The aroma of warm, cheesy goodness fills the air as I pull out my latest creation—crispy air fryer pizza rolls. With their golden-brown exterior and gooey mozzarella hiding inside, these little bites are a perfect snack for any occasion, whether it’s game day or a cozy movie night. What I love about these air fryer pizza rolls is how quick and easy they come together, making them an ideal choice for satisfying cravings without the guilt of traditional fried snacks. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile; you can switch up the fillings based on what you have on hand or even go vegetarian for a delightful twist. Ready to roll up your sleeves for this tasty treat? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Are Air Fryer Pizza Rolls a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: These crispy air fryer pizza rolls come together in no time, perfect for busy schedules or spontaneous snack cravings. Healthier Alternative: Enjoy the deliciousness of fried snacks with a fraction of the oil, making these a guilt-free choice at any gathering. Customizable Fillings: Use whatever ingredients you have on hand—swap pepperoni for veggies or try different cheese blends like cheddar or provolone. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Great for parties, game days, or cozy family nights, they’re sure to impress everyone! Perfect Dip Companion: Serve them with marinara sauce or experiment with ranch and spicy mayo for an exciting twist. Don’t forget to pair them with a refreshing salad for a complete meal!
Air Fryer Pizza Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
• Pizza Dough – Use store-bought or homemade; letting it rest ensures easy rolling.
For the Filling
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – The star ingredient, providing that gooey texture; swap for cheddar or provolone if you like.
• Pepperoni – Adds savory depth; consider cooked sausage or veggies for a vegetarian twist.
• Italian Seasoning – A pinch enhances the flavor without overwhelming; try to sprinkle just right!
• Salt – Balances the flavors; adjust according to your taste.
For Serving
• Marinara Sauce – A classic dipping choice; it boosts the overall flavor experience of your air fryer pizza rolls.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer Pizza Rolls
Step 1: Prep Dough
Begin by rolling out your pizza dough on a floured surface until it reaches about 1/4 inch in thickness. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into 3×3 inch squares, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking. Dusting your surface with flour will help prevent sticking as you work on creating your delicious air fryer pizza rolls.
Step 2: Fill Rolls
Take a square of dough and place a tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center, followed by a few slices of pepperoni. Sprinkle a dash of Italian seasoning and salt over the filling to enhance the flavor. This step is key to achieving that delicious, savory taste, so don’t be shy with the seasoning.
Step 3: Seal
To create the perfect air fryer pizza rolls, fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle, depending on your preference. Use a fork to crimp the edges firmly, sealing in that gooey goodness. This will help keep the filling secure during cooking, preventing any leaks while also giving a lovely decorative touch.
Step 4: Preheat Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to preheat at 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating is essential for achieving an even cook and ensuring your pizza rolls come out perfectly crispy. While the air fryer warms up, you can prepare your pizza rolls, making the most of your time in the kitchen.
Step 5: Cook
Once preheated, lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the pizza rolls in a single layer in the basket, making sure they have enough space for air circulation. Cook them at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even browning. They should emerge golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve
After cooking, allow your air fryer pizza rolls to cool slightly for a couple of minutes before serving. This step helps prevent burns from the hot filling. Serve warm with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauces for a delightful snack experience that everyone will love.
Make Ahead Options
These crispy air fryer pizza rolls are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade snacks with minimal fuss! You can prepare the rolls up to 24 hours in advance by assembling them completely, then covering and refrigerating them. For even longer storage, assemble the rolls and freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container where they can last for up to 3 months. To maintain their quality, ensure you wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the air frying time. You’ll have crispy, gooey pizza rolls that taste just as delicious as fresh!
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Pizza Rolls
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Preheat Your Air Fryer: Don’t skip this step! Preheating ensures even cooking and the ultimate crispiness for your pizza rolls.
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Prevent Overcrowding: Arrange the rolls in a single layer without overlapping. Cooking in batches helps maintain their delicious texture.
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Mind the Filling: Be careful not to overstuff your rolls! A tablespoon of filling is perfect to avoid spilling during cooking.
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Dipping Sauce Options: While marinara is classic, don’t hesitate to try ranch or spicy mayo to elevate your air fryer pizza rolls experience.
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Crispiness Check: If your rolls don’t look golden brown after the cooking time, give them a couple more minutes in the air fryer for that ideal crunch.
