Name: Air Fryer Pizza Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 38 min
Ingredients: 1 tube pizza dough (13.8 ounces, thinly rolled out and cut into 16 squares); ¾ cup pizza sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic (minced); ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ cup pepperoni (diced); 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded); cooking spray (for spraying)

Introduction to Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Finding quick and delicious meal options is essential for young professionals constantly on the go. Enter air fryer pizza rolls—the perfect solution for a snack or a quick meal that satisfies your cravings. These delightful, mini pizza pockets are stuffed with seasoned pizza sauce, diced pepperoni, and gooey mozzarella cheese, making them an irresistible treat for busy weekdays or laid-back weekends alike.

Why Air Fryer Pizza Rolls are Perfect for Young Professionals

Whether you're coming home after a long day or hosting friends for a casual movie night, air fryer pizza rolls can be a lifesaver. These bite-sized delights take only about 30 minutes to prep and cook, giving you more time to unwind and enjoy your evening. Plus, cooking them in an air fryer means they come out crispy without all the extra oil, making them a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried snacks.

The beauty of air fryer pizza rolls lies in their versatility. You can easily customize the fillings to suit your taste—add your favorite veggies or switch out the pepperoni for turkey bacon or chicken ham! And for those looking for a quick weekend meal, they can be paired with a fresh salad or dipping sauces like ranch or extra pizza sauce for that extra touch.

For a detailed recipe, check out the full instructions below. Your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating air fryer pizza rolls starts with some essential ingredients that deliver flavor and satisfaction. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 tube (13.8 ounces) pizza dough: Look for fresh or store-bought options that roll out easily.
¾ cup pizza sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade sauce to add that authentic pizza flavor.
1 teaspoon garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a delightful aroma and a kick of flavor.
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: This mix of herbs will elevate your rolls with classic Italian notes.
½ cup pepperoni, diced: Opt for turkey pepperoni for a healthier twist or chicken ham for a unique spin.
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: The gooier, the better! Mozzarella melts perfectly for a stretchy, irresistible filling.
Cooking spray: To ensure those rolls come out crisp and golden.

Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor

Looking to customize your air fryer pizza rolls? Consider these fun add-ins:

Veggies: Sautéed bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms can give a nutritious boost.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a little heat.
Cheese Varieties: Mix in some provolone or cheddar for a flavor-rich experience.

Feel free to experiment! Check out popular recipes like this one with more unique fillings to inspire your creativity!

Preparing Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Making Air Fryer Pizza Rolls is a fun and delicious way to bring a bite-sized taste of pizza to your kitchen. Whether you're prepping for a movie night or a casual gather with friends, these pizza rolls are sure to impress. Let’s walk through the preparation steps together!

Preheat and Prepare Your Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (about 200°C). This may seem like a small step, but preheating ensures your pizza rolls cook evenly and achieve that golden-brown crispy exterior we love. While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy handling later.

Mix the Pizza Sauce

Next, it's time to make your pizza sauce even more special. In a small bowl, combine about ¾ cup of your favorite pizza sauce with a teaspoon of minced garlic and a half-teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Mix it well to let the flavors meld together—this simple step elevates the entire dish! For extra tips on sauce variations, check out The Kitchn’s guide to homemade sauces.

Roll Out and Cut the Pizza Dough

Now, let’s get to the dough. Lightly dust your work surface with flour to prevent sticking. Take your pizza dough and roll it out into a 12x12-inch square. If you’re using pre-packaged dough, it should roll out easily. Once it’s flattened, cut it into 16 smaller squares. Each of these will become a delicious pizza roll!

Assemble the Pizza Rolls

This is where the magic happens! On each dough square, place about 1 teaspoon of the seasoned pizza sauce, followed by 1 teaspoon of diced pepperoni and 1 teaspoon of shredded mozzarella cheese. You can also get creative and add other ingredients you love, like turkey bacon or chicken ham for an extra kick.

Seal and Spray the Rolls

To seal those tasty fillings inside, wet the edges of the dough with a little bit of water using a finger or brush. Fold one corner of the square towards the center, followed by the left and right corners, making it resemble an open envelope. Finally, fold down the top corner and pinch the edges firmly, or use a fork for a crimped effect. Once sealed, give each roll a light spray of cooking spray to help them crisp up in the air fryer.

Air Fry to Perfection

Now comes the best part! Place the sealed pizza rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on your air fryer size, you might need to do this in batches. Air fry your rolls for about 8 minutes or until they are a delightful dark golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist! Serve them hot with ranch dressing or extra pizza sauce for dipping.

Enjoying homemade air fryer pizza rolls has never been simpler or more delicious!

Variations on Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Vegetarian Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Looking for a meatless option? These air fryer pizza rolls can easily be transformed into a delightful vegetarian treat. Simply substitute diced pepperoni with your favorite veggies, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. You can even add some flavorful herbs like basil or oregano for an extra kick. Just load them up with mozzarella cheese, and you’ll have a cheesy, satisfying snack that even non-veggies will love.

