Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Air fryer pizza rolls came into my kitchen the first time I needed a quick snack for my nephew’s sleepover. I didn’t want to serve store-bought frozen rolls so I thought why not try a homemade version using my trusty air fryer? I tossed together some pizza dough, cheese, and sauce and within minutes the whole house smelled like a pizzeria. The kids absolutely devoured them and I ended up making a second batch that same night.

Since then and I’ve found these rolls are just as much of a hit with adults as they are with kids. They’re crispy on the outside and cheesy and saucy on the inside everything you love about pizza but in a hand-held bite-sized form. Whether I’m hosting game night or just craving something indulgent and I always have a stash of these rolls ready to go. They’re fast and fun and perfect for dipping in marinara or ranch.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Pizza dough – The base that gets golden and crisp in the air fryer.
• Pizza sauce – Brings that rich tomato flavor we all love in classic pizza.
• Mozzarella cheese – Melts into a gooey, stretchy filling inside the roll.
• Mini pepperoni or cooked sausage – Adds a meaty bite and big flavor.
• Italian seasoning – Enhances the filling with a blend of dried herbs.
• Garlic powder (optional) – For a savory, garlicky finish.
• Egg (optional) – Beaten and brushed over the tops to help them brown and get glossy.
• Grated Parmesan or shredded cheese – Sprinkled on top for an extra cheesy crust.

Tools You’ll Need

• Air fryer – The star of this recipe for achieving crispy rolls in minutes.
• Rolling pin – Helps flatten the dough evenly before cutting and filling.
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter – Makes it easy to slice dough into rectangles.
• Pastry brush – For brushing on egg wash or olive oil before air frying.
• Mixing bowl – To combine the filling ingredients before assembly.
• Tongs or spatula – To remove the hot rolls from the air fryer safely.

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by rolling out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Then I cut it into evenly sized squares or rectangles using a knife or pizza cutter.

Step 2:

In a bowl and I mix together the pizza sauce and shredded mozzarella and any fillings like pepperoni or sausage and seasoning.

Step 3:

I spoon a small amount of the filling into the center of each dough square about a tablespoon is perfect.

Step 4:

I fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal well. If needed and I use a little water or egg wash to help it stick.

Step 5:

I lightly brush the tops with egg wash or olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan or more shredded cheese.

Step 6:

Then I place the rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket making sure not to overcrowd and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes until golden brown and puffed.

Step 7:

Once done and I let them cool slightly before serving. The filling is hot and gooey so I always warn guests to wait a minute before biting in!

Tips

I preheat the air fryer for a couple minutes so the rolls get crispy right away.

For freezer prep and I assemble the rolls and freeze them raw on a baking sheet. Once frozen and I transfer them to a bag and cook straight from frozen (just add a few extra minutes).

If you’re avoiding meat and try spinach or mushrooms as delicious veggie options.

I use store-bought dough when I’m short on time but homemade works beautifully too.

A little sprinkle of crushed red pepper inside the filling gives them a kick!

Ways to Serve

I serve them with warm marinara or ranch dressing for dipping.

These are perfect for parties and game days and after-school snacks.

I sometimes serve them with a green salad for an easy weeknight dinner.

They also make a great appetizer platter alongside garlic knots or mozzarella sticks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Air Fryer Pizza Rolls ahead of time?

Yes and I often prep them and freeze uncooked. When I need them and I pop them straight into the air fryer from frozen.

What fillings work best for homemade pizza rolls?

Mozzarella and pepperoni are my go-to combo but cooked sausage and mushrooms and bell peppers all work great too.

Can I use puff pastry or crescent dough instead of pizza dough?

Absolutely! Puff pastry makes them extra flaky and crescent dough gives them a buttery twist.

How do I keep pizza rolls from opening in the air fryer?

I press the edges tightly to seal and use a bit of water or egg wash to help. And I don’t overfill them.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give these air fryer pizza rolls a try! They’re one of my favorite things to whip up when I want something cheesy and satisfying without the fuss of a full pizza. Let me know how you customize yours whether you go classic or get creative!

Happy Cooking!

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