How to Make Pizza Rolls in an Air Fryer

Pizza rolls are a delicious, bite-sized snack filled with cheesy goodness, sauce, and your favorite pizza toppings. Cooking them in an air fryer is one of the quickest and most convenient methods to get perfectly crispy pizza rolls with a gooey, flavorful filling. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or quick meal, air frying is the best way to achieve the perfect texture.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make pizza rolls in an air fryer, the benefits of air frying, and how to enhance your pizza roll experience.

Why Use an Air Fryer for Pizza Rolls?

Air frying pizza rolls is a game-changer for several reasons:

Quick cooking time: The air fryer cooks pizza rolls faster than an oven or microwave, typically in under 10 minutes.
Crispy texture: The circulating hot air ensures that the outside of the pizza rolls is crispy, while the inside stays soft and melty.
Healthier alternative: Air frying uses significantly less oil than deep frying, making it a healthier option while still delivering that crunchy texture.

For those who enjoy easy and quick meals, the air fryer has become a kitchen essential, much like using shortcuts in recipes like this Philadelphia Cheesecake Recipe, where the method is simple yet results in rich, satisfying flavors.

Ingredients for Pizza Rolls

While store-bought pizza rolls are convenient, you can also make homemade pizza rolls for a fresh and customizable version. Here’s what you’ll need:

Store-Bought Pizza Rolls:

Frozen pizza rolls (any brand)

Homemade Pizza Rolls:

1 package of egg roll wrappers or wonton wrappers
1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup of your favorite pizza toppings (pepperoni, sausage, veggies)
Cooking spray or olive oil spray

How to Cook Pizza Rolls in an Air Fryer

Cooking pizza rolls in an air fryer is incredibly easy. Whether you’re cooking frozen or homemade rolls, the process is similar, with only slight differences in cooking time.

For Store-Bought Pizza Rolls:

Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Place the pizza rolls in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding so they cook evenly.
Air fry the pizza rolls for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Cool and serve: Let the pizza rolls cool for a minute or two before serving as the filling will be very hot.

For Homemade Pizza Rolls:

Assemble the pizza rolls: Place a spoonful of marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella, and your desired toppings in the center of each egg roll or wonton wrapper. Fold the wrapper tightly around the filling, sealing the edges with a bit of water.
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Spray the rolls with cooking spray: Lightly spray each roll with cooking spray or olive oil to achieve a crispy texture.
Air fry the rolls: Place the pizza rolls in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Serve: Allow the pizza rolls to cool slightly before serving with extra marinara or ranch for dipping.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Here are some tips to get the best results when making pizza rolls in an air fryer:

Avoid overcrowding: Make sure the pizza rolls are in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy on all sides.
Shake the basket halfway through: For frozen pizza rolls, shaking the basket midway through the cooking process will help them cook evenly.
Watch the cooking time: Air fryers can vary in their heat distribution, so check the pizza rolls a minute or two before the recommended cooking time to prevent burning.

If you’re enjoying the convenience of air frying, you might also want to explore other easy air fryer recipes, like Jalapeño Popper Mummies, which offer a fun and flavorful twist perfect for parties and snacking.

Dipping Sauces for Pizza Rolls

While pizza rolls are delicious on their own, pairing them with dipping sauces can elevate the experience. Here are some popular dips you can serve with your pizza rolls:

Marinara Sauce: A classic pizza dip that enhances the tomato flavor.
Ranch Dressing: Creamy and cool, ranch pairs well with the cheesy filling.
Garlic Butter: Melted butter mixed with garlic and herbs adds a rich, savory flavor.
Cheese Sauce: For cheese lovers, a hot cheese sauce makes for an indulgent dip.

Storing and Reheating Pizza Rolls

If you have leftover pizza rolls, store them properly to maintain their crispiness.

Storing:

Refrigeration: Store leftover pizza rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Homemade pizza rolls can be frozen before air frying. Place the assembled rolls on a baking sheet in the freezer for a couple of hours, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook them directly from frozen in the air fryer when ready to eat.

Reheating:

To reheat pizza rolls, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until they are hot and crispy again.

Perfect Pairings for Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

To make your pizza rolls the star of any meal or gathering, pair them with complementary dishes and beverages for a satisfying experience. Here are some ideas:

1. Sides

Garlic Bread: A classic side that pairs well with the marinara flavors of pizza rolls. Try toasting slices of baguette with garlic butter for a crispy, aromatic addition.
Salad: A simple Caesar or garden salad adds a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the pizza rolls.
Fries or Tater Tots: Cook these in the air fryer alongside your pizza rolls for a quick and crowd-pleasing combination.