Air Fryer Pizza Rolls Variations & Substitutions
Get ready to unleash your creativity in the kitchen with these delightful twists on air fryer pizza rolls!
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap pepperoni for sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a fresh, veggie-packed treat.
Embrace the colorful veggies, and you’ll get a burst of flavor that’s both satisfying and nourishing! -
Cheese Blend: Experiment by mixing mozzarella with cheddar, gouda, or even feta for a unique flavor profile.
Each cheese adds a distinctive character, making each bite more exciting and rich. -
Herb Twist: Add fresh basil or oregano into your filling for an aromatic boost.
The fresh herbs will elevate the flavor, giving your pizza rolls a garden-fresh taste that’s irresistible. -
Pizza Sauce Swap: Try using pesto or a spicy marinara sauce as a filling instead of traditional marinara.
The aromatic flavors of pesto will dance with your taste buds, giving a gourmet feel to a simple snack. -
Dough Options: Use whole wheat or gluten-free dough to cater to dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
These options keep your rolls inviting while making them accessible for everyone at your table. -
Heat it Up: Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
If you crave a bit of heat, these additions will awaken your taste buds and take your rolls to the next level. -
Flavorful Add-Ins: Toss in chopped olives or roasted red peppers for an extra flavor dimension.
These additions can turn your pizza rolls into a flavor explosion that’s both adventurous and comforting.
Should you want to roll with a classic, check out my recipe for Honey Flatbread Pizza as a fantastic base for any of these variations. Let your imagination run wild and make these air fryer pizza rolls truly your own!
What to Serve with Air Fryer Pizza Rolls
Elevate your snack game and create a delightful meal experience with the perfect accompaniments for your crispy air fryer pizza rolls.
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Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy rolls.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of toasted garlic bread pairs beautifully with your pizza rolls and makes for a comforting spread.
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Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch serves as a cool, tangy dip. It complements the savory flavors of the pizza rolls perfectly, adding an extra layer of taste.
A refreshing drink can enhance your meal even more.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: A glass of chilled lemonade or iced tea balances the savory elements, providing a light and refreshing sip alongside your delicious snacks.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, warm chocolate chip cookies are the perfect sweet ending to your pizza roll feast. Their gooey sweetness beautifully contrasts the savory rolls.
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Spicy Mayo: A dollop of spicy mayo brings a delightful heat that pairs excellently with the comforting flavors of your pizza rolls, creating a perfect flavor synergy.
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Pizza Rolls
Fridge: Store your air fryer pizza rolls in an airtight container once they’ve cooled completely; they will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to one month.
Reheating: To enjoy them again, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until hot and crispy; microwaving is an option but may result in a softer texture.
Enjoyment Tip: If serving at a gathering, consider making extra to freeze ahead, so you can whip up a fresh batch of delicious air fryer pizza rolls anytime!
Air Fryer Pizza Rolls Recipe FAQs
What type of pizza dough should I use?
You can use either store-bought or homemade pizza dough for these air fryer pizza rolls. If you choose homemade, let it rest for about 30 minutes to make rolling easier. Look for dough that is fresh and pliable; this will ensure that your rolls come together perfectly.
How should I store leftover air fryer pizza rolls?
After cooling completely, place your pizza rolls in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their texture and flavor, making them a perfect snack for later.
Can I freeze air fryer pizza rolls, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze your pizza rolls, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until firm, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, cook them directly from frozen in your air fryer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
What should I do if my pizza rolls burst open during cooking?
If you find that your pizza rolls are bursting open, it may be due to overstuffing. Ensure you’re using about a tablespoon of filling per roll and crimp the edges securely to create a seal. If they still leak, try reducing the cooking time and keeping an eye on them for the last few minutes.
Are air fryer pizza rolls suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! You can easily make these pizza rolls vegetarian-friendly by substituting pepperoni with cooked vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. Feel free to create your own combinations to keep it exciting and delicious!
Crispy Air Fryer Pizza Rolls That Bring Comfort Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by rolling out your pizza dough on a floured surface until it reaches about 1/4 inch in thickness. Slice the dough into 3x3 inch squares.
- Take a square of dough and place a tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center, followed by a few slices of pepperoni. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and salt.
- Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle, and use a fork to crimp the edges firmly, sealing in the filling.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Once preheated, lightly spray the basket with olive oil, arrange the pizza rolls in a single layer, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Allow the pizza rolls to cool slightly before serving with marinara sauce.
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