Calzones are delicious Italian turnovers that are filled with a variety of ingredients like cheese, vegetables, and meat. Traditionally, calzones are baked in an oven, but with the rise of air fryers, it’s now possible to make a crispy and flavorful calzone without the need for a traditional oven. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of making a calzone in an air fryer, providing you with a delicious and easy recipe that you can enjoy in the comfort of your own home.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start making your calzone, it’s essential to gather all the necessary ingredients. For the dough, you will need all-purpose flour, yeast, salt, sugar, warm water, and olive oil. For the filling, you have the freedom to choose among various ingredients such as mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, cooked vegetables, cooked bacon, ham, or pepperoni. Be creative and use what you have in your pantry or fridge to create a unique and flavorful filling.
Making the Dough
To make the dough for your calzone, you will need to combine the all-purpose flour, yeast, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. Mix the dry ingredients together and then gradually add warm water and olive oil. Use your hands or a spoon to combine the ingredients until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Prepare the Filling
While the dough is resting, it’s time to prepare the filling for your calzone. As mentioned earlier, the filling options are diverse and entirely up to your personal taste. If you enjoy a cheesy calzone, you can mix shredded mozzarella and ricotta together. For a meaty calzone, add cooked bacon, ham, or pepperoni to your filling. You can also add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions for added flavor and texture. Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl and set them aside.
Dividing and Rolling the Dough
Once the dough has rested for at least 30 minutes and doubled in size, divide it into equal-sized portions. This will depend on the desired size of your calzone, but typically, you can make two to four calzones from one batch of dough. Take one portion of the dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface. Aim for a round or oval shape with a thickness of about ¼ inch.
Fill and Seal the Calzone
Now comes the fun part – filling and sealing the calzone! Take a generous amount of the prepared filling and place it on one half of the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Be mindful not to overstuff the calzone, as it may burst open during the cooking process. Once you’ve added the filling, carefully fold the other half of the dough over the top, enclosing the filling completely.
Crimping the Edges
To ensure that your calzone stays sealed during the cooking process, it’s crucial to crimp the edges together. Start by folding the bottom edge of the dough over the top edge. Then, using your fingers or a fork, press down and seal the edges. Continue going around the edges, creating a secure seal. This step will prevent any filling from leaking out while the calzone cooks.
Air Fryer Cooking Time
Now that your calzone is filled and sealed, it’s time to cook it in your air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the calzone in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave some space around it for proper air circulation. Depending on the size and thickness of your calzone, it will typically take about 12 to 15 minutes to cook. However, make sure to keep a close eye on it to prevent burning and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Once your calzone is beautifully golden brown and crispy, remove it from the air fryer. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing it into servings. You can serve the calzone as is or pair it with a side of marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping. This will add an extra burst of flavor to every bite.
Experiment with Flavors
Now that you have mastered the art of making a calzone in an air fryer, don’t be afraid to experiment with various flavors and fillings. You can try different cheeses, vegetables, or meats to create unique combinations that cater to your preferences. Whether you’re a fan of traditional ingredients or want to explore new flavor profiles, the air fryer allows for endless possibilities when it comes to making delicious calzones.
In conclusion, making a calzone in an air fryer is an excellent way to enjoy a crispy and flavorful treat without the need for a traditional oven. With a simple dough recipe and a variety of filling options, you can create a mouthwatering calzone that will impress your family and friends. So why wait? Grab your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and start experimenting with different flavors to make your own scrumptious calzone right at home.