2. Drinks

Soda or Sparkling Water: Classic options for casual snacks that add fizz and balance to the cheesy richness.
Craft Beer: For adults, a hoppy IPA or light lager complements the crispy texture and hearty fillings of pizza rolls.

For another hearty snack to serve alongside pizza rolls, explore this Cheesy Gordita Crunch recipe for a taco-inspired treat.

Elevating Your Air Fryer Game

If you love the convenience and versatility of air frying, here are additional ways to level up your air fryer expertise:

1. Multi-Item Cooking

Use your air fryer to prepare multiple snacks simultaneously. For example, pizza rolls and Corn Nuggets can cook together as long as they have similar cooking times.

2. Experiment with Settings

Different air fryers have varied heat and airflow configurations. Test different temperature settings for optimal crispiness in your snacks.

3. Reimagine Leftovers

Use leftover pizza rolls creatively by slicing them into pieces and incorporating them into a pasta bake or salad for a unique twist.

If you’re curious about additional air fryer snacks, try these Bagel Chips for a crunchy alternative.

Hosting a Pizza Roll Party

Turn your air fryer pizza rolls into the highlight of a themed party. Here’s how to make your gathering memorable:

1. Create a Pizza Roll Bar

Set up a DIY station where guests can fill and wrap their own pizza rolls. Provide various toppings, sauces, and wrappers, such as egg roll skins, wonton wrappers, or even tortillas.

2. Offer Themed Dips

Label each dipping sauce creatively. For example:

“Marinara Madness”
“Cheesy Lava Dip”
“Garlic Geyser Sauce”

3. Decorate with a Pizza Theme

Add fun decorations like checkered tablecloths, pizza-themed plates, and miniature pizza boxes for serving.

For other party food ideas, check out this Halloween Recipe Collection featuring spooky and festive snacks.

A Nutritional Look at Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

While pizza rolls are an indulgent snack, they can be balanced with thoughtful ingredient choices and serving sizes. Here’s how to make them a bit healthier:

1. Use Whole-Grain Wrappers

Opt for whole-grain egg roll or wonton wrappers to increase fiber content.

2. Load Up on Veggies

Incorporate diced bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or onions to add vitamins and nutrients.

3. Lighten the Cheese

Use reduced-fat mozzarella or a blend of low-fat cheeses to cut calories while maintaining flavor.

For more ideas on lightened-up snacks, explore this Ultimate Guide to Gluten-Free Breakfast Options, which includes balanced and creative recipe ideas.

Beyond Pizza Rolls: Exploring Air Fryer Recipes

If you’ve mastered pizza rolls and are ready to expand your air fryer repertoire, here are some exciting recipes to try next:

1. Chicken Wings

Cook crispy chicken wings in your air fryer with minimal oil. Toss them in your favorite sauces, from buffalo to teriyaki.

2. Vegetable Chips

Slice sweet potatoes, zucchini, or kale into thin pieces, season them, and air fry for a crunchy, guilt-free snack.

3. Breakfast Items

Whip up Mini Pancakes or breakfast tacos for a morning treat that’s quick and easy.

Fun Facts About Pizza Rolls

Did you know pizza rolls were invented by Jeno Paulucci, who also created the iconic brand “Totino’s”? Initially marketed as a frozen convenience food in the 1960s, pizza rolls have since become a staple in American households, beloved for their customizable flavors and ease of preparation.

If you’re fascinated by food origins, explore the history of cheesy gorditas, another inventive snack that gained cult popularity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I cook pizza rolls in the air fryer without preheating it?

While preheating the air fryer isn’t always necessary, it helps achieve a crispier texture, especially for frozen pizza rolls. Preheating ensures the pizza rolls start cooking immediately and evenly.

How long do homemade pizza rolls last in the freezer?

Homemade pizza rolls can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cook them directly from frozen without thawing to prevent sogginess.

What other fillings can I use for homemade pizza rolls?

Get creative with your fillings! You can try BBQ chicken, buffalo chicken, or a vegetarian option with roasted vegetables. The possibilities are endless, and the air fryer will ensure they all come out crispy and delicious.

Wrapping It Up: The Air Fryer Advantage

From quick cooking times to healthier results, air frying pizza rolls offers an unbeatable combination of convenience and flavor. Whether you’re a fan of store-bought classics or prefer the creative freedom of homemade versions, these crispy, gooey bites are sure to satisfy.

Pair your pizza rolls with exciting sides, dips, and beverages to create a complete snack spread. Experiment with fillings, try new air fryer recipes, and turn your kitchen into a hub of creativity and deliciousness.