Crispy Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Golden bites of pizza bliss in just a few minutes. Snacks .

Crispy, cheesy pizza rolls made in the air fryer—fast, tasty, and perfect for parties or a cozy night in.

Published: February 24, 2026
Share:
Jump to Recipe Pin It
Crispy Air Fryer Pizza Rolls | Evlin Ardelo's Blog - Life, Style & Adventures
The concept of bite‑size pizza traces back to Italian street vendors who sold small, portable pies to workers on the go. Over time, these miniatures evolved into the frozen snack aisles of modern supermarkets, especially in the United States where convenience meets comfort. By introducing the air fryer, a kitchen gadget born from the desire for healthier fried foods, the classic pizza roll gets a new lease of life—crisped without excess oil, yet retaining the beloved melty cheese and tangy tomato notes.

Why You'll Love It

  • - Ready in under ten minutes, perfect for sudden cravings
  • - No oil splatter, just a clean kitchen
  • - Cheesy, savory, and satisfying bite every time
  • - Easily customizable with your favorite fillings

*"These rolls are my go‑to party starter—crispy, cheesy, and ready in a flash!"*

Essential Ingredient Guide

  • Pizza dough or pre‑made dough circles: Choose a dough that’s pliable; fresh refrigerated dough gives the best rise and texture.
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese: A medium‑shred melts evenly; avoid pre‑packed low‑moisture blends for a gooey center.
  • Pizza sauce: A simple marinara adds bright acidity; you can thin it slightly to avoid soggy rolls.
  • Seasoned pepperoni or turkey ham: Adds a salty bite; cut into small pieces so they fit inside the roll.
  • Parmesan cheese: Sprinkling a little on top before air frying gives a fragrant, golden crust.
  • Olive oil spray: A light mist helps the rolls achieve that perfect crunch without deep‑frying.

Complete Cooking Process

  • Ingredient Readiness:

    Gather dough, cheese, sauce, and toppings. Pat the dough dry and have all components within arm’s reach.

  • Flavor Development:

    Combine sauce and a pinch of oregano; this mix will seep into the dough during cooking, deepening the flavor.

  • Texture Control:

    Seal each roll tightly, then give a quick spray of oil; this creates a uniform, crunchy exterior.

  • Finishing Touches:

    After air frying, dust with fresh parmesan and a dash of dried basil for aroma.

  • Serving Timing:

    Serve immediately while the cheese is still molten and the crust is hot.

  • Pro Tips

    • Pre‑heat the air fryer for a crispier finish
    • Avoid overcrowding the basket; cook in batches if needed
    • Let rolls rest one minute before biting to prevent cheese splatter

    These little adjustments make a big difference. I remember the first time I tried them—there was a moment of anticipation as the timer ticked down, and the first bite was pure comfort. The gentle scent of toasted dough and melted cheese filled the kitchen, reminding me that sometimes the simplest snacks bring the most joy. So, take a breath, enjoy the process, and let the air fryer do its quiet magic.

Cooking Crispy Air Fryer Pizza Rolls | Evlin Ardelo's Blog - Life, Style & Adventures

The essence of the dish:

The magic lies in the contrast—crisped edges meet a soft, cheesy heart, while the hint of tomato sauce adds a bright, savory note.

A fun fact or historical angle:

Did you know the first frozen pizza roll appeared in the 1950s, marketed as a quick lunch for busy families? Today, the air fryer gives it a health‑forward makeover.

Flavor or sensory focus:

Expect a warm, buttery aroma as they cook, a crisp snap when you bite, followed by the comforting melt of mozzarella and a whisper of oregano.

You Must Know

  • Use a light oil spray for optimal crunch
  • Seal rolls tightly to prevent leaks
  • Adjust time for larger or smaller rolls

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I freeze the rolls ahead of time?

Yes, arrange them on a tray, freeze solid, then transfer to a zip‑top bag; air fry directly from frozen.

→ What temperature should I use?

Set the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for a golden exterior without overcooking the center.

→ Can I use gluten‑free dough?

Absolutely—just follow the same shaping steps; gluten‑free dough may need a slightly longer cook.

→ How do I prevent the cheese from leaking?

Seal the edges well and chill the rolls for a few minutes before air frying; the cheese firms up.

→ What side dishes pair well?

A simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette or a cool cucumber dip balances the richness.

→ Can I add vegetables?

Finely diced bell peppers or mushrooms work nicely; sauté them first to remove excess moisture.

Chef's Tips

If using frozen pre‑made dough, let it thaw slightly for easier handling.,For an extra crunchy top, brush with a tiny amount of melted butter before cooking.,These rolls reheat well in the air fryer; just add 2 minutes to restore crispness.

