If you’re craving a snack that combines crispy, golden edges with gooey, melty cheese and savory flavors, look no further than these Air Fryer Pizza Rolls. They come together quickly, are incredibly easy to make, and deliver that perfect bite every time. Whether you’re entertaining guests, feeding hungry kids, or simply need a fast snack, these pizza rolls are sure to become your new go-to treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Speedy Snack: Ready in under 20 minutes, these Air Fryer Pizza Rolls satisfy cravings fast without any hassle.
- Crispy Perfection: The air fryer ensures each roll is evenly crisped, offering that perfect crunchy texture.
- Customizable Filling: You can easily swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs, making it ideal for everyone.
- Minimal Cleanup: No greasy pans or complicated steps mean less mess and more time enjoying your snack.
- Party Favorite: These bite-sized treats are crowd-pleasers at any gathering, perfect for dipping and sharing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind these Air Fryer Pizza Rolls is in the simplicity of fresh, flavorful ingredients that bring together a perfect balance of texture and taste. From melty cheese to savory sauce, each component plays a crucial role in creating those irresistible little pockets of goodness.
- Pizza Dough: Use store-bought or homemade dough for a soft but sturdy wrap that crisps beautifully in the air fryer.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella melts to give that quintessential cheesy pull inside every roll.
- Pepperoni or Meat Toppings: Adds a savory, slightly spicy kick—but feel free to use veggies or skip for a vegetarian twist.
- Marinara Sauce: A rich and tangy tomato base that infuses the rolls with authentic pizza flavor.
- Olive Oil: A light brush helps achieve that golden brown, crispy exterior without weighing down the rolls.
- Italian Seasoning: Elevates the flavor profile with herbs like oregano and basil, keeping it classic and aromatic.
Variations for Air Fryer Pizza Rolls
One of the best things about Air Fryer Pizza Rolls is how easy they are to customize. Whether you want to spice things up, keep it vegetarian, or experiment with global flavors, you can tailor this recipe to your exact cravings.
- Veggie Delight: Swap pepperoni for chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach for a fresh, garden-inspired roll.
- Spicy Jalapeño: Add thin slices of jalapeño and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a fiery kick.
- BBQ Chicken: Use cooked chicken mixed with BBQ sauce in place of marinara and pepperoni for a southern twist.
- Vegan Version: Try plant-based cheese and skip the meat for a cruelty-free, delicious snack.
- Extra Cheesy: Double the mozzarella or add parmesan for a seriously cheesy experience every bite.
How to Make Air Fryer Pizza Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface into a thin rectangle, about ¼ inch thick. This gives you enough surface to create compact, neatly rolled pizza pockets.
Step 2: Add the Filling
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously, then add your choice of pepperoni or veggies along with a pinch of Italian seasoning.
Step 3: Roll and Seal
Starting on the long edge closest to you, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Press the edges to seal, and then slice the roll into 1 to 1.5-inch thick pieces. Make sure the ends are securely tucked in to keep fillings inside during cooking.
Step 4: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
Brush each pizza roll lightly with olive oil to promote browning. Place them in the air fryer basket spaced apart for even cooking. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through until golden and bubbly.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Remove the pizza rolls carefully and allow them to cool for a couple of minutes before serving—trust me, the molten cheese is worth waiting for!
Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Pizza Rolls
- Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can cause the rolls to burst open, so keep portions moderate for best results.
- Use Parchment Paper: Line the air fryer basket if your model tends to stick, ensuring no precious rolls get torn.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Gives a better crisp and prevents soggy dough by starting with hot air circulation.
- Check for Browning: Keep a close eye near the end of cooking to avoid burning since air fryers vary in heat intensity.
- Experiment with Sauces: Try pesto, Alfredo, or hot sauce as an alternative if you want a fresh twist on flavor.
How to Serve Air Fryer Pizza Rolls
Garnishes
Sprinkle fresh chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and herbal freshness, or add a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of savory goodness.
Side Dishes
Pair your Air Fryer Pizza Rolls with a crisp garden salad, a bowl of marinara dipping sauce, or even some crunchy garlic breadsticks to create a fuller snack or meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the rolls on a wooden charcuterie board with small ramekins of different dipping sauces like ranch, spicy mustard, or blue cheese for a stylish and interactive snack time setup.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Air Fryer Pizza Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They stay tasty and reheat wonderfully.
Freezing
To freeze, place uncooked pizza roll slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment and flash freeze for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This keeps them from sticking together until ready to cook.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated Air Fryer Pizza Rolls in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes until warm and crispy, or use an oven set at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use frozen pizza dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just thaw it completely in the fridge before rolling out so it is pliable and easy to work with.
What if I don’t have an air fryer—can I bake these in the oven?
Yes, bake them at 400°F (200°C) on a lined baking sheet for 12-15 minutes until golden and bubbly, flipping halfway through for even crispness.
Can I make these pizza rolls gluten-free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free pizza dough available at most grocery stores, and adjust cook time slightly as needed since gluten-free dough can behave differently.
Are these pizza rolls kid-friendly?
They are perfect for kids! The size and gooey cheese make them an easy-to-eat, hand-held snack that kids love.
How do I avoid soggy pizza rolls?
Ensure you use a light hand with sauce so that dough does not get too wet, and always preheat your air fryer for the crispiest results.
Final Thoughts
These Air Fryer Pizza Rolls are a game-changer for anyone who loves quick, delicious snacks packed with classic pizza flavors. Their crispy exterior and cheesy interior make them impossible to resist. Whether for a cozy night in or a fun party treat, give this recipe a try—you might find it becoming your new favorite snack hack!