Elevate your snack game with Air Fryer pizza rolls, a crispy and delightful treat that hits all the right notes for food lovers. In just under 20 minutes, you will master a recipe that combines the best of crunchy textures with gooey cheese and savory fillings, making it a must-have for your culinary repertoire or any gathering. Whether you’re satisfying a craving or impressing guests, air fryer pizza rolls are the answer to your snack-time prayers.
I remember the first time my family tried this recipe; it was during a cozy weekend movie night. The moment the delicious aroma wafted through the kitchen, I knew we were in for a treat. These pizza rolls became an instant favorite, even the kids couldn’t get enough! They still ask for this dish whenever we plan our family movie marathons. This simple joy turned into a beloved tradition, bringing us together over good food and warm memories.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Air Fryer pizza rolls are not just quick and easy to make, but they also offer a beautiful fusion of flavors that everyone will adore. Here are some reasons why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
- Quick Cooking: Ready in under 20 minutes, these rolls are perfect for last-minute snacks when unexpected guests arrive or when the kids crave something tasty.
- Healthier Option: Compared to traditional deep-frying, using an air fryer drastically reduces the amount of oil, making it a healthier alternative without compromising on texture or flavor.
- Customizable: Tailor the fillings to suit your preferences or dietary needs—vegan, vegetarian, or full-on meat delight, the choice is yours!
- Kid-Friendly: Children love these bite-sized snacks, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without a fuss.
Ingredients Notes
Let’s go over the essentials you’ll need to make these mouthwatering pizza rolls come to life. Each ingredient contributes to the overall taste and texture, so choose the best quality you can find.
- Pizza Dough: Opt for homemade dough for a more authentic taste, but in a hurry, store-bought dough works just as well.
- Cheese: Mozzarella is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or cheddar for a flavor twist.
- Pepperoni: Adds a savory, rich flavor. Substitute with turkey pepperoni for a leaner option.
- Marinara Sauce: Use a thick marinara sauce to prevent the rolls from becoming soggy. A robust sauce enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Italian Seasoning: This spice mix includes oregano, thyme, and basil, enhancing the traditional pizza flavor.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Prepare the Dough: Roll out your Pizza Dough on a floured surface until it’s about ¼ inch thick. This step ensures even cooking and a perfect crunch.
Step 2
Layer the Toppings: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over the dough, then sprinkle cheese and arrange pepperoni slices evenly. Don’t overstuff, as this can lead to a mess during the cooking process.
Step 3
Roll and Cut: Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, starting from one end. Use a sharp knife to slice the roll into 1-inch pieces. Keeping them uniform ensures they cook evenly.
Step 4
Preheat & Arrange: Preheat your Air Fryer to 380°F. Meanwhile, arrange the rolls in the fryer basket, leaving space between each one to allow air to circulate.
Step 5
Air Fry: Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Allow them to cool slightly before serving, as the filling will be extremely hot.
Storage Options
Proper storage will ensure your leftover pizza rolls stay fresh and delicious. Allow them to cool before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days.
For longer storage, freeze the rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat them directly from frozen in the Air Fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes or until heated through.
Variations & Substitutions
One of the best parts of this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ideas to inspire your creativity:
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the pepperoni and add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions for a veggie-packed version.
- Cheesy Delight: Load up on different cheese varieties like feta or blue cheese to give the rolls a distinct taste.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pizza dough available in most supermarkets for those with dietary restrictions.
Serving Suggestions
These pizza rolls are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a casual dinner with a crisp salad on the side. They are great for game days, parties, or when hosting a children’s party. Serve with additional marinara or ranch dipping sauce for an extra touch of flavor that your guests will love.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of cheese? Absolutely! While mozzarella is the go-to choice for its melting properties, experimenting with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack can add unique flavors to your rolls. Simply adjust the quantity based on how much cheese you enjoy.
How do I prevent the rolls from sticking to the Air Fryer basket? To ensure the rolls do not stick, lightly spray the basket with a non-stick cooking spray or use a parchment liner specifically designed for air fryers. This step will help maintain the integrity of the pizza rolls during cooking and make for easy cleanup.
Why did my pizza rolls turn out soggy? Sogginess can result from overloading the dough or using too much sauce. Ensure you’re using a thicker marinara sauce and not overstuffing with heavy ingredients. Proper dough thickness and cooking at the recommended temperature also prevent sogginess.
Can these rolls be made in advance? Certainly! Prepare the rolls and refrigerate them uncooked for up to 24 hours. This method is perfect for planning ahead. Simply cook them in the Air Fryer when you’re ready to enjoy them.
What’s the best way to re-crisp leftovers? To regain that fresh-from-the-air-fryer crispiness, reheat cooled rolls in the Air Fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the rolls chewy and less crispy.
Air Fryer Pizza Rolls
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 can pizza dough store-bought refrigerated dough
- 0.5 cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese or cheese blend
- 0.5 cup pepperoni slices optional
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface.
- Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese and add pepperoni slices if using.
- Roll up the dough tightly into a log and cut into 1-inch slices.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
- Arrange pizza rolls in the air fryer basket and cook for 7-10 minutes until golden brown.
