Ah, pizza rolls! Those delicious bundles of cheesy goodness and savory sauce always bring me back to my childhood. I can vividly recall sleepover nights with friends, huddled in front of the TV, watching movies and devouring plate after plate of these tasty snacks. Isn’t it funny how certain foods can evoke such warm memories? Now, as an adult, I’ve found the perfect way to bring those delightful moments back without the guilt: my Crispy Air Fryer Pizza Rolls!
Not only are these rolls super easy to whip up, but they also retain that crunch while being less greasy than traditional frying methods. The air fryer practically works like magic, making them crispier and allowing you to customize the filling however you like! Whether you want classic cheese and pepperoni or something a bit unconventional, I’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in and get cooking!
What’s in Crispy Air Fryer Pizza Rolls?
Pizza Dough: The star of our rolls! You can use store-bought dough for convenience or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s rolled out to a thin layer for that perfect crispy bite.
Cheese: I’m a big fan of shredded mozzarella; it melts beautifully and stretches just the way we want it. Feel free to mix in some cheddar for an extra zesty kick!
Pepperoni: A classic filling. I use mini pepperoni slices for a perfect bite size. You could swap this out for veggies or even cooked sausage if you prefer.
Pizza Sauce: Essential for that flavorful punch! A simple store-bought marinara works great, or if you’re up for it, make your own! Pro tip: I like to mix in a pinch of Italian seasoning for an extra pop of flavor.
Cooking Spray: This will help achieve that golden-brown crispiness in the air fryer.
Is Crispy Air Fryer Pizza Rolls Good for You?
Let’s be real here, these pizza rolls are a fun snack that can fit into a balanced diet depending on the ingredients you choose.
Pizza Dough: Using whole wheat pizza dough can boost the fiber content and make these rolls a bit healthier.
Cheese: While cheese adds flavor and calcium, it’s also high in saturated fat. Moderation is key; try using part-skim mozzarella to cut down on fat without sacrificing taste.
Pepperoni: It’s a tasty addition but can be quite salty and fatty. Opt for turkey pepperoni to make it a bit lighter if you’d like!
Using an air fryer means less oil is used compared to traditional frying methods, helping to reduce overall calorie intake. So yes, in moderation, these pizza rolls can be a delightful treat!
Ingredients List
– 1 package of pizza dough
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup mini pepperoni (or filling of your choice)
– 1/2 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Cooking spray
– A sprinkle of Italian seasoning (optional)
*Serves: 4 for a snack or appetizer*
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Pizza Rolls?
1. Begin by rolling out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8-inch thick. This makes for the perfect crispy bite!
2. Cut the dough into rectangles, about 3×4 inches. You can make them larger or smaller depending on your preference.
3. In the center of each rectangle, place a tablespoon of pizza sauce, a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese, and a few pieces of pepperoni.
4. Carefully fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal tightly. You don’t want any of that cheesy goodness escaping!
5. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
6. Lightly spray the pizza rolls with cooking spray and place them in the air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. You may have to do this in batches.
7. Air fry the rolls for about 8-10 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Make sure to check them halfway through and give them a little shake to ensure they cook evenly.
8. Once done, take them out, and let them cool for a minute before serving. Serve with an extra side of pizza sauce for dipping!
Tips, Tricks & Variations
The sky’s the limit here! You can switch up the fillings as you wish. Go for a veggie-loaded version with bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Or perhaps a gourmet twist with spinach and feta if you’re feeling fancy!
If you love a bit of spice, why not add some sliced jalapeños inside? I also love sprinkling parmesan on top of the rolls for an extra layer of flavor.
Want to make them dairy-free? Try using cashew cheese or your favorite non-dairy cheese option!
Lastly, if you have any leftovers (though good luck with that), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; just pop them back in the air fryer to re-crisp before enjoying again.
So there you have it! Crispy Air Fryer Pizza Rolls that are not only delicious but also a blast to make. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and relive those movie night memories. Please snap a photo of your masterpiece and share your experience with me! Happy cooking!
