperature | 375°F (190°C) |
| Preheat | Yes, preheat the air fryer for 5 minutes |
| Oil | Optional, but recommended for even cooking |
| Toppings | Cheese, pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, peppers, olives, etc. |
| Crust | Thinner than traditional calzones, can be made with pizza dough or a simple bread dough |
| Folding | Fold the calzone in half, ensuring the toppings are evenly distributed |
| Cooking Method | Place the calzone in the air fryer basket, cook until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted |
| Serving | Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving |
| Tips | Use a toothpick to check if the calzone is cooked through, avoid overfilling to prevent spillage |
What You'll Learn
Prepare Ingredients: Gather dough, sauce, cheese, and toppings
To begin your calzone-making journey, it's essential to gather all the necessary ingredients and tools. First, you'll need to prepare the dough, which is the foundation of your calzone. You can either make your own dough from scratch or use a pre-made pizza dough, ensuring it's soft and pliable. If making your own, a simple recipe involves mixing flour, salt, warm water, and yeast, then kneading and letting it rise until doubled in size.
Next, prepare your calzone sauce. A classic tomato-based sauce is a popular choice, but you can also use a pesto or a creamy alfredo sauce for a different flavor profile. Heat your chosen sauce in a pan or microwave until warm, ensuring it's not too hot to handle.
Now, it's time to gather your cheese and toppings. For the cheese, a blend of mozzarella and cheddar is commonly used, but you can experiment with different types like provolone or parmesan. Toppings can include a variety of meats such as pepperoni, sausage, or ham, as well as vegetables like mushrooms, peppers, onions, and olives. Ensure all toppings are finely chopped or sliced to fit comfortably within the calzone.
Organize your ingredients on a clean work surface. Have your dough ready, along with the prepared sauce and an assortment of cheese and toppings. This organized setup will make the assembly process much smoother and more efficient.
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Shape the Dough: Roll out dough, add fillings, and seal
To begin shaping your calzone, you'll want to start with a well-prepared dough. First, ensure your dough is on a lightly floured surface. You can use a rolling pin to gently roll the dough out into a circle or an oval shape, aiming for a thickness of about 1/4 inch. This even thickness will ensure your calzone cooks evenly. Once the dough is rolled out, it's time to get creative with the fillings.
For the filling, you can get as creative as you like. A traditional calzone often includes a combination of cheese, such as mozzarella or provolone, and your choice of meats like pepperoni or sausage. You can also add vegetables like mushrooms, peppers, or onions. Spread the fillings evenly across the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. This border will help seal the calzone, ensuring all the delicious flavors stay locked inside.
Now, it's time to seal the deal. Fold the edges of the dough over the fillings, pressing them together to create a sealed package. You can get creative with the shape here; some might prefer a classic half-moon shape, while others might opt for a more rounded calzone. Ensure the seams are well-pressed to avoid any air pockets that could cause the calzone to puff up unevenly during cooking.
To add an extra touch, you can brush the top of the calzone with some beaten egg before cooking. This will give it a golden, crispy finish. Once your calzone is shaped and sealed, it's ready for the air fryer. Place it in the air fryer basket, ensuring it's not overcrowded, and cook at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remember, the key to a successful calzone is a well-shaped dough that seals in all the delicious fillings. Take your time with this step, and don't be afraid to get creative with your fillings and shape. Enjoy your homemade calzone, cooked to perfection in the air fryer!
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Air Fry: Cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway
To cook a calzone in an air fryer, you'll need to prepare the dough and filling first. Start by making the dough, which is similar to pizza dough. Mix flour, salt, warm water, and yeast together until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for a few minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled in size.
While the dough rises, prepare your calzone filling. A traditional calzone often includes a simple tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and your choice of toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, or onions. Spread a thin layer of sauce on the dough, leaving a border around the edges. Sprinkle cheese and toppings over the sauce.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to remove any air bubbles. Roll it out into a circle or rectangle, depending on your preference for the calzone's shape. Place the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Now, for the air frying process: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the calzone in the air fryer basket, ensuring it's not overcrowded. Cook for approximately 10-12 minutes, flipping the calzone halfway through the cooking time. The exact time may vary depending on your air fryer and the thickness of your calzone, so keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn't burn.
