If you love quick, tasty snacks that are crispy on the outside and ooey-gooey on the inside, pizza rolls are a go-to favorite. But have you tried cooking them in an air fryer? It’s hands down one of the easiest and fastest ways to get perfectly cooked pizza rolls every time. In this article, I’ll walk you through exactly how to cook pizza rolls in an air fryer, share some tips for the crispiest results, and even suggest a few fun twists to elevate this classic snack.
Why Cook Pizza Rolls in an Air Fryer?
Air fryers have become kitchen superheroes for good reason. They cook food quickly, evenly, and with little to no oil, making them a healthier alternative to deep frying. When it comes to pizza rolls, air frying gives you:
– A crispy, golden-brown exterior
– Melty, cheesy filling inside
– Faster cooking time than ovens or toaster ovens
– Less mess and no need to preheat a big oven
Unlike baking or deep frying, air frying pizza rolls means you get that perfect crunch without the greasy aftermath.
What You’ll Need
– Frozen pizza rolls (Totino’s is a popular choice, but any brand works)
– Your favorite dipping sauce (marinara, ranch, or even garlic butter)
– Optional: fresh parsley or parmesan for garnish
Step-by-Step: How to Cook Pizza Rolls in an Air Fryer
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. This ensures your pizza rolls start cooking immediately and evenly.
2. Arrange the Pizza Rolls
Place the frozen pizza rolls in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding so the hot air can circulate properly, which is key to getting them crispy.
3. Cook and Flip
Air fry the pizza rolls for 6 to 8 minutes. Halfway through cooking (around 3-4 minutes), give the basket a good shake or flip the rolls to brown them evenly on all sides.
4. Check for Crispness
Pizza rolls should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. If you want them extra crispy, you can air fry for an additional minute or two, but watch closely to avoid burning.
5. Let Cool and Serve
Remove the pizza rolls and let them cool for 1-2 minutes before serving. This helps prevent burning your mouth on the hot filling. Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan if you like, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Pro Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Pizza Rolls
– Use Parchment Paper: Lining your air fryer basket with parchment paper can make cleanup easier and prevent sticking.
– Don’t Overcrowd: Cooking in batches if needed ensures every roll crisps up nicely.
– Add a Flavor Boost: Toss cooked pizza rolls in garlic butter and parmesan for a delicious upgrade.
– Try Homemade: For a fun twist, make your own pizza rolls with wonton wrappers and your favorite fillings.
– Serve Creatively: Pair with other finger foods like tater tots or jalapeño poppers for a snack board.
Common Questions
How long do pizza rolls take in an air fryer?
Typically, 6 to 8 minutes at 380°F is perfect. Adjust slightly based on your air fryer model.
Can you cook frozen pizza rolls directly in the air fryer?
Yes! No need to thaw. Just place them frozen in the basket and cook as directed.
What dipping sauces go best with air fryer pizza rolls?
Marinara sauce is classic, but ranch, garlic butter, or even a spicy sriracha mayo work great.
Can I add toppings?
Absolutely! Sprinkle parmesan, red pepper flakes, or chopped bacon on top after cooking for extra flavor.
Pizza rolls in the air fryer are a game-changer for snack time-crispy, cheesy, and ready in minutes. Whether you’re feeding kids after school or craving a quick bite, this method is your new best friend.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked pizza rolls!