If youre one of those barbecue enthusiasts looking to dabble in the world of air frying, you might find yourself asking, 'how long to cook calzone in air fryer'? This might seem like a daunting question, especially if youre well-versed in grilling meats and veggies over an open flame. Fear not, for in this extensive article, we will delve into this very topic. Whether you're an air fryer novice or a seasoned expert, we promise that this journey will be both delicious and informative.
Introduction to Air Frying Calzones
Air fryers have been making waves in the culinary world, offering a healthier way to enjoy fried foods without sacrificing flavor. But did you know they can also be used to cook calzones to perfection? Yes, your favorite Italian turnover can achieve a crispy, golden-brown exterior and a warm, gooey filling with the help of an air fryer. If you're unfamiliar with air fryers, check out this guide to get started.
Why Choose an Air Fryer for Calzones?
Using an air fryer for calzones comes with several benefits. Not only does it cook your food faster, but it also significantly reduces the amount of oil needed. For barbecue enthusiasts, this means you can enjoy your grilled and air-fried delights without the guilt. Furthermore, the convenience of an air fryer cannot be overstated. Imagine biting into a perfectly cooked calzone in less than 20 minutes without having to heat up your entire kitchen!
Preparing Your Calzone for the Air Fryer
Before we dive into the specifics of cooking times, let's talk about preparation. Much like grilling, preparation is crucial for achieving the best results.
Ingredients Needed
- Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- Your choice of fillings (pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, vegetables, etc.)
- Olive oil or cooking spray
- Optional: garlic powder, Italian seasoning for extra flavor
Steps to Prepare
- Start by rolling out your pizza dough on a floured surface. Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
- Spread your chosen fillings over half of the dough, leaving a slight edge around the perimeter to seal the calzone.
- Fold the dough over and press the edges firmly to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a more secure seal.
- Lightly brush the calzone with olive oil or spray with cooking spray. This helps to achieve a crispy crust.
Cooking Time and Temperature
Now, the moment youve been waiting for: how long to cook calzone in the air fryer. The cooking time can vary depending on the size and thickness of your calzone, but a general guideline is:
Standard Calzone
- Temperature: 375F (190C)
- Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mini Calzones
- Temperature: 375F (190C)
- Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
It's essential to preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before placing your calzone inside. This ensures even cooking and a crispy crust.
Additional Tips for Perfect Air Fried Calzones
Here are some additional tips to ensure your calzones turn out perfect every time:
- Do not overcrowd the basket. Cook the calzones in batches if necessary.
- Flip the calzones halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning on both sides.
- If your air fryer model requires it, use aluminum foil to prevent the calzone from sticking.
- Check the internal temperature with a food thermometer to ensure the filling is hot enough.
- Sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese on top before air frying for added flavor.
Comparing Air Fryer Calzones to Grilled Calzones
If you're a barbecue enthusiast, you may wonder how air fryer calzones stack up against their grilled counterparts. Traditionally, calzones are oven-baked, but grilling offers a smoky flavor that is hard to beat. The air fryer provides a happy medium, delivering a crispy exterior without the need for a lot of oil or an oven.
If you are still craving the smoky flavor, consider finishing your air-fried calzone on the grill for a few minutes. This can give you the best of both worlds the convenience of an air fryer and the flavor of the grill.
Serving Suggestions
Once your calzone is perfectly cooked, you'll want to serve it with some delectable sides that complement its flavors. Here are a few suggestions:
- Marinara Sauce: For dipping.
- Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad balances the richness of the calzone.
- Grilled Vegetables: Keep the barbecue theme alive with some charred veggies.
- Garlic Bread: Because who doesn't love more carbs?
For some additional inspiration, you can also check out our recipe for air-fried potatoes, which makes for a fantastic side dish.
Why Barbecue Enthusiasts Will Love Air Frying
You might wonder why we're discussing air fryers on a barbecue blog. The answer is simple: versatility. Barbecue enthusiasts are often passionate about cooking and are always on the lookout for new methods to expand their culinary repertoire. The air fryer offers a different avenue to explore, providing a fast, convenient, and healthy way to prepare a wide range of dishes.
Speaking of exploring, if you're interested in other air fryer recipes, you might want to check out our blog post on air-fried empanadas. It's a fun way to mix things up while staying true to your love for delicious food.
FAQs
How do I store leftover calzones?
Leftover calzones can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the air fryer again at 350F for 5-7 minutes.
Can I freeze uncooked calzones?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked calzones. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen in the air fryer with an additional 5-7 minutes of cooking time.
What other foods can I cook in an air fryer?
An air fryer is incredibly versatile. You can cook a variety of foods, including french fries, chicken wings, roasted vegetables, and even desserts. For more ideas, check out our recipe for breakfast sandwiches.
Conclusion
So, now you know how long to cook calzone in air fryer and why it's a fantastic method for barbecue enthusiasts. The convenience, health benefits, and unique flavors that an air fryer brings to the table make it a valuable addition to any culinary arsenal. Happy cooking!
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