Breakfast Air Fryer Pizza Rolls with Eggs

Why not kickstart your morning with breakfast-inspired air fryer pizza rolls? Scramble some eggs and mix them with turkey bacon or diced chicken ham, along with a sprinkle of cheese. Fill the dough squares with this tasty combination and air fry as usual. You’ll have a warm, satisfying breakfast ready in no time—perfect for busy mornings or brunch gatherings.

For more delicious pizza-inspired ideas, check out The Spruce Eats for variations that can fit any time of day!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Ensuring Even Cooking

To achieve perfectly cooked air fryer pizza rolls, it’s essential to arrange them in a single layer within the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking, so consider making multiple batches if necessary. Additionally, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time can promote even browning.

Preventing Sticking

Avoid the frustration of pizza rolls sticking to the basket by using cooking spray. A light mist over the basket helps create a non-stick surface. Alternatively, you can line the basket with parchment paper or silicone mats designed for air fryers. Just make sure to trim the paper to fit snugly, preventing it from interfering with air circulation.

For more tips on air frying, check out resources like AirFryerWorld for helpful insights!

Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Dipping Sauces that Enhance Your Experience

When it comes to enjoying your air fryer pizza rolls, dipping sauces can elevate the taste to a whole new level. Classic choices like marinara sauce provide a zesty contrast, while ranch dressing adds a creamy element. For those who enjoy a little heat, try a spicy sriracha mayo or a tangy buffalo sauce. Just imagine biting into a perfectly crisp roll and pairing it with your favorite dip—pure bliss! If you're feeling adventurous, consider a garlic aioli or pesto for a gourmet twist.

Pairing with Sides for a Complete Meal

To turn your snack into a full-fledged meal, consider pairing your air fryer pizza rolls with fresh sides. A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the rolls. Alternatively, serve them alongside crispy sweet potato fries or air-fried zucchini for a delightful crunch. If you're entertaining, a platter of fresh veggies with hummus could add a healthy touch. These combos not only enhance the meal but also make it feel like a true feast!

Time Breakdown for Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Preparation Time

Preparing your air fryer pizza rolls takes about 30 minutes. This includes rolling out the pizza dough, cutting it into squares, and filling each one with your favorite ingredients. Pro tip: having everything prepped and ready on your workspace can speed up the process.

Cooking Time

Once you're all set, simply pop those filled pizza rolls into your air fryer for 8 minutes. You’ll be amazed at how quickly they cook up to golden perfection. Remember to check on them halfway through for even crispiness!

Total Time

In total, you’re looking at about 38 minutes from start to finish to enjoy your delicious, homemade air fryer pizza rolls. It’s a perfect snack for movie nights or surprise guests! For more tips on maximizing your air fryer usage, check out Air Fryer World for some fantastic resources.

Nutritional Facts for Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

When it comes to snacking, knowing the nutritional content of your favorite bites can help you enjoy them guilt-free. Here’s a quick rundown on the nutritional facts for these delicious air fryer pizza rolls:

Calories

Each pizza roll contains approximately 90 calories, making them a satisfyingly indulgent snack without overdoing it.

Protein

You can expect about 4 grams of protein per roll, thanks to the mozzarella cheese and pepperoni, which offer a nice boost to your snack.

Carbohydrates

With around 12 grams of carbohydrates in each roll, these tasty treats are definitely a fun way to enjoy a day off from strict diets while still packing in some flavor.

If you're interested in diving deeper into healthy snacking, consider checking out Healthline for a more comprehensive insight into balanced eating!

FAQs about Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Can I use store-bought dough for Air Fryer Pizza Rolls?

Absolutely! Using store-bought pizza dough is a fantastic way to save time and simplify the process. Brands like Pillsbury or any local bakery often offer great options. Just roll it out, cut it into squares, and fill it with your favorite ingredients, such as pepperoni and cheese.

How do I store leftover pizza rolls?

To keep your leftover air fryer pizza rolls fresh, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes until they're crispy again.

What other fillings can I use for versatility?

Get creative with your fillings! Beyond the classic pepperoni and cheese, try:

Turkey Bacon and Spicy Jalapeños
Chicken Ham and Pineapple
Mushrooms, Spinach, and Feta
Beef with a splash of BBQ sauce

Experimenting with different ingredients not only keeps things exciting but also allows you to tailor the air fryer pizza rolls to your taste preferences. For more inspiration, check out this article on creative pizza fillings. With just a little creativity, you’ll have personalized snacks that can impress anyone!

Conclusion on Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Air fryer pizza rolls are not just a tasty treat; they're a quick, crowd-pleasing option for any gathering. With their crispy texture and gooey filling, you'll impress friends and family alike. Try this recipe for your next movie night or game day—everyone will be asking for seconds! For more tasty air fryer recipes, check out this collection and elevate your snacking game.