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These crispy pizza rolls made in the air fryer are a fantastic snack for busy days or casual get-togethers. They come together quickly with minimal fuss while delivering that melty cheesy goodness everyone loves.
I whipped these up on a weeknight when I needed something quick and tasty and they quickly became a favorite in my house.
Ingredients
- Pizza dough either store-bought for convenience or homemade if you want that fresh, soft texture:
- Mozzarella cheese provides the gooey, melty center: choose fresh shredded for best melt
- Pepperoni slices add that classic pizza flavor and a nice spice kick: opt for a good quality brand
- Italian seasoning brings in a fragrant herb mix that brightens the filling:
- A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors: fresh sea salt or kosher salt works well
- Olive oil for spraying helps the rolls crisp up beautifully in the air fryer:
- Marinara sauce is perfect for dipping and adds a tangy finish: use your favorite jar or homemade sauce
Instructions
- Gather Ingredients:
- Make sure you have everything ready and within reach. This helps keep the rolling and filling smooth without rushing.
- Prepare Dough:
- If using store-bought dough, let it rest at room temperature for about 20 minutes. This makes it easier to roll and prevents tearing. If homemade, roll it out into a thin rectangle roughly a quarter inch thick.
- Cut Dough Squares:
- Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into three inch by three inch squares. Even sizes help the rolls cook consistently.
- Fill Squares:
- Place a spoonful of shredded mozzarella and a few pepperoni slices right in the center of each square. Sprinkle on some Italian seasoning and a pinch of salt for seasoning.
- Seal Rolls:
- Fold each square over the filling to create a pocket. Pinch the edges firmly together and crimp them with a fork to seal as much as possible. This keeps the cheese from leaking out when cooking.
- Preheat Air Fryer:
- Set your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and preheat for five minutes. This ensures an even cooking temperature.
- Arrange and Spray:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the pizza rolls in a single layer with space around them so the hot air can circulate.
- Cook Rolls:
- Air fry for eight to ten minutes. Halfway through cooking, gently shake or turn the rolls to brown all sides evenly. The cheese inside should be melted and the outside crispy golden brown.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes before serving with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. This prevents burnt mouths and lets the filling set a bit.
Mozzarella is my favorite ingredient here because it melts so beautifully and ties everything together. I remember making these with my kids on a rainy afternoon and how their faces lit up biting into the crispy pockets.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness rather than the microwave which can make them soggy. You can also freeze the uncooked rolls on a baking sheet then transfer to a freezer bag for up to two months. Cook from frozen adding a few extra minutes in the air fryer.
Ingredient Swaps
Try swapping pepperoni for cooked sausage or roasted vegetables for a veggie-friendly version. Use cheddar or a cheese blend if you want a sharper flavor. Basil or oregano can be used instead of Italian seasoning depending on what you have on hand.
Serving Ideas
Serve with a side salad or roasted veggies for a more complete meal. These make a fun party appetizer alongside a variety of dips like garlic aioli, ranch, or spicy sriracha mayo. For kids, cutting them into smaller bite sizes works great for lunchboxes.
Using fresh shredded mozzarella melts more evenly for that perfect texture.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What dough works best for these pizza rolls?
Both store-bought and homemade pizza dough work well. Allow dough to rest at room temperature for easier rolling and folding.
- → How do I prevent the rolls from sticking to the air fryer basket?
Lightly spray the basket with olive oil before placing the rolls in a single layer to avoid sticking and ensure even crisping.
- → Can I add different fillings?
Absolutely! Try different cheeses, vegetables, or meats to customize the rolls to your taste.
- → How long should the rolls rest before cooking if using homemade dough?
Let the dough sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes, which relaxes the gluten and makes rolling easier.
- → What’s the best way to check if the rolls are cooked evenly?
Shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking to promote even browning on all sides.