When the calzone is cooked, it should have a golden-brown color and the cheese should be melted and bubbly. Remove it from the air fryer and let it cool slightly before serving. This method of cooking calzones in an air fryer is a quick and convenient way to enjoy a delicious, crispy Italian dish.
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Topping Tips: Use a variety of cheeses and meats for flavor
When it comes to crafting a delicious calzone, the toppings are a crucial element that can elevate your dish to new heights. The key to a flavorful calzone is to experiment with different combinations of cheeses and meats, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Here are some topping tips to inspire your culinary creations:
Cheese Selection: Calzones are renowned for their cheesy goodness, and the type of cheese you choose can significantly impact the overall flavor. Opt for a combination of mozzarella, which provides a classic, stretchy texture, and a harder cheese like cheddar or provolone for added depth and a sharper taste. You can also experiment with blue cheese or feta for a more unique, pungent flavor. The variety of cheeses will not only enhance the taste but also create a visually appealing contrast on your calzone.
Meat Matters: The choice of meat is another essential aspect of your calzone's flavor profile. Go beyond the traditional pepperoni and try different options. Sliced ham adds a subtle, savory note, while cooked ground beef or Italian sausage brings a hearty, spicy kick. For a vegetarian-friendly option, consider adding grilled mushrooms, caramelized onions, or even roasted peppers for a burst of flavor. The key is to balance the meats and cheeses to create a well-rounded and satisfying calzone.
Layering Technique: When assembling your calzone, pay attention to the layering process. Start with a thin layer of tomato sauce as a base, then add your chosen cheeses and meats. Ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed, creating a flavorful layer. You can also add some chopped herbs, such as basil or oregano, for an extra burst of freshness. Roll the calzone tightly, ensuring the filling is secure, and then press the seams to seal it.
Air Fryer Cooking: When it comes to cooking your calzone in an air fryer, the key is to keep it crispy and golden. Place the calzone in the air fryer basket, ensuring it's not overcrowded. Cook at a temperature of around 375°F (190°C) for approximately 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. The air fryer's rapid air circulation will help create a crispy exterior while keeping the filling warm and melted.
By experimenting with different cheeses and meats, you can create a calzone that suits your taste preferences. Remember, the more creative you are with your toppings, the more unique and delicious your calzone will be. Enjoy the process of crafting your own culinary masterpiece!
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Finish and Serve: Let it cool slightly, then slice and enjoy
Once your calzone is cooked to perfection, it's time to finish and serve it. The key here is to let it cool slightly, as handling it straight from the air fryer can be tricky and potentially messy. This step is crucial to ensure the calzone holds its shape and doesn't fall apart when you try to slice it.
Let the calzone rest for about 5-10 minutes. This cooling period allows the filling to set and the dough to firm up slightly, making it easier to handle and cut. While it cools, you can prepare any additional toppings or sides you'd like to serve with it.
When the calzone has cooled enough, use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to carefully slice it into even pieces. You can cut it into triangles or rectangles, whichever shape you prefer. If you're serving a large group, consider cutting it into smaller portions to make it easier for everyone to enjoy.
Serve the calzone warm or at room temperature. It's best to eat it soon after cooking, as it's at its most delicious and crispy when fresh. You can garnish with fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for an extra touch of flavor.
Enjoy your homemade calzone! This quick and easy air-fried version is a fantastic way to satisfy your pizza cravings without the need for a traditional oven. Feel free to experiment with different fillings and toppings to create your own unique calzone combinations.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, absolutely! Air fryers are a great alternative to traditional ovens for making calzones, as they can help achieve a crispy exterior and a perfectly cooked filling.
First, prepare your calzone dough and fill it with your favorite ingredients like cheese, pepperoni, or vegetables. Then, place the calzone in the air fryer basket, ensuring it's not overcrowded. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted.
To prevent sogginess, it's important to use a thin, crispy dough and not overload the calzone with too many fillings. Make sure to brush the dough with a little olive oil before adding the toppings, and consider using a pre-made pizza dough or making a thin, flatbread-style dough for better results.
Yes, you can use frozen dough directly. Just ensure the dough is thawed slightly to allow for even cooking. You can also roll out the dough yourself if you prefer a more customized shape and texture.
For an air fryer, a temperature of 375°F (190°C) is ideal. Cooking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of your calzone, but a good starting point is 10-12 minutes. Always keep an eye on your calzone and adjust the time as needed to avoid overcooking.