Nutrition Facts

per serving

250

Calories

10g

Protein

30g

Carbs

9g

Fat

Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 480mg

Taste Profile

🍯 Sweet
Low
🧂 Salty
Medium
🌶️ Spicy
None
🍋 Sour
Low
🍖 Umami
High

Savory and cheesy with a hint of tomato acidity

Ingredient Substitutions

Don't have an ingredient? Try these alternatives

Pizza dough Gluten‑free pizza crust

Make sure it’s pliable; gluten‑free dough may need a short rest before shaping.

Turkey ham Cooked diced chicken breast

Provides lean protein with a mild flavor; no extra seasoning needed.

Recipe Variations

Try these delicious twists on the original

Spicy Version

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce and include sliced jalapeños for a subtle kick.

Mediterranean Style

Swap turkey ham for feta cubes, add chopped olives, and finish with a drizzle of olive oil and oregano.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learn from others' mistakes for perfect results

  • Overcrowding the basket, which leads to uneven crispness ...
  • Using too much sauce, causing soggy dough ...
  • Not sealing the rolls tightly, allowing cheese to leak ...

Meal Prep & Storage

Make Ahead Tips

Roll and freeze the assembled pizza rolls on a tray; transfer to a freezer bag and air fry from frozen when ready.

Leftover Ideas

Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3‑4 minutes to restore crispness without drying out.

Perfect Pairings

Serve this with...

A crisp sparkling water with a hint of citrus Fresh garden salad with lemon vinaigrette Homemade garlic aioli for dipping

Cooking Timeline

0-5 min

Gather and measure all ingredients; pre‑heat the air fryer.

5-10 min

Cut dough, fill, and seal each roll.

10-15 min

Arrange rolls in the basket, spray lightly, and start air‑frying.

15-20 min

Flip rolls halfway, finish cooking, then garnish with Parmesan.

20-25 min

Plate and serve immediately with dipping sauce.

Crispy Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Crispy Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

A quick, crowd‑pleasing snack of golden, cheesy pizza rolls that come out perfectly crisp and hot from the air fryer, ready in minutes for any gathering.

Author: Lily_Harper

Timing

Prep Time

15 Minutes

Cook Time

10 Minutes

Total Time

25 Minutes

Recipe Details

Category: Snacks
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American
Yield: 4 Servings Servings
Dietary: None

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 01 1 package refrigerated pizza dough (about 12 oz)
  • 02 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 03 1/2 cup pizza sauce
  • 04 1/4 cup finely chopped turkey ham
  • 05 1 tablespoon olive oil spray
  • 06 2 teaspoons grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Add‑Ons

  • 01 1/4 cup sliced black olives
  • 02 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
  • 03 A pinch of dried oregano

Instructions

Step 01

Pre‑heat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C); this helps the rolls start crisping right away.

Step 02

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough and cut into 3‑inch circles using a cutter or glass.

Step 03

Place a teaspoon of pizza sauce in the center of each circle, then add a sprinkle of mozzarella, a few pieces of turkey ham, and any optional fillings.

Step 04

Fold the dough over the fillings, pinching the edges to seal completely; you may wet a fingertip with water to help the seal.

Step 05

Lightly spray each roll with olive oil and arrange them in a single layer in the air‑fryer basket, leaving space between each.

Step 06

Air fry for 8‑10 minutes, turning halfway, until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.

Step 07

Remove, sprinkle with Parmesan and a pinch of oregano, then let rest one minute before serving.

Notes & Tips

  • 1 If using frozen pre‑made dough, let it thaw slightly for easier handling.
  • 2 For an extra crunchy top, brush with a tiny amount of melted butter before cooking.
  • 3 These rolls reheat well in the air fryer; just add 2 minutes to restore crispness.

Tools You'll Need

  • Air fryer

  • Rolling pin

  • Circular cutter or glass

  • Small bowl for sauce

  • Pastry brush

  • Silicone spatula

Must-Know Tips

  • Don't overcrowd the basket; cook in batches for even browning ...
  • Let the rolls rest briefly after cooking to set the cheese ...
  • Taste the sauce before filling; adjust seasoning if needed ...

Professional Secrets

  • Room temperature dough ensures a uniform rise ...
  • A quick oil mist creates a golden crust without excess fat ...
  • Turning the rolls halfway guarantees consistent crispness ...
Lily_Harper

Recipe by

Lily_Harper

From crispy bites to soft nibbles, I’m all about snack-time happiness made simple and delicious.

Get Delicious Recipes Weekly

Join 25,000+ home cooks getting our best recipes straight to their inbox.

Free forever • No spam • Unsubscribe anytime