Crunchy Perfection: Mastering the Art of Cooking Pizza Rolls in an Air Fryer

How to cook pizza rolls in an air fryer

Pizza rolls are a popular and convenient snack that many people love. They offer a delicious combination of crispy dough, spicy tomato sauce, and tasty fillings. If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to make pizza rolls, using an air fryer is a great option. In this article, we will walk you through the process of cooking pizza dough in an air fryer, highlighting the benefits of this cooking method and providing step-by-step instructions.

What are pizza rolls?

Pizza rolls are bite-sized snacks that capture the flavor of pizza in a convenient and portable form. They consist of a breaded dough pocket filled with tomato pizza sauce and various toppings. Pizza rolls are known for their light and crispy texture with a savory and cheesy filling. While the name “pizza rolls” is trademarked by General Mills, there are other similar products available under different names, such as pizza snack rolls, pizza bites, pizza snacks, and pizza poppers.

What is an air fryer?

An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that has become increasingly popular in recent years. It uses the circulation of hot air to cook food, producing a crispy exterior similar to deep-frying, but with significantly less oil. Air fryers work by circulating hot air at high speed, creating a convection effect that cooks food quickly and evenly. They are compact, countertop appliances that offer a convenient and healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.

The benefits of cooking pizza rolls in an air fryer

When it comes to cooking pizza rolls, there are several advantages to using an air fryer. Here are some of the benefits of cooking pizza rolls in an air fryer:

1. Speed: Air fryers heat up quickly and cook food faster than conventional ovens. This means you can enjoy crispy and delicious pizza rolls in a fraction of the time it would take in a traditional oven.
2. Crispiness: Air fryers excel at creating a crispy texture on the outside of food. Cooking pizza rolls in an air fryer results in a perfectly crispy crust while maintaining a tender and flavorful filling.
3. Healthy: Air fryers use significantly less oil than frying. This means you can enjoy the taste and texture of fried foods with fewer calories and less fat. Cooking pizza rolls in an air fryer provides a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.

How to cook pizza rolls in an air fryer

Now that we’ve explored the benefits of using an air fryer, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of cooking pizza rolls in an air fryer:

1. Preparation: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (199°C) to ensure it reaches the optimal cooking temperature.
2. To arrange: Place the pizza rolls in a single layer in the fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking.
3. Cooking Time: Cook the pizza rolls at 390°F for 4 minutes. This initial cooking time begins the process of crisping the dough and heating the filling.
4. Shake: Remove the basket from the fryer and shake gently to ensure even cooking. This step helps prevent any part of the pizza from sticking to the basket and promotes even crisping.
5. Second cooking phase: Return the basket to the fryer and cook for an additional 4 minutes at 390°F. This ensures that the pizza rolls are thoroughly cooked and evenly crisped.
6. Let rest: At the end of the cooking time, remove the pizza rolls from the fryer and let them rest for 2 minutes. This allows the filling to cool slightly, making them easier to handle and enjoy.
7. Serve: After resting, your pizza rolls are ready to serve. Enjoy as a tasty snack or pair with your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.

Cooking Frozen Pizza Rolls in an Air Fryer

If you have frozen pizza rolls, you can still easily cook them in an air fryer. Follow these steps to cook frozen pizza rolls in an air fryer:

1. Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (199°C) as instructed in the previous section.
2. Placement: Place the frozen pizza rolls in a single layer in the fryer basket. It’s important not to overcrowd the basket to ensure proper airflow and even cooking.
3. Cooking Time: Cook frozen pizza rolls at 390°F for 8 minutes. This extended cooking time allows for the frozen state of the pizza rolls to thaw and cook thoroughly.
4. Shake: Similar to cooking fresh pizza dough, remove the basket from the fryer and shake gently to promote even cooking and prevent sticking.
5. Second Cooking Phase: Return the basket to the fryer and continue cooking the pizza rolls at 390°F for an additional 4 minutes. This will ensure that the pizza rolls are heated through and achieve a crispy texture.
6. Rest and serve: After the cooking process is complete, allow the pizza rolls to rest for 2 minutes before serving. This allows them to cool slightly and makes them easier to handle. Serve the cooked frozen pizza rolls as a delicious and convenient snack.

Tips for cooking pizza rolls in an air fryer

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when cooking pizza rolls in an air fryer:

1. Avoid overcrowding: Make sure the pizza rolls are arranged in a single layer in the fryer basket. Overcrowding can cause uneven cooking and prevent the pizza rolls from crisping properly.
2. Shake for even cooking: Shake the basket during cooking to promote even cooking and prevent sticking. This step helps achieve an even crisp texture.
3. Adjusting Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on the brand and size of pizza dough. It’s always a good idea to start with the recommended cooking time and adjust as needed to achieve your desired level of crispiness.
4. Experiment with seasonings: While pizza dough is flavorful on its own, you can experiment with adding spices or herbs to enhance the flavor. Sprinkle some garlic powder, dried oregano, or grated Parmesan cheese on top of the pizza rolls before cooking for added flavor.
5. Pair with dipping sauces: Pizza rolls are delicious on their own, but dipping sauces can take them to the next level. Consider serving them with marinara sauce, ranch dressing or garlic aioli for a tasty dipping experience.

Bottom Line

Cooking pizza rolls in an air fryer is a quick and convenient way to enjoy this popular snack. The air fryer provides a crispy texture without excessive oil, resulting in a healthier alternative to frying. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can achieve perfectly cooked pizza rolls with a deliciously crispy crust and flavorful filling. Experiment with different toppings and dipping sauces to customize your pizza roll experience. Enjoy these bite-sized treats as a snack, appetizer, or even a quick meal.

FAQS

Can I cook frozen pizza dough in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen pizza rolls in an air fryer. Just adjust the cooking time to reflect the frozen state of the pizza rolls. Follow the instructions in the article Cooking Frozen Pizza Rolls in an Air Fryer.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer before cooking pizza rolls?

Yes, it is recommended that you preheat the air fryer before cooking pizza rolls. Preheating ensures that the air fryer reaches the optimal cooking temperature, resulting in crispy and evenly cooked pizza rolls.

Can I use homemade pizza dough in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Homemade pizza rolls can be cooked in an air fryer. Follow the same cooking instructions as in the article for best results. Just make sure the homemade pizza rolls are properly sealed to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.

What dipping sauces go well with pizza rolls?

Pizza rolls pair well with a variety of dipping sauces. Some popular options include marinara sauce, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a spicy Sriracha mayo. Feel free to experiment with different sauces to find your favorite combination.

Can I reheat leftover pizza dough in an air fryer?

Yes, you can reheat leftover pizza dough in an air fryer. Preheat the fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the leftover pizza rolls in the basket. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until heated through. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

How do I keep pizza rolls from sticking to the fryer basket?

To prevent pizza rolls from sticking to the fryer basket, be sure to shake the basket gently during cooking. This will help ensure even cooking and prevent the pizza from sticking to the basket. You can also lightly spray the basket with cooking spray or line the basket with parchment paper for additional nonstick protection.